NOVEMBER BIRTHSTONE
Individuals with November birthdays can choose from two beautiful birthstones: topaz and citrine. Topaz showcases a rainbow of colors, while citrine is valued for its charming yellow and orange hues. Each November birthstone, known for their calming energies, bring fortune and warmth to the wearer. Affordably priced, most topaz and citrine birthstones are readily available, as high-quality gems are not as rare as with some counterparts. This abundance provides those born in November with a wide range of options. The challenge lies in deciding which one to pick.
TOPAZ BIRTHSTONE - A NOVEMBER GEM
TOPAZ BIRTHSTONE MEANING & HISTORY
The traditional birthstone for November is topaz. Generally, topazes are present in a wide range of colors such as brown, orange, green, yellow, and purple. They can also be colorless. Primarily, expensive topaz gemstones are of pink and reddish color. The second most valuable color are reddish-orange in tone. Contrary to this, the cheapest topazes are brown. The world’s most valuable one is the imperial topaz, also called the precious topaz. Depending upon color, these stones can cost around 1000 to 3500 dollars per carat.
HISTORY OF TOPAZ
Topaz stones have been around since Greek times. The Greeks formerly referred to this stone as “Topazios,” naming an island once located in the Red Sea. Contrary to expectations, this island didn’t contain any topaz stones; instead, the famous peridot was first discovered on it. Moreover, according to the Greeks, soldiers during times of war could gain strength and courage from these stones. From 1300 to 1600, people used topaz gemstones as a means to ward off the harmful effects of black magic and spells. In Indian history, topaz was known as ”Tapaz” in Sanskrit. In the 19th century, it was mined in the Ural Mountains of Russia, where miners can still find it today.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
The chemical composition of topaz consists of aluminum oxide, with fluorine. The formula for this gemstone is Al2(F,OH)2SiO4. Topazes form in cavities known as rhyolite, granite, or pegmatite when igneous rocks begin to cool down and the process of crystallization occurs. A sturdy one, this stone is an 8 on Mohs scale of hardness.
HEALING PROPERTIES
Topaz gemstones are known to heal digestive issues. It relieves those with eating disorders such as anorexia. Spiritually, these gemstones relate to all the chakras. From the crown to the root, topazes increase motivation and remove negativity in the surroundings to provide the wearer with a happier mood. The stone aids in emotional healing and heightens intuition along with meditation process. Topaz stones help in keeping the soul grounded and humble. It not only increases good fortune but, creates spiritual, emotional and, financial abundance.
One of the most sought-after November birthstones is this pinkish orange Imperial topaz.
WHERE IS TOPAZ FOUND?
Brazil mines the largest quantity of topaz. You can find topaz in several countries such as Germany, Norway, Italy, and Sweden. There are many topaz mines in the North, South, and Central America. In Russia, topaz is present in the Ural and Ilmensky Mountains. In Asia, these gemstones are abundant in Pakistan, Japan, Afghanistan and, Sri Lanka.
TOPAZ BIRTHSTONE CARE & CLEANING
Topaz has an 8 on the Mohs scale making it tough to scratch or damage but, since it has a delicate crystal structure, it can crack easier than it seems to lead on. If cleaning at home, dip it in some mild detergent with lukewarm water. Softly brush off any remaining dust and, Pat dry with a soft cloth to avoid scratches. Store in a fabric-lined box for maximum care. Try visiting a nearby jeweler once or twice a year to have your gemstone professionally cleaned. It will help in maintaining its luster and shine.
Here are some of the many colors of topaz. From left to right: a 9.21 carat (ct) colorless topaz from Nigeria, a 15.01 ct light blue topaz from Brazil, an 18.41 ct purplish pink topaz from Pakistan, and a 12.54 ct orange-red topaz from Brazil.
CITRINE BIRTHSTONE - A NOVEMBER GEM
CITRINE BIRTHSTONE MEANING & HISTORY
The modern birthstone for November is citrine. This gemstone has colors ranging from bright sunny to pale yellows. It can also have brownish-orange tones giving it that signature autumn hue. Expensive citrines are the most vibrant, possessing a red-orange color mix that costs 30 dollars per carat. Lighter color citrines sell at a cheaper rate due to their dullness. In addition, the highest quality citrines contain golden hues with some specs of orange and yellow. The most expensive citrine in the world is present in the Smithsonian museum and values at cost of $120,000.It has the largest volume and cuts among gemstones.
HISTORY OF CITRINE
In 1556, people replaced the name “yellow quartz” with citrine. The use of citrine gemstones dates back to 300 to 150 BC when the Greeks started incorporating them. Because of their cheerful yellow colors, people refer to citrines as a “Treasure from the sun.” The Scots used citrines in the hilts of swords and daggers to enhance their decorative appearance. Ancient Egyptians and Romans included these stones in their daily wear jewelry, believing they enhanced emotional control.
CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Citrines, also known as silicon dioxide, have a chemical formula of SiO2. Manufacturers typically create most citrines on the market by heat-treating amethyst stones or smoky quartz. These treated stones have a darker color compared to natural citrines, which are lighter. They have a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Identifying fake citrines made with glass is relatively easy; if there are bubbles inside, it’s likely not a natural citrine, as genuine citrine gemstones are exceptionally clear.
HEALING PROPERTIES
As with most gemstones, citrines also come with many healing properties and benefits. These gemstones promote positive feelings and are known to cure feelings of unhappiness and negativity. They help develop feelings of motivation and self-esteem. Citrines enhance the intellectual abilities and increase memory retention. Similarly, they work to regulate any hormonal imbalances. Citrines promote healthier pancreas, kidneys, liver functioning, control in blood pressure and diabetes. Specifically, citrines anchor the solar plexus and sacral chakras and, wearing them can bring these two chakras into fruition to develop a heightened feeling of confidence and self-expression.
A fantasy cut unleashes the fire within this 43.49 ct citrine.
WHERE IS CITRINE FOUND?
Brazil mines the majority of citrines. Other sources for this gemstone include Spain, Scotland, Namibia, Argentina, Bolivia, Madagascar, Myanmar, France, etc. It is also famously present in Russia in the northern Ural Mountains.
Faceting of the Anahí mine crystals produces citrine, amethyst and ametrine gems.
CITRINE BIRTHSTONE CARE & CLEANING
At 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness with good toughness, your citrine birthstone is usually durable enough for normal wear and care. It can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water. While it is usually okay to clean your November birthstone in an ultrasonic machine, steam cleaning is risky since high heat could cause the stone to crack.
Orange citrine birthstone ring.
FINAL THOUGHT: NOVEMBER BIRTHSTONE
Now that you know a little bit more about the history of these two November birthstones and where you can find them, you might be inspired to add them to your collection! In summary having topaz and citrine as your November birthstones gives you numerous choices, as they offer eye-catching colors and sizes. You’ll find our Topaz Buying Guide and Citrine Buying Guide to be extremely helpful when looking for a November birthstone for yourself or a loved one.