How To Clean Citrine

Last updated on October 22nd, 2024 at 11:37 am

Citrine is a stunning, golden gemstone that needs a little TLC to keep its sparkle. It is known as the “merchant’s stone” for its association with prosperity and abundance, citrine is a popular choice among crystal enthusiasts who keep crystals in their bedroom and those who place crystals in their garden for enhanced energy flow.

Citrine is a type of quartz, and its beautiful colour comes from traces of iron. Knowing how to clean citrine properly can ensure that it stays as radiant as the day you got it.

Citrine can accumulate dirt, oils, and negative energy over time, so cleaning it both physically and energetically is important. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best methods for cleaning citrine, ensuring your gem stays beautiful without causing any damage.

How Fragile is Citrine?

When caring for your gemstone, it’s important to be aware of how fragile citrine is.

It ranks as 7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale so it’s not the most sensitive stone, but it can fracture if it’s exposed to heat.

image showing Mohs scale ranks of Citrine

It can also fade if it’s exposed to light for long periods of time and it can be damaged by hydrofluoric acid, alkaline solutions and ammonium fluoride.

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How to Clean Citrine

There are a few ways to clean citrine. Here are some suggestions.

1. Soap and Warm Water Method

An image showing the process of cleaning a citrine gemstone using the soap and water method. In the center, there is a small transparent bowl filled with soapy water, with a piece of citrine soaking inside.

The most reliable and straightforward way to clean citrine is by using warm, soapy water. Here’s how:

  • Fill a small bowl with warm water (not hot).
  • Add a few drops of mild dish soap.
  • Place your citrine in the bowl and let it soak for 5-10 minutes.
  • Gently scrub the gemstone with a soft toothbrush to remove any dirt or grime.
  • Rinse under lukewarm running water and pat dry with a soft cloth.

Important Tip: Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as these can damage the citrine.

2. Ultrasonic Jewelry Cleaner

An image of an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner in action, cleaning a citrine crystal. The cleaner is a small, rectangular device filled with water, with visible ripples indicating ultrasonic waves. Inside the device, a citrine crystal is partially submerged, with some light bubbles forming around it.

An ultrasonic jewelry cleaner uses vibrating sound waves and water to clean dirt from jewelry. However, it can loosen jewelry settings causing gems to fall out.

If the gem has been coated with dye, the cleaner may also remove the dye. It’s also not advisable for fracture filled rings as the vibration may loosen the stone’s fillings.

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Keeping your citrine clean doesn’t require fancy products—most of what you need is probably already in your home.

Soap and Baking Soda Paste

One simple DIY citrine cleaning solution involves using a gentle soap and baking soda paste:

  • Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with baking soda to form a paste.
  • Gently apply the paste to the citrine using a soft cloth or toothbrush.
  • Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any residue and pat dry.

Important Note: Do not scrub too hard, as baking soda can be mildly abrasive. This method works well for removing stubborn dirt or grime.

Vinegar Substitute – Lemon Juice (With Caution)

If you’re tempted to use vinegar, try diluted lemon juice instead. Lemon juice is less harsh and can effectively remove grime:

  • Mix a few drops of lemon juice with water.
  • Apply to the gemstone using a soft cloth.
  • Rinse off immediately with warm water.

Caution: Only use lemon juice sparingly, as citrine can be sensitive to acids.

Many people love citrine for its energetic properties, often linked to positivity and abundance. To cleanse your citrine energetically, you can:

  • Use Moonlight: Place your citrine under the moonlight overnight. The full moon is particularly effective for this.
  • Sage or Incense: Pass your citrine through the smoke of sage or incense to clear any negative energy.
  • Selenite Plate: Place your citrine on a selenite plate for a few hours. Selenite is a self-cleansing crystal that can cleanse other stones too.

These methods won’t physically clean citrine but are popular for those who appreciate the crystal’s metaphysical aspects.

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If you don’t clean citrine regularly, it can lose its vibrant shine and clarity. Dirt, oils, and negative energy can accumulate on the surface, making the gemstone look dull and less attractive. Over time, this build-up may also reduce citrine’s energetic properties, impacting its ability to bring positivity and abundance into your life. Physically, the accumulation of grime can be harder to remove if left too long, which might require more aggressive cleaning methods that could risk damaging the stone.

It’s easy to tell when your citrine needs a good clean if you know what signs to look for. Here are some common indicators that your citrine stone might be dirty:

  • Dull Appearance: One of the most obvious signs is a lack of shine. When citrine loses its natural glow, it’s likely covered in oils, dust, or grime.
  • Sticky or Oily Feel: If your citrine feels sticky or oily to the touch, it’s a sign that dirt and skin oils have built up on the surface.
  • Visible Dirt in Crevices: For citrine jewellery, dirt often gets trapped in intricate settings or crevices. If you can see dark spots or particles, it’s time for a clean.
  • Energetic Stagnation: Many believe that citrine can store negative energy over time. If your citrine doesn’t feel as “bright” or positive as before, it might need an energetic cleanse.

If your citrine has lost its shine, don’t worry—you can easily restore it with a few simple steps, Similar to cleaning selenite or cleansing rose quartz,. Citrine is a beautiful stone that deserves to sparkle, and restoring its shine is all about using the right cleaning techniques.

Step-by-Step Guide to Restore Citrine Shine

  • Use Mild Soap and Warm Water: Start by soaking your citrine in a bowl of warm water mixed with a few drops of mild dish soap. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes to loosen any grime.
  • Gentle Brushing: After soaking, use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the citrine, paying close attention to any crevices where dirt may be hiding.
  • Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the stone under lukewarm water to wash away soap and dirt. Ensure all residue is removed to avoid a dull finish.
  • Polish with a Soft Cloth: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to polish the citrine. Gently buff the surface in circular motions to bring back its natural lustre.

Important Tip: Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as these can scratch or discolour your citrine.

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Citrine is sensitive to heat and light, and taking proper care can keep it looking as vibrant as the day you got it.

Tips to Prevent Citrine from Fading

  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause citrine to fade. Store your citrine jewellery in a dark place or in a jewellery box to protect it from harsh light.
  • Keep Away from Heat Sources: Heat can discolour citrine, so avoid placing it near heat sources like radiators or stoves.
  • Store Properly: When not in use, store your citrine jewellery in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box to protect it from scratches and fading.
  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Chemicals in cleaning products, perfumes, and hairsprays can contribute to fading. Always remove your citrine jewellery before applying these products.

You don’t need to clean citrine frequently. Cleaning it once every few months is typically enough unless it’s visibly dirty. Regular cleaning will help maintain its shine and prevent any build-up of oils or residue.

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Other Citrine Care Tips

Here are other care tips that will ensure your citrine jewelry stays in the best shape possible.

Store it Carefully

Your citrine jewelry should be stored carefully in a container where it will not rub up against other items that will scratch or damage it.

If you are keeping it in a jewelry box with other pieces, it’s advisable to wrap it up first. You can put it inside a soft cloth or a velvet or silk pouch to keep it safe.

Wear Your Ring Mindfully

Citrine jewelry can also get damaged when it’s being worn. Here are some guidelines that will ensure you keep your piece safe when wearing it out.

  • Don’t wear your citrine jewelry when you’re engaging in rigorous activities such as exercising, cooking, gardening or doing dishes. Be aware that chlorine can fade a citrine stone, so don’t wear it in the pool either.
  • Keep your gem away from chemicals that can damage it such as ammonium fluoride, alkaline solutions and hydrofluoric acid.
  • Cosmetics may contain chemicals that damage citrine so bracelets and rings should be put on after makeup is applied.
  • Avoid exposing the gem to extreme heat or sunlight that can cause it to fade and crack.

Your gemstone requires professional maintenance. It’s advisable to take it to a jeweler for an inspection and cleaning at least twice a year.

Can I use vinegar to clean citrine?

No, vinegar is too acidic and may damage the surface of your citrine. Stick with mild soap and water for the safest cleaning method.

Is citrine safe in salt water?

While some people use saltwater to cleanse crystals, it’s best to avoid this with citrine as the salt can be abrasive and may scratch the stone.

Can I wear citrine in the shower?

It’s better to avoid wearing citrine in the shower. Prolonged exposure to hot water, soap, and shampoos can dull the gemstone over time.

How do I know if my citrine needs cleaning?

If your citrine looks dull or has lost its sparkle, it’s time for a clean. Oils from your skin and everyday dust can build up, reducing its natural shine.

How To Clean Citrine: Conclusion

Citrine jewelry is lovely and valuable. Now that you know what you need to do to keep it safe and clean, you are ready to enjoy wearing yours for years to come.

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