Birthstones - November  (Topaz or Citrine)

Citrine

Chemical Composition: SiO2, Silica – Silicon Dioxide
Mohs Hardness: 7
Specific Gravity: 2.6 - 2.7
Refractive Index: 1.544-1.553

Citrine is a birthstone for the month of November, as well as the gemstone representing the 13th wedding anniversary. Yellow topaz is an alternative birthstone for November.
 
The name citrine is derived from the French word "citron," meaning “lemon,” and the color of the gemstone is associated with light-heartedness and cheerfulness. Citrine is often given as a symbol of hope, youth, health and fidelity. In ancient times, people carried citrine as a protection against snake venom and evil thoughts, and it was one of the stones often found on the breast plates of high priests of old.
 
Citrine is any quartz crystal or cluster that is yellow or orange in color, and its color may range from the soft hues of golden champagne to the rich, deep color of a fine Madeira wine. In natural citrine, this color is produced by traces of iron locked within the crystal structure. However, since natural citrine is quite rare, amethyst quartz is often heated to temperatures of more than 878 degrees Fahrenheit or is irradiated to change its purple color to the golden yellow to yellow-orange of citrine. In the past, darker colored citrine was generally the most valued on the market, but today, bright lemony shades which mix better with pastel colors seem to be preferred.

Because heated amethyst becomes citrine, whether through natural or synthetic processes, and because the processes do not always produce uniform results, mixing of amethyst’s purple color and citrine’s yellow can occur within a single crystal. This results in ametrine. Natural occurrences come from the Anahi mine in Bolivia.

Most of the world’s supply of citrine comes from the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, particularly from the Serra mine. Significant deposits of citrine are also found in Bolivia, Madagascar, Russia, and the United States. Its broad range of colors and outstanding affordability make citrine one of the most popular and desirable colored gemstones in the world. It is not uncommon to find beautiful faceted specimens that are over 10 carats in weight, especially in lighter shades of yellow.
 

Care & Cleaning of Citrine

The beautiful color of your citrine will last indefinitely, if the gem is properly cared for. Because it is somewhat brittle, citrine should be protected from sharp blows and from being scratched. Some citrine, whether treated or not, may fade in color if exposed to heat or to sunlight for extended periods. Because of this, citrine should not be worn while sunbathing or using a tanning bed. Citrine can be cleaned with most commercial jewelry cleaners or mild soap and water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning. We suggest that you bring your jewelry to Gillespie Jewelers at least three times each year for a complimentary inspection and cleaning.