Citrine

Bright golden-yellow and dark brownish-red are joyful color varieties of this amethyst sister known as citrine. Sometimes amethyst and citrine occur in the same crystal, taking the name ametrine. Brazil is the main source of both amethyst and citrine, offering a wide range of options. Color: yellow, brownish-yellow, orange and reddish-yellow or cognac. The most valuable color is the fine brownish-red (cognac) and is referred to as "Rio Grande". Tone: light to dark. Very light or very dark hues are less desirable. Transparency: like the amethyst, the proper faceting will display maximum beauty. Treatment: almost all citrines are heated to permanently display their potential vivid colors. Price structure: top commercial citrines of 2 to 8 carats range from US$10 to US$20 per carat. Large and very fine cognac colors can cost more than US$30 per carat.