Citrine is the correct name for all yellow and pale brown varieties of quartz, though it is still occasionally was sold under the name of 'topaz', often with some prefix. Fortunately this once common pernicious practice is now being abandoned. There is, of course, a considerable difference in value between these two stones, though at first sight they may look very similar. Topaz is much rarer and harder, and has a much wider and subtler range of colors.

Citrine is the most common yellow stone available. It comes mainly from various parts of Brazil and from Malagasy but it has a wide distribution. Darker brown stones are sometimes called 'cairngorm' from the Scottish mountains of that name where they were first found. The name 'moron' is sometimes applied to really dark brown stones and also to those that are cloudy and translucent, but the appellation 'smoky quartz' is preferable for the latter.

Most citrine on the market started its life as amethyst which was heated to change its color to gold, therefore citrine jewelry, as well as amethyst jewelry, must be kept away from prolonged exposure to heat or strong light. Following this precaution, citrine jewelry will last for many generations.

Shop for Citrine Stones

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karen shrader, 2007-10-29 08:33:49

i have a brooch i believe has cairngorm stones in a celtic design the central stone is at least 1.5" and 4 smaller ones around it. it appears to be silver with the only mark "made in gr britain". i would like to try to date it. i feel its earlier than 1858 when my great grandmother came from scotland. cant find any info. i have seen several similar brooches. where can i go. i also have silverware given to me from scotland and its difficult to trace them. i had pictures but will take more.

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