Read all about Citrine and different kinds of rocks and minerals here at the Stone Goddess.

Citrine is a silicon oxide mineral that is found in igneous rocks, pegmatite and alpine or hydrothermal veins. It is the yellow member of the quartz family and grows as large crystals or Druze. The color ranges from pale to golden yellow or orange to brown, and is caused by ferric iron oxides in the mineral. Natural Citrine is rare, and most Citrine available is the result of heat-treating of amethyst or smoky quartz to produce the Citrine hues. This process has been done for centuries, beginning in the Middle Ages.

Citrine was one of the stones used in the Breastplate of the High Priest. It was also highly regarded by Celtic and Scottish peoples. The name Citrine comes from the Latin citrus or citron, for the yellow color. It was not until 1546, however, that "Citrine" was identified as only the yellow variety of quartz. Before this time, many yellow stones were called Citrine. This confusion continues to the present day, as Citrine has a strong resemblance to Golden Topaz. It has been sold under names such as Madeira Topaz and Bahia or Rio Grande Topaz. These are all a buyer must be wary of this deceit. The beautiful warm glow of Citrine makes lovely jewelry and stone carvings.

Citrine phantoms are rare and interesting crystals, as is Ametrine, a mineral that combines the royal purple of Amethyst with the warm glow of Citrine. Brazil is the main source of Citrine today, while some comes from Madagascar.

Metaphysical Properties: Citrine's bright glow, like the golden rays of the sun, helps ease depression and create a cheerful mood. It disperses negative energies, and is useful for clearing the aura and aligning the Chakras. It needs no cleansing. A large crystal or cluster in the home or workplace can help create a happy, abundant energy flow. A stone for prosperity, it is a good one for merchants, or to use with affirmations for personal wealth and self-worth. It inspires creativity, strengthens the intellect and aids memory. It helps shed light on a matter so decisions can be made with confidence and ease. It boosts self-confidence and willpower, and helps dispel negative thoughts and fears that may predispose one to illness. It may also protect from nightmares. It may help the liver, kidneys and digestive or urinary tracts and lymph system to remove toxins from the body. Citrine's gentle energy combines well with other stones.

Chakras: Solar Plexus and Crown.