4.88 Ct. Yellow Citrine from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This piece is a transparent yellow citrine weighing 4.88 carats, an exceptional size for the variety when found in untreated form. The gem measures 12.99 x 8.51 x 5.81 mm, presented in a classical emerald cut that emphasizes clarity and color in broad, parallel step facets. At 4.88 carats the stone attains a presence and table surface area that materially increases its visual impact and market value, as larger citrines of natural origin and eye clean clarity are substantially less common than smaller, commercially typical sizes. The proportions recorded here produce a balanced profile that reads well in hand as shown in our images, the generous dimensions translating directly into face up area and perceived brilliance. The Natural Gemstone Company offers this citrine as a single, well documented example of commercial scale and gemological quality, supplied without enhancement and with clear provenance traced to Ceylon Sri Lanka.

From a cutting and craftsmanship perspective, the emerald cut chosen for this citrine is technically appropriate to the material and weight, optimizing yield from the rough while producing the hall of mirrors effect that step cutting is renowned for. The cutter has employed broad crown and pavilion steps with carefully calibrated facet widths to preserve saturation and produce attractive light interplay without introducing windowing. The measured depth of 5.81 mm relative to the length and width yields a moderate depth profile that maintains weight while avoiding excessive shallow table area that can wash out color. Facet junctions are sharp and symmetrical, and polish is graded excellent throughout, resulting in crisp facet reflections and unimpeded clarity. These attributes, combined with the emerald cut geometry, ensure the gem disperses light in broad flashes rather than scintillating pinpoints, a quality that accentuates the warm yellow tone and lends a sophisticated, architectural look ideal for classic ring settings.

Optically and gemologically the stone conforms to expectations for natural citrine, a variety of quartz, with a refractive index in the range of approximately 1.544 to 1.553, and modest dispersion consistent with the species. Birefringence in quartz is low, and this specimen shows no optical anomalies at eye level, consistent with its eye clean clarity grade. The color is described as medium intensity yellow, evenly distributed throughout the crystal without zoning or concentration at the girdle, which is a desirable attribute in larger stones where uneven color can detract from overall appeal. No treatments or heating enhancements are reported, a factor that materially affects both desirability and long term value, since the market typically encounters larger citrines that have been heat treated from amethyst or smoky quartz. Origin documentation attributing the material to Ceylon Sri Lanka further enhances its provenance value, as Sri Lankan citrines with natural color and clarity at this size are comparatively scarce.

Weight plays a decisive role in the valuation and rarity profile of this gem, 4.88 carats being a threshold where per carat prices for high quality, untreated citrine rise appreciably compared to smaller sizes. Larger single stones command a premium for several reasons, including the diminished supply of sizable, clean rough, the increased difficulty in achieving balanced proportions without sacrificing color or clarity, and the greater potential for a striking jewelry centerpiece that commands higher retail and bespoke setting fees. In practical terms this weight allows for a dominant solitaire presence in rings and pendants, while preserving enough depth for secure setting choices and durability in everyday wear, given citrine has a Mohs hardness around seven. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the gemographic details presented here, and can provide further documentation and recommendations for setting and care, advising gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and avoiding prolonged exposure to intense heat and harsh chemicals to preserve natural color. This citrine represents a technical and aesthetic synthesis, marrying precise cutting and excellent polish with a weight that confers both rarity and collectible value.