Art Deco Citrine Ring, Image courtesy of 1stdibs

The quartz variety of gemstones has been used in in jewelry for thousands of years; Citrine can be found in many antique settings as well as a mainstay in our modern jewelry trends.  Citrine is a transparent yellow variety of quartz and comes in the happy colors of citrus fruits.   In fact, Citrine's name is derived from the French word “citron,” which translates to “lemon.” Citrine’s colors range from pale to saturated yellow hues and even a deep reddish-orange.  Citrine has an attractive sunny coloring and enjoys the affordability and durability of most other gemstones in the quartz family.    

Citrine is widely available, offered in many shapes and sizes, however, natural citrine is rare.  Most of the Citrine found on the market has undergone a stable and trade accepted heat treatment.  An undesirable pale Amethyst quartz may undergo a change in color with heat treatment and become an attractive yellow Citrine quartz. The original hue of Amethyst prior to heat treatment is what will determine Citrine's ultimate color.

Carrying the powers of the sun, Citrine is said to be warm and comforting. Citrine is also believed to encourage fresh beginnings, creativity, imagination, and manifestation by stimulating and clearing the mind while bringing your soul into action!  

Enjoy your birthstone.  May it bring you all of these qualities and more.