From the French word, for “lemon,” citrine is one of the few stones in the world that appears yellow in its natural setting. Called the light maker for its sunny color and its ability to clear the mind and spark imagination, citrine is often confused with yellow quartz or yellow topaz, but it is paler than both and can be identified by its smooth, rounded edges curved and softened as if gently worn by stream water.
Natural citrine is quite rare and has a more muted color than the rich gold variety that comes by heating amethyst or smoky quartz. Natural citrine has long been found on Isle of Arran in Scotland it adorned the handles of daggers belonging to century warriors. The British, too, were enamored with citrine. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert based their entire summer residence on incorporating this cheerful stone. Today it is quite rare but still sought after for its ability to absorb negative energies from the environment and to bring wealth and prosperity.