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Citrine
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Citrine Golden
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Citrine Lemon
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Citrine Madeira
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One of the most affordable gemstones on the market, citrine is a golden yellow member of quartz family (same as Amethyst) which takes its name from "citron", the French word for lemon. Citrine is the birthstone for November.
In former times Citrine was used as a protective talisman against the plague, bad skin and evil thoughts, and as a charm against snake bites and other venomous reptiles. It is also believed to symbolize happiness, aid digestion, remove toxins from the body, and be useful in the treatment of depression, constipation and diabetes.
Citrine does appear naturally but most commercial citrine is the result of heating amethyst. Colors range from pale yellow to yellowish-brown and "Madeira" red, after the color of the wine. Traditionally the Madeira shades were valued higher but these days many people prefer the bright lemony shades which mix better with pastel colors, which is a fashion thing.