Golden citrine cabochons in oval and marquise (navette) shapes — translucent yellow quartz with Mohs 7, Selected from a wholesale lapidary market. 5 shapes available. The marquise silhouette is particularly effective in statement rings and elongated pendants.
Item details
| Mineral |
Citrine (quartz, yellow variety due to iron traces in the crystal lattice) |
| Dimensions |
Variable by variant — see description for each shape. Variation of ±0.5 mm due to hand carving. |
| Shape and back |
Oval or marquise (navette) depending on variant, polished flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
7 Mohs — suitable for any use without restrictions |
| Origin |
Wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; no formal gemological certification. |
| Item type |
Unique piece per variant |
This specific piece
The marquise (also called navette) is an elliptical silhouette with two pointed ends — the most elongated shape available in this lot. On a ring, the marquise visually lengthens the finger and gives the jewelry a more formal and geometric character than the oval.
The oval in this lot complements the marquise — the oval pieces have a more "square" proportion and are better suited for symmetrical ring settings or short pendants.
How citrine's color forms
Citrine is quartz with traces of iron (Fe³⁺) in the crystal lattice that absorb part of the visible spectrum, allowing yellow and golden tones to pass through.
What setting it works for
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Statement ring (925 silver or other precious metals) — a marquise ring has a classic and very elegant result; we recommend a bezel that follows the contours of the navette and covers the two points to protect them.
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Elongated pendant — a marquise pendant adds verticality and slims; it works well on long chains.
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Wire wrap — both shapes have a flat back that facilitates wrapping; citrine looks especially good with gold wire (brass, bronze or gold-filled).
Citrine in lapidary tradition
Natural citrine was appreciated in ancient Greece and Rome, where it was used in cameos and seals for its hardness and warm color. In the 19th century, citrine became popular as an affordable alternative to yellow topaz. The term "citrine" derives from the Latin citrina (lemon yellow).
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine citrine
Cabochon citrine is distinguished from yellow glass by its cool temperature to the touch and its greater hardness (7 Mohs — glass is ~5.5). Under magnification, citrine may show typical quartz inclusions (veils, rutile needles) that glass does not have.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between marquise and oval for a ring?
The marquise visually lengthens the finger and projects sideways — it is more formal and geometric. The oval is more classic and neutral. Both have the same hardness and the same lapidary treatment. The choice depends on the design of the jewelry and the intended finger.
Is the marquise bezel complicated?
The two points of the marquise are the most delicate points in the setting — the metal must cover and secure these ends. We recommend a bezel that covers the points or a prong setting at the terminal points. The jeweler custom-builds the bezel to fit the exact piece.
Are they heat treated?
No detectable treatment through lapidary observation. We do not include formal gemological certification. For more context on citrine and heat treatment, see the note in the color formation section.
Are the dimensions exact?
The dimensions of each variant are in its description. Variation of ±0.5 mm in any dimension due to hand carving.
Is the color stable?
Citrine may fade slightly with prolonged exposure to intense direct sunlight. For everyday indoor jewelry, there is no real risk.
How to care for it?
Water and neutral soap. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Full guide in jewelry care.
See also: all cabochons · handmade silver rings.
