A GUIDE TO THE CITRINE GEMSTONE
The citrine gemstone is a member of the Quartz family. It is associated with the month of November. Its name is derived from the color of the stone, which range from a more yellow to a brownish red radiance. Because there are not many yellow gemstones, the citrine is still one of the more sought after crystals of this color variety.
HISTORY
This particular gemstone had its big break in the 1930s, seeing a significant boom of demand in Europe during this time.
This large supply, which originated in Brazil, could not have come at a better time, with the entire social structure of Europe experiencing an upheaval, and jewelry demand increased dramatically in all social circles.
Before citrine made its entrance, topaz was used most often as the gold-colored gemstone of choice, so it wasn’t long before citrine jewelry (coined the golden or smoky topaz) made its way into the hearts of women all over the country.
It wasn’t long after its introduction and subsequent high demand that jewelers were cutting them at high rates of speed, creating fine citrine rings, citrine earrings, and they even made their way into cufflinks and other accent pieces for men as well as women.
After mass production of this gem ensued for decades, the citrine eventually fell victim to the supply exceeding the demand, causing a decrease in value over time. Though the gem is now fairly inexpensive, its honey-like color still makes a fine accent piece to multiple styles and outfits, and has even seen a significant increase in popularity, as its price tag allows for use of much larger stones in pieces like necklaces and rings.
Though they do occur in nature, often in order to create a gem in this likeness is through a process known as “burning.” In order to accomplish this, the quartz is carefully heated to a temperature ranging from 470 to 560 degrees Fahrenheit and requires a great deal of time and experience to perfect the process.
POTENTIAL HEALING PROPERTIES
In some spiritual circles, the citrine has a unique effect on the energies of the human body. It is said to affect primarily the energies of the personal space as well as combating any potential negative energies that could contaminate the body. Some people who have purchased citrine jewelry have commented on their overall mental clarity and peace of mind improves significantly while wearing the gems for long periods of time.
The burning of the gem to obtain its unique color is said to be not unlike a cleansing effect, so the link between the cleansing of the stone and the cleansing of a person’s energy holds a certain level of coincidence, even if it is a supernatural one.