Citrine Tower / 40g
Citrine is a beautiful and popular gemstone known for its warm, yellow to orange hues. Here’s a detailed overview:
### **1. What is Citrine?**
- Citrine is a variety of **quartz** (SiO₂) colored by traces of iron, giving it a range of yellow, gold, and orange-brown tones.
- Its name comes from the French word *"citron"* (lemon), referencing its lemon-yellow color.
- Natural citrine is rare; most commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.
### **2. Colors & Varieties**
- **Pale Yellow to Golden Yellow** – The most common shades.
- **Orange to Reddish-Brown** – Sometimes called "Madeira citrine" (resembling Madeira wine).
- **Lemon Citrine** – A lighter, more translucent yellow.
### **3. Sources (Where is it Found?)**
- **Major Sources:** Brazil (largest producer), Bolivia, Madagascar, Spain, Russia, and the U.S. (North Carolina).
- **Notable Variety:** "Ametrine" – A rare combination of citrine and amethyst from Bolivia.
### **4. Metaphysical & Healing Properties (Beliefs)**
- Known as the **"Merchant’s Stone"** or **"Success Stone"**, believed to attract wealth and prosperity.
- Associated with **confidence, creativity, and positivity**.
- Some believe it aids digestion, metabolism, and detoxification (though not scientifically proven).
### **5. Uses in Jewelry & Decor**
- Popular in rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets.
- Often cut in faceted shapes (like oval, round, or emerald cuts) to enhance brilliance.
- Used as a **November birthstone** and a traditional gift for the **13th wedding anniversary**.
### **6. Durability & Care**
- **Mohs Hardness: 7** (durable for daily wear but can scratch if mishandled).
- Clean with warm, soapy water; avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged sunlight (may fade color).
### **7. Natural vs. Treated Citrine**
- **Natural Citrine:** Pale yellow, often found in smaller sizes (rare and more expensive).
- **Heat-Treated Citrine:** Most commercial citrine is amethyst or smoky quartz heated to turn yellow/orange. This is stable and widely accepted in the market.