What's the Birthstone for November?

Written By Allie Perry November 15, 2024

November is another month that celebrates two beautiful birthstones: topaz and citrine. Both gemstones radiate warm honey tones, but like many other stones, topaz is available in a variety of colors.

Varieties and Colors of November’s Birthstones

1. Topaz

Topaz is a versatile and durable gemstone, available in a wide array of colors. The Imperial Topaz, with its golden-orange hue, is the variety traditionally associated with November, but topaz can also be found in blue, pink, and colorless varieties.

• Colors: While topaz can be found in nearly every shade, the most prized color for November is the warm, golden hue of Imperial Topaz. Other shades, like blue topaz, are popular for jewelry but are often created through heat treatment to enhance their color.
• Varieties: The variety in color comes from trace elements or imperfections in the stone. Topaz can be naturally golden or enhanced through treatments to create vibrant shades like Swiss Blue or, my personal favorite variety, London Blue.

2. Citrine

Citrine, named after the French word for “lemon,” is known for its sunny yellow to orange-brown hues. It is a member of the quartz family and has been popular throughout history for its affordability and radiant appearance.

• Colors: Citrine typically ranges from pale yellow to deep orange-brown, with the deeper, more saturated tones being the most valuable. 
• Varieties: While natural citrine is rare, most citrine on the market today is created by heat-treating amethyst or smoky quartz, giving them their characteristic golden hues.

Symbolism of Topaz and Citrine

1. Topaz

• Strength and Vitality: Historically, topaz has been associated with strength, courage, and vitality. It was believed to protect its wearer from harm and negative energy.
• Healing and Peace: Topaz is also thought to promote physical healing, particularly for digestive and respiratory issues. It is known as a stone of peace and balance, calming the mind and helping the wearer focus.
• Love and Friendship: The golden tones of topaz are linked to love and loyalty, making it a meaningful gift for friends and partners.

2. Citrine

• Happiness and Optimism: Citrine is often called the “merchant’s stone” due to its association with prosperity, wealth, and success. Its bright color is believed to bring joy, confidence, and optimism.
• Energy and Creativity: This stone is also thought to inspire creativity and bring positive energy into one’s life. It’s often worn by those seeking motivation and a fresh outlook.
• Emotional Balance: Citrine is said to help balance emotions, dissolve negative energy, and promote inner calm, making it a powerful stone for those looking for emotional harmony.

How to Care for Topaz and Citrine

Both topaz and citrine are relatively durable gemstones, but they require proper care to maintain their beauty and luster.

1. Topaz Care

• Hardness: Topaz ranks at 8 on the Mohs scale, making it resistant to scratches, but it can still crack or chip if handled roughly.
• Cleaning: Clean topaz with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as heat can damage the stone.
• Storage: Store topaz separately from harder gemstones like diamonds to prevent scratches. Keep it away from prolonged exposure to sunlight, as its color can fade over time.

2. Citrine Care

• Hardness: Citrine is slightly softer, ranking at 7 on the Mohs scale, and is generally resistant to everyday wear.
• Cleaning: Citrine can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as they may dull the stone.
• Storage: Store citrine in a soft cloth or padded jewelry box. Like topaz, citrine’s color can fade if exposed to excessive sunlight, so it’s best to keep it in a cool, dark place when not in use.

Conclusion

Whether you choose topaz or citrine, the warm colors of November’s birthstones make you feel like you’re carrying sunshine with you wherever you go!

Looking for some new jewelry with topaz or citrine?  Click here to check out my available topaz inventory or click here to check out my available citrine inventory!