Natural Citrine (Sunela) Stone in Pakistan

Sunela or Pukhraj? Clearing up a common mix-up

In Pakistani markets, yellow citrine is sometimes passed off as Pukhraj. They are different gems. True Pukhraj is yellow sapphire, a corundum rated 9 on the Mohs scale and priced far higher. Citrine is quartz, rated 7, and is a beautiful, affordable gem in its own right. If you are buying a stone for its astrological role as Pukhraj, make sure you know which one you are getting; our listings always name the mineral.

Shades of citrine

• Lemon citrine - a bright, fresh yellow.
• Golden citrine - the classic warm gold, popular in rings.
• Madeira citrine - a deep orange-brown to reddish gold, usually the most valued.

Natural colour and heated stones

Naturally coloured citrine is relatively uncommon and is usually a soft, pale yellow. A large share of the citrine on the world market is produced by heating amethyst, which turns it yellow to orange, often with a slightly reddish tint at the corners. Heated citrine is stable and widely sold, but it should be described honestly. Where we know a stone has been heated, the listing says so.

What makes a Sunela more valuable

Colour leads: a rich, even, saturated gold without brownish or smoky tones is the most desirable. Citrine is typically eye-clean, so visible inclusions reduce the price noticeably. A precise cut with good brilliance lifts the stone, and because larger citrine is readily found, the rate climbs gradually with size. On each listing the per-carat rate is price divided by carat weight.

Telling citrine from glass

Citrine feels cool, often shows faint colour zoning and may have tiny natural inclusions. Yellow glass warms quickly and can show round bubbles or moulding marks. Yellow topaz and citrine can look alike, so for any important purchase a certificate of authenticity, available on request, is the safest route.

Traditional associations

Citrine is a November birthstone and is popularly called the "merchant's stone". In South Asian astrology it is linked with Jupiter (Brihaspati), and it is traditionally worn for optimism and abundance, sometimes as a gentler, budget-friendly substitute for Pukhraj. These are beliefs, not guaranteed outcomes; consult an astrologer if this is why you are buying.

Caring for citrine

Wash with mild soap and water. Prolonged strong sunlight can slowly fade some stones, so store it away from bright windows.

Buying from GemStore

We inspect every citrine before listing it and photograph it as it is. Delivery reaches every city in Pakistan by insured, tracked courier, and Cash on Delivery lets you open and check the parcel before paying. Unused stones can be returned within 7 days of delivery for a refund or exchange.