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What Is the Birthstone for November?
Topaz and citrine are the official birthstones for November. These golden-hued birthstones offer those born in November two distinctive options to celebrate their birth month. While sometimes confused due to their similar appearance, topaz and citrine are entirely different minerals with unique properties and characteristics.
Topaz is the traditional birthstone for November, with its historical significance dating back thousands of years. Citrine, a variety of quartz, was later added as a modern alternative. Both gemstones are celebrated for their vibrant colors and relative affordability compared to many other birthstones, making them versatile and attractive options for jewelry.
Popular November Birthstone Jewelry
Topaz Birthstone
History & Meaning
Topaz has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The name "topaz" is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning fire, or from the Greek island of Topazios (now called Zabargad) in the Red Sea, where the stone was historically mined. Throughout history, topaz has been associated with various mystical and healing properties.
Ancient Greeks believed topaz could increase strength and make its wearer invisible in emergencies. During the Middle Ages, topaz was thought to heal physical and mental ailments and prevent death.
Topaz symbolizes love and affection, making it a stone of friendship. It is believed to enhance one's sweetness and disposition, promoting joy, generosity, and good health. The stone is linked to peaceful communication and emotional expression, helping to establish deeper and more meaningful relationships.
Color
Topaz is renowned for its remarkable range of colors. While it naturally occurs in a variety of shades, the most commonly associated color with November's topaz is a rich, golden-yellow. However, topaz can also be found in shades of blue, orange, pink, and even white. Golden yellow topaz, often referred to as Imperial Topaz, is particularly valued and sought-after for its warm, stunning appearance.
Durability
Topaz scores an 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it a relatively durable birthstone suitable for everyday wear. However, it should be handled with care as it can be prone to chipping and cracking if struck with force. Topaz is also sensitive to extreme heat and sudden temperature changes, which can cause its color to fade or alter.
Origin
Topaz is commonly found in various parts of the world, with deposits in Brazil, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka.
Care & Maintenance
To clean topaz, use warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, as the stone's internal structure can be sensitive to high temperatures. Store topaz jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching and potential damage.
For everyday care, it's recommended to remove topaz jewelry before engaging in activities that might subject the stone to hard impacts or extreme conditions. With proper care, topaz jewelry can maintain its beauty and luster for generations.
Citrine Birthstone
History & Meaning
Citrine’s history is equally fascinating. The stone was popularized in Ancient Greece, where it was used as a decorative gem. Its sunny color made it a favorite among the Greeks and Romans, who believed it had the power to protect against evil thoughts and snake venom. In more recent history, citrine gained popularity during the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s and was often featured in stunning pieces of jewelry.
Citrine is known as the “Merchant’s Stone” for its reputed ability to attract wealth and prosperity. It is believed to carry the power of the sun, offering energy and warmth to those who wear it. Citrine is said to promote positivity, dispel negative energies, and encourage creativity and clarity of thought, making it an excellent stone for those in need of a boost in confidence.
Color
Named after the French word for lemon, "citron," citrine is known for its yellow to golden-orange color. The most prized citrine stones exhibit a deep, honeyed hue, reminiscent of a sunset. This warm and inviting color makes citrine a popular choice for jewelry, especially in pieces designed to bring a touch of sunshine to the wearer. With its ready availability in a broad range of sizes, citrine is among the most affordable and desired yellow gemstones in today's market.
Durability
Citrine ranks 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness with good toughness, indicating good durability for regular use and care. Citrine is less likely to scratch but should still be protected from hard knocks and rough handling. It is also stable under normal wearing conditions and is resistant to most chemicals and light exposure, making it suitable for everyday jewelry pieces.
Origin
Citrine is commonly sourced from Brazil, Spain, Bolivia, Madagascar, and the United States.
Care & Maintenance
Citrine can be cleaned using warm soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. It is generally safe to use ultrasonic cleaners, but steam cleaning should be avoided. Like topaz, citrine should be stored separately to prevent scratches and damage from harder gemstones.
While citrine is relatively durable, it's best practice to remove citrine jewelry before engaging in activities that might subject the stone to hard impacts or chemicals. With proper care, citrine jewelry can maintain its sunny glow and remain a cherished piece for many years.
