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Citrine: meaning of the merchant's stone and its zodiac signs

yellow quartz · merchant's stone

  • abundance
  • optimism
  • sun energy
  • November birthstone

Citrine is a yellow, sun-coloured quartz. Tradition links it to optimism, abundance and success, which is why it is called the merchant's stone. It is a November birthstone and suits Gemini and Leo.

What is citrine?

Citrine is the yellow to honey-coloured variety of quartz. Natural citrine is fairly rare, so much of what is sold is heat-treated amethyst. The name comes from the French "citron", lemon.

What does citrine mean?

Citrine is called a sun stone: it stands for warmth, joy and faith in the future. Merchants once kept it in the till, so it is still seen as a symbol of abundance and success.

Which signs is citrine linked to?

Citrine shares the November birthstone with topaz. In astrology two signs love it most:

  • Gemini: bright, playful energy for a curious mind
  • Leo: a sun-ruled sign and a sun-coloured stone, a natural pair

How is citrine worn?

It is often kept in a wallet, a cash box or on a work desk. As jewellery, citrine looks especially good with gold.