Citrine is a yellow quartz known as the “merchant’s stone” because traders kept it in their cash boxes. It is traditionally linked to abundance, confidence and a positive money mindset. Here is what citrine means, its benefits, where to keep it and how to buy the real thing. For more wealth stones, see crystals for money.
Table of Contents
What is citrine?
Citrine is a variety of quartz coloured pale yellow to golden orange. Natural citrine is fairly rare. Much of the deep orange “citrine” sold today is amethyst that has been heat-treated to change its colour, which is worth knowing before you buy.
Citrine meaning
Citrine is linked to the solar plexus chakra and to the sun. In crystal practice it represents:
- Abundance and prosperity
- Optimism and joy
- Self-confidence and creativity
Citrine benefits
1. Wealth and abundance
Citrine is the classic stone for a cash locker or wallet, kept as a reminder to welcome and grow wealth.
2. Positive mindset
Its sunny colour makes citrine a favourite for people who want to stay hopeful and motivated.
3. Confidence
Citrine is worn before presentations and interviews for self-belief.
4. Creativity
Artists, writers and founders keep citrine on their desks as a creative focus stone.
These benefits are traditional beliefs. Use citrine as a support for your goals, not a guarantee.
Where to keep citrine as per Vastu
- South-east corner: the wealth zone in Vastu.
- Cash locker or wallet: a small tumbled stone.
- Work or study desk: for confidence and creativity.
How to wear citrine
Citrine is worn as a bracelet, pendant or ring. As a ring, it is traditionally worn on the index finger. People often pair it with pyrite for money.
Shop citrine bracelet or the citrine mala.
Natural vs heat-treated citrine
| Feature | Natural citrine | Heat-treated (from amethyst) |
|---|---|---|
| Colour | Pale yellow to soft honey, even | Deep orange to brownish, often darker at the tips |
| Base | Colour spread through the stone | White base with burnt-orange tips on clusters |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
Always ask your seller whether the citrine is natural or heat-treated before you buy. Read more in our guide to natural vs treated gemstones.
How to cleanse and charge citrine
- Rinse briefly under running water, or use smoke or a selenite plate.
- Charge in soft morning sunlight. Avoid hours of harsh sun, which can fade the colour.
Citrine vs pyrite
Citrine brings optimism and abundance; pyrite brings ambition and protection. Read pyrite vs citrine to choose, or see pyrite benefits.
Frequently asked questions
Which zodiac sign should wear citrine?
Citrine is commonly linked to Gemini and Leo, but in crystal practice anyone can use it.
Can citrine be kept in the bedroom?
It can, but because citrine is seen as energising, many people prefer the office, living room or south-east corner.
Is dark orange citrine fake?
Not fake, but usually heat-treated amethyst. It is still quartz; it is simply not natural citrine.
Which hand should I wear a citrine bracelet on?
Many people wear citrine on the left hand, traditionally the receiving hand, to welcome abundance. Pair it with pyrite on the right hand if you wear both.
Where should I keep citrine for money?
Keep a small tumbled citrine in your wallet or cash locker, or place a citrine piece in the south-east corner, the Vastu wealth zone.
Can citrine go in water?
Yes, a brief rinse under running water is fine. Dry it afterwards and avoid long hours in harsh sunlight, which can fade the colour.
