About 40 years ago, most of us were told that citrine was "natural" — or more accurately, we weren’t told otherwise. Back then, information wasn’t easily accessible, especially in New Zealand, and it wasn’t uncommon for crystal sellers to pass on what they'd been told without question. Then, about 30 years ago, a few whispers started: “You know that’s heat-treated, right?” But it wasn’t until around 25 years ago, as the digital age blossomed and information became more readily available, that the truth really came out — and it's now widely known that many bright, golden “Citrine” pieces are in fact heat-treated Amethyst.

So, What Is Natural Citrine?

Natural citrine is a much rarer form of quartz. Two of the main sources are the Congo and Brazil. The crystals in natural citrine often appear more like traditional clear quartz — long — and their colour ranges from very pale yellow to golden honey, and often blends with smoky quartz to form what’s known as Smoky Citrine.

In contrast, heat-treated citrine is typically made by heating Amethyst — usually from Brazil — to high temperatures. The result is a more intense, often burnt-orange or amber hue. You’ll often find heat-treated citrine in clusters and geodes, and interestingly, these can sometimes be a bit more brittle than their non-heated counterparts, possibly due to the structural stress from heating.

Energetic Properties — Does It Matter?

These days, especially in metaphysical circles, mentioning that a crystal is heat-treated can sometimes trigger an immediate "ick" reaction. People might feel deceived or worry that the energy is somehow less pure or powerful.

But here’s the thing: if a crystal seller is upfront and honest about what they’re selling, that’s something to be appreciated, not frowned upon. There are still some sellers (especially newer ones) who genuinely don’t know the difference because they were told otherwise by a supplier. That’s how the misinformation started in the first place.

And remember, natural citrine is not only rarer — it’s also more expensive. So if you’re buying a large, vividly coloured citrine piece for a low price… chances are, it’s heat-treated. And that’s okay — as long as you know what you’re getting.

My Personal Citrine Story

A few years ago, before I sold my first crystal business, I decided to make a few special pieces just for myself — necklaces I’d keep instead of selling off my own neck like I often did! One of those pieces was a beautiful, solid 5cm double-terminated citrine point. I loved it instantly. Never thought twice about whether it was heat-treated or not — I was just drawn to it.

Then one day, someone asked about it, and without thinking, I said, “Oh, it’s heat-treated citrine.” Their face dropped. It made me pause and ask myself — am I still vibing with this stone? The answer was yes. Absolutely. I chose it because it spoke to me, and it still does. The energy didn’t change just because someone else had a different opinion.

You Get to Decide

So here’s the truth: it’s totally your call. If you prefer natural, that’s great — just be prepared for a higher price and more subtle colours. If you enjoy heat-treated pieces, there’s no shame in that either. They can be vibrant, affordable, and just as energetically powerful — if they feel right to you.

In my personal collection, I have both natural and heat-treated citrine. And for me? Energetically — same, same. It’s about your perception and your connection.

A Bit of Crystal History

Heat-treating crystals might sound like a modern thing, but humans have been modifying gemstones for hundreds — if not thousands — of years. Here are a few examples:

• Ruby (Corundum): Heated to deepen colour and improve clarity. This practice dates back over 1,000 years. I have a ruby ring passed down from my grandmother — it’s a synthetic ruby, very popular in the early-mid 20th century, and I absolutely treasure it.

• Lapis Lazuli: Often heat-treated to enhance its deep blue colour. It has been a common practice for centuries.

• Carnelian: Can deepen in colour if left in strong sunlight for long periods — essentially a natural form of heat treatment!

• Topaz: Heated to produce vibrant blues from otherwise pale or colourless stones.

Whether natural or heat-treated, your relationship with a crystal is yours. If it speaks to you, brings you joy, and feels right in your space or on your body, then that’s what matters most.

Stay curious, stay open, and don’t let someone else’s opinion take the magic out of your personal connection.

– Kristy Crystals xox

To view our selection of Citrine, here is the Link. 

https://blissfulthings.rocketspark.co.nz/shop/#search=citrine

The photo shows Natural Citrine on the Left, Heat-Treated Citrine on the Right.