RED CITRINE GEMSTONE

VALUE

Determining Red Citrine Value

The value of colored gemstones is typically determined by a combination of its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. This is no different when determining what red citrine is worth. These guidelines will help you choose citrine stones for your collection.

COLOR

The most crucial factor in choosing a red citrine gem is its hue, drawing comparisons to a burning coal. Taking its color from a charge transfer between oxygen and iron during formation, red citrine is a reddish-orange jewel. This red tone is rarely seen in citrine, adding to the mystique and rarity of this gem. Red citrine should be deeply saturated with even color displayed throughout the stone.

Clarity

You’ll find that citrine stones fall under both Type I and Type II classifications. Type I gems are eye-clean, meaning inclusions cannot be viewed without the aid of 10x magnification. Type II gems may possess visible inclusions. These do not affect the value of the stone and are evidence of gems’ natural origin. When polished, red citrine takes on a glass-like shine which may also be described as a vitreous luster 

Cut

Thanks to the abundance and size of citrine rough, you’ll find this gem in a variety of shapes. Readily available in popular traditional and fancy cuts, expect to find citrine in most calibrated stone sizes. Its versatility makes it a favorite among jewelers and gemstone enthusiasts alike. The vibrant hues of citrine enhance any design, from everyday wear to statement pieces.

Carat

Citrine stones are available in a wide range of sizes, and red citrine is no exception. This variety of quartz is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to own a sizeable genuine gem, as there isn’t a significant increase for larger carat weights. Find red citrine in weights of under a carat up to several carats in size.

TREATMENT

Red Citrine Treatment

Red citrine is not naturally found in such vivid tones; instead, it is typically created by heat-treating certain varieties of amethyst or smoky quartz. Through controlled heating at high temperatures, the stone develops its rich reddish to orange hues, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and market value. This process is widely accepted in the gemstone industry, as the treatment is stable, permanent, and does not diminish the stone’s durability. Unlike surface treatments or coatings, the color change from heat is structural, meaning it will not fade under normal wear or light exposure. As a result, heat-treated red citrine remains a popular and enduring choice for jewelry.

Storage

Caring For Red Citrine

Red citrine ranks 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, providing good resistance against scratches and abrasions. With overall durability and toughness, it’s a great choice for daily wear or occasional use. However, it still requires proper care:

• Gentle Cleaning
  

  The safest way to clean red citrine is with warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and dry with a soft lint-free cloth. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, but steam cleaning should be avoided.

• Safe Storage
  

  Store red citrine jewelry in a lined jewelry box or wrap in a soft cloth. Keep it separate from other gemstones to prevent accidental scratches or damage.

• Heat & Chemical Protection
  

  Avoid exposing red citrine to high heat, as it may cause loss of color. Keep it away from stove elements, open flame, and harsh chemicals such as hydrofluoric acid and ammonium fluoride. It’s best to remove jewelry before doing household chores.

• Durability Awareness
  

  While red citrine is tough enough for regular wear, checking your jewelry settings periodically helps protect against chips, breaks, or loosening of the stone.

IDEAL CHOICE

Who Can Wear Red Citrine?

Citrine is one of the most versatile stones on the market, and red citrine is no exception. It’s popular for its versatility, making it ideal for use in traditional pieces as well as experimental designer jewelry. No one way’s best for wearing red citrine, and it finds a home equally among rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. So no matter your tastes, you can safely wear this stone as you like.

The reddish-orange hue of red citrine readily lends itself to fall color palettes, working well with any neutrals you already own. It teams up well with oranges and reds of similar tone, making it a promising selection for summer. For contrast, try pairing the gem with violet-blues or bright greens. Did you know that before modern gemology citrine was frequently mistaken for topaz? Traditional topaz displays a dusky brownish-orange of which red citrine pays homage. Citrine is also a traditional gift for the 13th wedding anniversary.

Difference

How Does Red Citrine Compare to Other Gemstones?

A Brazilian citrine, red citrine represents the upper range of deep color seen in this stone and draws the most comparison to Santa Ana Madeira Citrine. The stones stand apart due to the red undertone of red citrine.If you love fire opal, red citrine is a pleasant option for anyone who appreciates the range of color seen in the upper range of fire opal, such as crimson fire opal.

ORIGIN

Where Does Red Citrine Come From?

Finding citrine gemstones across the globe is easy. A major producer of the stone is Brazil, and citrine is sourced from across this South American country. Brazil is well-known for the quality of its minerals and gem crystals. Shop LC sources our supply of red citrine from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Rio Grande do Sul was a significant supplier of amethyst and citrine gemstones.

Our supply of red citrine was sourced from the private collection of a vendor partner. Over the course of 20 years, they assembled a stunning array of rough stone. During JCK Las Vegas 2018, our buyers handpicked from this assortment the selection we offer today. From this, only about 15 to 20 percent of finished gems were of the color known as red citrine. Since this gem is no longer actively mined, there is no guarantee of future supply, and once it’s gone, it’s gone.