Citrine

Citrine

Citrine is a captivating gemstone celebrated for its warm, golden hues and remarkable clarity. As a variety of quartz, the name “citrine” comes from the Latin word “citrina,” meaning “yellow,” reflecting its vibrant color.

Variety and Category

• Mineral Family: Quartz (Tectosilicate)
• Chemical Formula: SiO₂ (Silicon Dioxide)
• Crystal System: Trigonal
• Mohs Hardness: 7

Citrine’s durability makes it suitable for various types of jewelry, and its trigonal crystal structure contributes to its distinct appearance.

Color and Value of Citrine

Citrine exhibits a spectrum of colors from pale yellow to deep orange. The most prized specimens display a saturated yellow to reddish-orange hue without brownish tints. The coloration results from trace amounts of iron within the quartz structure.

Several factors influence the value of these quartzes:

• Color: Saturated yellows and reddish oranges are more valuable.
• Clarity: Stones with higher transparency and fewer inclusions command higher prices.
• Cut: Precision in cutting enhances the stone’s brilliance and color display.
• Carat Weight: Larger stones are rarer and thus more valuable.

Notably, most commercial citrines comes from heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz, since natural citrine is rare.

Optical Properties

• Luster: Vitreous
• Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553
• Birefringence: 0.009
• Pleochroism: Weak; varies with color

Citrine’s brilliance and transparency make it a favorite among gem enthusiasts. Its relatively high refractive index contributes to its sparkling appearance when properly cut.

Common Cuts and Applications

Citrine is typically faceted into shapes such as oval, pear, cushion, and emerald cuts to maximize its brilliance. It is commonly used in various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, pendants, and bracelets. Due to its good hardness, it is suitable for daily wear.

Sri Lankan Uniqueness

Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, is renowned for producing high-quality citrines. The country’s gem-rich regions, particularly around Ratnapura, yield these crystals celebrated for their exceptional clarity and vibrant colors. Gemstone buyers around the world esteem Sri Lankan citrine for its superior quality and natural beauty.

At Luxiris Gems (PVT) Ltd., we take immense pride in offering authentic Sri Lankan citrine, each meticulously selected for its exceptional beauty and quality. Our commitment to ethical sourcing and excellence ensures that our clients receive gemstones that are not only stunning but also steeped in the rich heritage of Sri Lanka’s gemological legacy. Still looking for the right gem for you? Contact us and we’ll find your dream gemstone.