Buying guide

Citrine

Honey and Madeira tones command more than pale lemon. Because large clean crystals are common, citrine is one of the best values in gemstones for statement-sized stones above 10 carats.

Citrine at a glance

Mineral family: Quartz
Chemical formula: SiO2
Mohs hardness: 7
Refractive index: 1.544 - 1.553
Specific gravity: 2.65
Crystal system: Trigonal
Colours: yellow, golden, orange
Birthstone month: November
Anniversary: 13th
Typical treatment: Much commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst. Natural citrine tends toward a paler, smokier yellow; deep orange-red material is usually treated.
In stock now: 13 stones from $77.50

What drives the price

Honey and Madeira tones command more than pale lemon. Because large clean crystals are common, citrine is one of the best values in gemstones for statement-sized stones above 10 carats.

In one line: Colour depth (honey/Madeira premium), size for statement pieces.

Treatment

Much commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst. Natural citrine tends toward a paler, smokier yellow; deep orange-red material is usually treated.

Any seller unwilling to state treatment in writing is telling you something. Every listing on this site states it.

Durability and daily wear

Easy to live with. Warm soapy water. Avoid prolonged high heat, which can shift colour.

Mohs 7, trigonal crystal system, specific gravity 2.65.

Tradition and meaning

Known as the merchant's stone, associated with abundance, confidence and manifestation. Worked with at the solar plexus.

Birthstone for November. Associated with Sagittarius and Gemini. Anniversary stone: 13th.

Frequently asked

Is my citrine natural or heated amethyst?

Most deep orange citrine on the market is heat-treated amethyst, and this is standard, permanent and accepted. Natural citrine is usually a lighter, slightly smoky yellow. Neither is a lesser stone, but disclosure matters for collectors.

What is the difference between honey and lemon citrine?

These are colour descriptions, not species. Honey citrine is a warm golden-brown, lemon is a bright pale yellow, and Madeira is a deep reddish-orange. Honey and Madeira are generally more valuable.

Can citrine be worn every day?

Yes. At Mohs 7 with no cleavage, citrine handles daily wear well. It is one of the more practical choices for a large statement ring.