Citrine
The Merchant's Stone, a symbol of wealth and sunshine.
📜 History and Stories
The English name Citrine is derived from the French word citron, meaning "lemon". Since ancient times, its warm color has been associated with the sun's energy and wealth. It was carved into rings and ornaments in ancient Greek and Roman times.
During the Victorian era, yellow crystals were favored by the Queen and became an important decoration in Scottish brooches and jewelry. It was also known as the "Merchant's Stone" due to its legendary ability to bring wealth, and many merchants liked to display it in their stores to attract business.
🌍 Major Origin Distribution
The vast majority of topazes on the market are heat-treated from amethysts or smoky crystals, mainly from Brazil. Natural, untreated topaz is relatively rare, and important sources include Bolivia, Spain, Madagascar and the Ural Mountains in Russia. The Anasi Mine in Bolivia is famous for producing both amethyst and topaz, the "purple topaz".
📍 Explore the main production area: Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil🔬 Gemological Properties
| characterization | descriptive |
|---|---|
| Mineral Types | Quartz |
| Chemical composition | Silicon dioxide `(SiO₂)` |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| index of refraction | 1.544 - 1.553 |
| Color Causes | Trace amounts of iron |
Yellow Topaz vs.
🔥 Heat Treatment Secrets
Natural yellow crystals are usually light in color, and most of the richly colored yellow crystals on the market are made from amethysts or smoky crystals that have been heat-treated (about 400-500 degrees Celsius). This process is permanent and widely accepted by the industry and produces beautiful colors ranging from golden yellow to reddish orange.
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amethyst
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Heating
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Wong Jing
💰 Different quality grades and values
The value of a yellow crystal is determined primarily by its color. Clarity is usually high, so inclusions have less of an effect on value.
1. Color
The most important factor. Highly saturated golden to reddish-orange colors (e.g., "Madeira" yellow crystals) are the most valuable.
2. Clarity
Yellow crystals are usually clean to the naked eye, and visible inclusions can diminish their value.
3. Natural vs. processed
Natural, untreated yellow crystals are rarer than heat-treated ones and are therefore more valuable.
4. Cut
A good cut maximizes its brightness and color and avoids color banding.
Different Colors of the Value Ladder
From pale lemon yellow to rich Madeira red-orange, the value of yellow crystals varies with the saturation and hue of the color. Naturally rich colors are the most valuable.
💖 Symbolism
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November Birthstone
Share with Topaz the honor of being the birthstone of November, bringing happiness and abundance.
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13th Wedding Anniversary Stone
It symbolizes sunshine, hope and happiness in marriage.
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Wealth and Success
Known as the "Stone of Wealth", it is said to attract wealth, success and all good things.
🛡️ Care and Wear
With a hardness of 7 and good durability, yellow crystals are very suitable for daily wear and are easy to maintain.
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Suitable for daily wear
Good hardness, not easy to scratch.
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Easy to clean
Warm soapy water and ultrasonic cleaning are usually safe.
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Avoid sun exposure
Prolonged exposure to the sun may cause the color to fade.
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Avoid hard contact.
Avoid storing with harder stones.
👑 celebrities and fashion
With its warm color and affordable price tag, topaz is a favorite among many celebrities. Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, and actress Angelina Jolie have all worn striking topaz jewelry, and its sunny hue always stands out on the red carpet, adding a splash of color to a look.