Crystal of the week: Citrine

 The Radiant World of Citrine: The Golden Gemstone of Abundance

Correspondences

The Sun

Aries, Gemini, Leo and Libra

Element: Fire

Chakra: third eye, solar plexus, sacral and root

Citrine, with its warm golden hues reminiscent of sunlight and autumn leaves, is one of the most beloved gemstones in the world. As a variety of quartz, it captivates jewelers, collectors, and crystal enthusiasts alike. Known as the “Merchant’s Stone” or “Stone of Abundance,” citrine has a rich history, fascinating geological origins, and profound metaphysical associations. Let’s take a look at this important and beautiful crystal.

Natural citrine forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, often in pegmatite veins or hydrothermal deposits, under conditions involving heat and silica-rich fluids.

Natural citrine is relatively rare, typically exhibiting pale yellow, champagne, or smoky golden tones. Major sources include Brazil (especially Minas Gerais), Madagascar, Zambia, Russia, and Bolivia. In Bolivia, citrine can occur alongside amethyst in the same crystal, forming the bicolor gem known as ametrine.

However, much of the citrine on the market today is not entirely natural in color. Most commercial citrine is produced by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz, which alters iron oxides to create vibrant yellow to orange-red shades. This process mimics natural geothermal heating but is done artificially at temperatures around 450–900°C. Heat-treated citrine often shows deeper, more uniform colors with possible white bases (from original amethyst), while true natural citrine has subtler, more varied tones and rarely forms in large geodes or clusters.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Citrine’s history dates back to ancient civilizations. The name derives from the French “citron,” meaning lemon, reflecting its sunny color—first recorded in English around 1385. In ancient Greece and Rome, yellow quartz varieties were used for intaglios, jewelry, and talismans. Romans associated it with Mercury, the god of commerce, and carved it into seals.

During the Hellenistic period (300–150 BCE), it adorned decorative items, and in the Victorian era, Scottish jewelry featured large citrines in kilt pins and brooches. The Art Deco era between the World Wars saw citrine in elaborate pieces worn by Hollywood stars like Greta Garbo.

Historically, citrine was often confused with topaz due to similar colors, leading to names like “gold topaz” or “Madeira topaz.” It was believed to protect against snake venom, evil thoughts, and plague. As the November birthstone (sharing with topaz), it symbolizes prosperity and joy.

Metaphysical Properties and Healing Beliefs

Citrine works very well with the Solar Plexus chakra. For self-esteem, confidence-boosting, and bringing about that positive attitude. I pulled this card today from my Mermaid deck. Positive Energy.

Citrine has a deep connection with Mother Earth. When working with this stone our entire lower chakra becomes actively engaged and rooted in Mother Earth

In crystal healing and metaphysics, citrine is celebrated for its uplifting energy. Dubbed the “success stone,” it is thought to attract wealth, prosperity, and positive outcomes—merchants traditionally placed it in cash registers. Associated with the solar plexus chakra, it promotes personal power, confidence, creativity, and mental clarity.

Unlike most crystals, citrine is said to be self-cleansing, transmuting negative energy rather than absorbing it. It encourages optimism, dissipates fear, and supports manifestation. Some varieties, like smoky citrine, blend grounding (from smoky quartz) with abundance energies.

While these properties are rooted in folklore and modern New Age practices, many users report feeling energized and motivated when working with citrine

Modern Uses and Appeal

Today, citrine is widely used in jewelry—faceted into rings, necklaces, earrings, and beads—for its affordability and vibrant color. Raw points, clusters, and tumbled stones are popular for decoration and meditation.