What does real citrine look like
What Does Real Citrine Look Like?
Glistening with a vibrant golden hue, citrine is a gemstone that has captivated the eyes of many. However, with its similarity to other yellow gemstones, such as topaz and amber, distinguishing real citrine from its look-alikes can sometimes be challenging. In this article, we will explore the distinctive features of real citrine, helping you to identify this beautiful gemstone with confidence.
Understanding the Appearance of Real Citrine
Real citrine is known for its rich, golden yellow color, which is a result of natural irradiation. This color can range from a light lemon yellow to a deep, amber hue. Unlike other gemstones, citrine is almost always transparent and free of inclusions, making it a highly sought-after gem for jewelry.
One of the key characteristics of real citrine is its hardness. It belongs to the quartz family and has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, which is comparable to quartz. This hardness makes citrine a durable gemstone that is suitable for everyday wear.
Identifying Real Citrine: A Closer Look
When examining a citrine, there are several features that can help you determine its authenticity:
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Color: Real citrine exhibits a distinct golden yellow color that is consistent throughout the stone. This color is often more intense in larger stones and can vary slightly depending on the lighting.
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Transparency: As mentioned earlier, real citrine is almost always transparent, with a clarity that allows light to pass through the stone with ease.
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Cut: The cut of a citrine can also provide clues about its authenticity. Real citrine is often cut in standard shapes, such as rounds, ovals, and rectangles. A well-cut citrine will have good brilliance and fire, reflecting light and showcasing its golden hue.
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Luster: Real citrine has a vitreous luster, which is glass-like and smooth. This luster is a result of the gemstone’s crystalline structure and contributes to its overall appearance.
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Hardness: To test the hardness of a citrine, you can use a simple hardness tester or perform the scratch test. Real citrine should scratch glass but be scratched by a harder material, such as quartz or topaz.
Conclusion
Real citrine is a beautiful and valuable gemstone that is easy to distinguish from its look-alikes when you know what to look for. By examining its color, transparency, cut, luster, and hardness, you can confidently identify this stunning gemstone. Whether you are a gem enthusiast or simply looking to purchase a piece of jewelry, understanding the appearance of real citrine will help you make an informed decision.
