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The Difference Between Yellow Sapphire and Citrine

The Difference Between Yellow Sapphire and Citrine

  • Posted by: Admin

There are hundreds of identified gemstones in this world! Some are precious while others are semi-precious gemstones. Also, there are stones that are almost similar looking. The similarities can be in many ways. Two or more stones can share the same color, properties, or benefits. Yet, no matter how much resemblance any two stones might have, they'll be different from each other.yellow sapphire stone

In this blog, we will look at the difference between two similar-looking stones. We'll be comparing Yellow Sapphire and Citrine which often leave the buyers confused. The confusion stems from their yellow color, but both gems have unique qualities. To make a fair comparison and pick their best stone, one must know the differences between the two. 

Scroll down to learn the fascinating contrasts between Yellow Sapphire and Citrine! 

What is Yellow Sapphire? 

Before learning the differences, let's understand what Yellow Sapphire is. The stunning gem hails from the corundum mineral family. It's one of the most coveted stones in the world of gemstones and astrology. It's also known as Pukhraj Stone, Peetmani, Pushparaj, Pushparagam, Kanakpushyaragam or Guru Stone. As per Vedic astrology, its ruling planet is Jupiter (Brihaspati). It can help strengthen a weak Jupiter in one's birth chart. Wearing it can bring prosperity, wisdom, success, good health, spirituality, and a blissful marriage. 

What is Citrine? 

Citrine is a semi-precious gemstone from the yellow quartz variety. Its occurrence is very rare in nature, and it comes in a wide range of yellow hues. It can feature colors ranging from pale to brownish-orange yellow. Citrine is also known as Sunela Stone in Hindi. As per Western astrology, it's an alternate November birthstone. Whereas Vedic astrology often suggests wearing it as the Pukhraj stone's substitute gem. Wearing it can bring fortune, name, fame, intelligence, health, marital and progeny bliss. 

Yellow Sapphire and Citrine: What's the Difference? 

Finally, let's dive into knowing the differences between Pukhraj Stone and Sunela. We hope this helps you find which gemstone is the best pick for you. 


SL.NO Factors Yellow Sapphire (Pukhraj Stone)Citrine (Sunela) 
1Color 
  • Yellow Sapphire stone is renowned for its attractive color.
  • The finest quality Pukhraj Stone features a vibrant canary yellow color. 
  • Citrine also has a vivid shade of yellow hue.
  • A high quality Sunela stone exhibits a reddish orange to golden yellow color.
2Clarity 
  • The stone includes natural minor inclusions and usually doesn’t affect its overall beauty.
  • Yet, it has fewer inclusions compared to other colors of sapphires.
  • Most Citrine gemstones available in the market exhibit a “eye clean” appearance.
  • It has fewer inclusions compared to Peetmani.
3Hardness 
  • It scores a solid 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale.
  • Pukhraj exhibits exceptional durability and strength. 
  • Citrine scores a fair 7 out of 10 on the hardness scale.
  • It can be considered durable for daily wear. 
4Brilliance 
  • The refractive index of this precious stone measures 1.770 – 1.779 (approximately).  
  • The refractive index of this semi-precious gemstone measures 1.544 – 1.553 (approximately).  
5Treatments 
  • Most Yellow Sapphires undergo heat treatment to enhance color and clarity.  
  • Today, most Citrines are obtained by heat treating stones like Amethyst, or sometimes smoky quartz. 
6Affordability 
  • A Pukhraj Stone can be priced higher depending on its color, clarity, and carat. 
  • Sunela is an affordable option compared to Yellow Sapphire. 
7Price 
  • A decent quality Ceylonese Pukhraj price can start from 6000/- INR and can go up to 50,000/- INR per carat (approximately).  
  • A Sunela Stone’s price can start from 125/- INR and can go up to 400/- INR per carat (approximately).   
8Popularity 
  • Yellow Sapphire’s is one of the most sought-after gemstones ever.
  • It’s also emerging as a popular alternative to yellow diamonds
  • Its vivacity and affordability have made it a popular gemstone in the industry. 

What is the Benefit of Yellow Sapphire? 

As per Vedic science, natural Yellow Sapphire has many healing properties and benefits. Its ruling planet is Jupiter which is one of the most influential out of nine planets. Wearing it can shower the blessings of Jupiter on the wearer. Besides, it can bring various transformation changes. It can bring prosperity, popularity, knowledge, success, and good health. It's best for women facing delays in marriage.

The stone can also promote marital bliss and healthy progeny. In Hinduism, Jupiter is also known as "Guru," which means teacher. Professionals including attorneys, advocates, judges, and authors gain a lot from wearing it. An original Pukhraj Stone encourages the wearer to manage ambiguous situations. It also promotes wise judgements, self-control, and success in every possible way. Find out more benefits of Yellow Sapphire at GemsRoot. 

What is the Benefit of Citrine? 

Citrine, also known as Sunela, has strong healing and spiritual properties. As per expert astrologers, it's an excellent and affordable substitute for Pukhraj Stone. The benefits of Sunela are a lot like that of the precious gemstone. Wearing it can bring good luck, health, wealth, happiness, confidence, self-esteem, and power. It can also help people overcome anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

Wearing the stone can give the wearer refreshed purpose, enthusiasm, and creativity. Sunela is also well-known as the "success stone." Astrologers believe that it can help manifest luck, prosperity, and success in life. It can also discourage the wearer from making unnecessary expenditures. It can also help maintain a happy marriage and healthy pregnancy. If Citrine is not the gem for you, here are The Best Yellow Sapphire Substitutes You Must Know.

Yellow Sapphire Vs Citrine: Which One Should You Buy? 

Yellow Sapphire and Citrine are both captivating, healing, and beneficial in unique ways. The ultimate choice between the two is a matter of personal preference and needs. A Pukhraj Stone is a precious gem which is the epitome of beauty, class, and brilliance. Whereas Sunela is popular for its color, clarity, and affordability. One must pick according to their priorities.

If you like beauty and prominence, Yellow Sapphire is suitable for you. Whereas, if you want an eye-catching gem at a reasonable price, then Sunela is your best choice. Remember to consult an astrologer before wearing these stones to harness the most benefits. They will recommend the best-suited gemstone as per your birth chart. You can use the free gemstone recommendations tool or contact experts at GemsRoot! 

At GemsRoot, we offer natural gemstones, Astro consultation and tarot reading services. Our gems are 100% real, sustainable, ethical, conflict-free, and lab-certified. We also provide our customers with authentic GRS certificates along with each stone. You can browse through our exquisite collection of original Pukhraj stone and Sunela. If any gem calls out to you, contact our expert gemologists and astrologers at GemsRoot.com.   

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