Citrine is a yellow variety of quartz. It is softer than gemstones such as ruby and sapphire, and its hardness is rated 7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale. A lot of the citrine on the market is actually amethyst (also a variety of quartz) whose color has been changed through heat treatment.
Citrine is a good choice for rings, as it is a relatively hard stone.
However, it can be cracked if exposed to a strong direct blow, so avoid wearing your citrine ring during vigorous activities.
Ring with citrine
Cleaning a Citrine Ring
Citrine jewelry can be cleaned with water and soap or with jewelry cleaner that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals.
- First, fill a bowl with warm water. Add some soap or mild detergent to prepare a cleaning solution.
- Soak the citrine ring in the water for about 30 minutes.
- Remove the ring from the bowl and clean the citrine gemstone by scrubbing it gently, preferably with a soft toothbrush or a cloth.
- Clean the rest of the ring by rubbing it gently with a brush, paying special attention to the hard-to-reach parts of the setting, where dirt tends to accumulate.
- Rinse the ring well with water. Dry with a soft cloth. Letting the ring air dry might result in spots on its surface, especially on the gemstones.
Important: Do not steam-clean citrine – this stone should not be exposed to heat and may be damaged by it.
Ultrasonic Cleaning for Citrine
Citrine gemstones can be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner.
However, keep in mind that ultrasonic cleaning may loosen the setting of your ring and make its stones more likely to fall out.
If your citrine has been coated with a dye to enhance the stone’s color, do not put the gem in an ultrasonic cleaner, as the coating may get damaged.
Citrine that has been fracture filled should also not be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner, as the vibrations that it produces may damage the stone’s filling.
Storing Your Citrine Ring Properly
If you store your citrine ring together with other pieces, they may scratch each other. To avoid this, wrap your citrine ring (and other jewelry) individually in a soft cloth or put it in a plastic bag.
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Do not put away your citrine ring before it has completely dried out after cleaning.
Wearing a Citrine Ring
Do not wear your citrine ring when washing the dishes or doing other work, as the stones may get damaged.
Keep in mind that harsh cleaning detergents, such as bleach, can alter citrine’s color.
Hairsprays and perfume can also cause citrine’s color to change. It’s best to put on your citrine ring last, after you have applied makeup and other beauty products.
Do not expose citrine to prolonged heat or sunlight, as the stone’s color may be affected.
Do not expose citrine to sudden changes in temperature – such variations may damage the stone by causing it to fracture.
