Citrine Jewelry

What citrine is

Citrine is the yellow to brownish orange variety of quartz, a close relative of amethyst. Its name is believed to come from the French citron, for lemon, though the color runs well beyond pale yellow into honey, marigold and a deep amber sometimes called Madeira. For centuries it was confused with topaz and sold under that name, which is one reason both stones share November. Citrine set in gold has been worn since Roman times and was a favorite in Victorian Scottish jewelry. Our citrine guide tells the full story.

Citrine, a November birthstone

Citrine shares November with topaz, and GIA lists it for the 13th wedding anniversary. Its golden tone suits autumn birthdays, and because it is affordable in generous sizes, citrine birthstone jewelry can feel more lavish than the price suggests. A pendant or a pair of studs needs no sizing. Read about the November birthstones, browse birthstones by month, or find family pieces in birthstone jewelry.

Where the golden color comes from

Natural citrine that has never been heated is uncommon; the Anahí mine in Bolivia is one of the best-known sources. According to GIA, most citrine on the market today begins as amethyst, largely from Brazil, that is heated until its purple turns gold. Both are genuine quartz, and the heated color is stable in normal wear. Every citrine in this collection is natural, mined quartz; if you want to know more about a particular stone, our concierge can tell you what we know.

How to judge citrine color

The most sought-after citrine is a saturated yellow to reddish orange without brownish tints. Paler lemon stones look fresh and modern, especially in white gold; deeper amber and Madeira tones look rich in yellow and rose gold. Citrine is usually clean to the eye, so let color and cut lead your choice, and look for a stone that stays lively rather than turning brown in low light.

Caring for citrine

Citrine rates 7 on the Mohs scale and has good toughness, so it handles regular wear in rings, earrings and pendants. It is still softer than sapphire or diamond, so store it separately. Warm, soapy water and a soft brush are always safe. An ultrasonic cleaner is usually fine, but avoid steam, because high heat can crack quartz. Our Mohs hardness scale and jewelry cleaning guide explain more.

How to choose citrine jewelry

Citrine is one of the few gems where size is not a budget question, so it is worth choosing the look you love rather than the smallest stone. A bold cocktail or channel-set ring makes the most of its warmth; delicate bars, hearts and crosses suit layering. Rose gold deepens the orange, yellow gold makes the whole piece glow, and white gold or platinum gives citrine a brighter, more contemporary edge. Rings are made to order in your size, so check the sizing guide before ordering.

Citrine Jewelry at a glance