Citrine is a mineral composed of silicon and oxygen atoms. It has a yellow to brownish-yellow color which can vary depending on its iron content. Natural Citrine is relatively rare and is typically found in Brazil, Madagascar, and Zambia. Most of the Citrines on the market are actually heated Amethysts or Smoky Quartz. In Brazil, Citrine is found in hydrothermal veins of Granite and Pegmatite. In Madagascar, Citrine is found in volcanic rocks and alluvial deposits. In Zambia, it is found in hydrothermal veins and alluvial deposits. The specific conditions of the heating process can influence the color and clarity of the Citrine. The combination of these geological factors can result in a wide range of colors and clarities, from pale yellow to deep amber. It can also range from transparent to cloudy. The most select Citrines typically have a rich, deep color and high clarity, with minimal inclusions or other internal features.
Citrine's name comes from the Latin word Citrina that literally means a pale yellow, citrus color. Since the earliest of times, Citrine was called the "sun stone," "success stone," "merchant's stone" and "money stone," because it was thought capable of holding sunlight. The Romans believed it to be the stone of Mercury, the messenger god, so it was used in many of their engravings. It is also associated with various cultural and spiritual beliefs, including those of ancient Greeks and Romans, who believed that citrine was a symbol of prosperity and happiness. It was also used medicinally for protection from snakebites.
Physically, Citrine can help support and enhance healing for the spine, digestion and elimination, as well as the metabolism. It can facilitate detoxification and stimulate circulation. It also has a reputation of being able to increase energy and drive. It is believed to relieve backache and combat depression, negative energy and problems with the liver, spleen, digestive system and the bladder. Citrine warms, cleanses, and energizes. Highly protective, it makes a great tool for transmuting negative energy and can be used as a sleep aid. It heightens self-discipline, attracting professional success and wealth. Many link it to the Solar Plexus Chakra, but it can be used to cleanse all Chakras. Citrine is the birthstone for November as well as the Zodiac sign for Scorpio. The color helps associated it with the Solar Plexus Chakra.
Abrupt temperature changes can cause citrine to fracture. Citrine can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water. It is generally safe to use ultrasonic cleaners except when the stone is dyed or treated by fracture filling. Steam cleaning is not recommended, as citrine should not be subjected to heat. Avoid prolonged exposure of citrine to intense light, which can cause color fading. Citrine can also be damaged by hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride and alkaline solutions.
Citrine's name comes from the Latin word Citrina that literally means a pale yellow, citrus color. Since the earliest of times, Citrine was called the "sun stone," "success stone," "merchant's stone" and "money stone," because it was thought capable of holding sunlight. The Romans believed it to be the stone of Mercury, the messenger god, so it was used in many of their engravings. It is also associated with various cultural and spiritual beliefs, including those of ancient Greeks and Romans, who believed that citrine was a symbol of prosperity and happiness. It was also used medicinally for protection from snakebites.
Physically, Citrine can help support and enhance healing for the spine, digestion and elimination, as well as the metabolism. It can facilitate detoxification and stimulate circulation. It also has a reputation of being able to increase energy and drive. It is believed to relieve backache and combat depression, negative energy and problems with the liver, spleen, digestive system and the bladder. Citrine warms, cleanses, and energizes. Highly protective, it makes a great tool for transmuting negative energy and can be used as a sleep aid. It heightens self-discipline, attracting professional success and wealth. Many link it to the Solar Plexus Chakra, but it can be used to cleanse all Chakras. Citrine is the birthstone for November as well as the Zodiac sign for Scorpio. The color helps associated it with the Solar Plexus Chakra.
Abrupt temperature changes can cause citrine to fracture. Citrine can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water. It is generally safe to use ultrasonic cleaners except when the stone is dyed or treated by fracture filling. Steam cleaning is not recommended, as citrine should not be subjected to heat. Avoid prolonged exposure of citrine to intense light, which can cause color fading. Citrine can also be damaged by hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride and alkaline solutions.