Birthstones can be a great way to celebrate
a special month or commemorate any special occasion, and in November, that
means the lustrous yellow glow of citrine. But what exactly is this
semiprecious gemstone, where is it found and what type of symbolism is
associated with its sunny hues?
About Citrine
About Citrine
Citrine is a rare type of quartz with a
natural yellow shade and remarkable clarity that typically lacks any visible
inclusions. The yellow coloration comes from iron compounds that subtly alter
the quartz crystal structure and can range from a very pale yellow wash to a
lemony color or even as deep as rich yellow-brown that may feature hints of
red.
The most productive source of citrines in the world is found in Brazil, but these stones are mined in many different countries, including Bolivia, Uruguay, Spain, France, Russia, Argentina, Madagascar, South Africa, Namibia and Myanmar. In the United States, citrines are mined in Colorado, North Carolina and California.
Natural citrines are quite rare, but purple
amethyst and brown smoky quartz can be heat-treated to change to a yellow
color, creating an enhanced citrine. In general, lighter shades are more likely
to be natural citrines, while heat-treated stones exhibit the darker hues.
Depending on where citrine is mined or how
the stones may be treated, it can be called by different names. Gold topaz,
burnt amethyst, Madeira topaz, Spanish topaz and safranite are all alternative
names for citrine, and these stones are also called money stone or merchant's
stone as well.
Citrine Symbolism
Citrine has many great symbolic
connections. Some ancient cultures believed citrines could be protective
against snake venom or similar toxins, helping keep one's body pure. These
stones are believed to attract wealth, abundance and prosperity, as well as
spark creativity and imagination. Citrines also help focus healing energies and
promote vitality. Their sunny color is believed to be a gift from the sun, and
citrines can enhance mental clarity, as well as exude positive energy for a
calm, soothing nature.
In addition to being the November birthstone,
citrines are also a traditional gemstone for the thirteenth wedding
anniversary, and an alternative gemstone selection for the eleventh wedding anniversary.
Citrine Rings and Jewelry
Citrine Rings and Jewelry
With their rich colors, citrines have been
popular in jewelry and ornaments for centuries. They were used in ancient
Egypt, Rome and Greece as early as 300 BC, and were very popular during the
1800s in Scottish weapon handles, kilt pins and shoulder brooches. During the
Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s, citrine was a very popular choice not
only for its bold color, but also because larger stones with hefty carat
weights are surprisingly affordable and make
powerful statements in bold jewelry. Art decoengagement rings featuring citrines cut in bold, geometric shapes are
popular even today, not only for their beauty, but because the hardness of
citrine makes it durable against scratches and scuffs so it can easily be worn
daily.
Other November Birthstones
Other November Birthstones
Despite its beauty, citrine isn't always
the right birthstone for everyone to celebrate. Fortunately, November
birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions have several gemstones to
choose from in addition to citrine. Topaz, pearl and cat's eye are also associated with November,
and they are all beautiful choices for stunning rings and other jewelry.
