November Birthstones: Yellow Topaz And Citrine Birthstone
November born have two beautiful November birthstones to choose from. Yellow topaz symbolizes wealth and well-being, while citrine is known for joy and positivity. Both citrine and topaz come in a lovely sunny light yellow color to warm the heart and soul and bring good vibes.
Ready to discover more about these fascinating November birthstones? Read on.
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What is the birthstone for November born?
The traditional November birthstone is a yellow topaz. But since the 1910s, the more affordable and accessible citrine became popular as an alternative November gemstone with the same lovely yellow color.
Yellow topaz and natural citrine have often been mistaken for one another, as they both have very similar light yellow colors. However, they are two different stones. Practically, they are both hard and durable enough for daily wear – perfect for crafting some stunning November birthstone jewelry.
The traditional birthstone for November: Yellow Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It is one of the hardest naturally occurring stones.
The topaz in its natural state is most commonly found colorless. Traces of element impurities cause the yellow color in the topaz.
Other common colors are blue and pink topaz. Those are very rare in nature and are often artificially created by treating colorless or pale yellow topaz with irradiation and heat.
The largest deposits of topaz are in Brazil, with other significant mines found in Brazil, Russia, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and the United States.
Some of the largest and finest topaz crystals, weighing 31.8 kg (70 lb) and 50.4 kg (111 lb) respectively are on display at the Smithsonian Institute, along with the 22,892.5 carats “American Golden” faceted yellow topaz.
Alternate birthstone for November: Citrine
Citrine is a yellow form of quartz, slightly softer at 7 on the Mohs scale than topaz. The largest deposits of citrine are mined in Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, and Madagascar.
The name for the citrine comes from the Latin “citrum”, which means “lemon”, for its yellow color.
Natural yellow citrine is quite rare. Most of the commercially available citrines are heat-treated amethysts and smoky quartzes. Natural citrine has a light yellow color, while the heat-treated varieties are usually dark golden honey yellow.
Birthstone color for November
The color of both November birthstones is lovely yellow in many captivating shades.
Yellow topaz and natural citrine come in a light sunny yellow color to warm the heart and soul and bring good vibes.
The heat-treated citrine is a darker honey-gold yellow, with earthy tones that echo the fall season.
November birthstones meaning
Yellow topaz birthstone meaning
The name “topaz” is thought to come from the Sanskrit word tapas, meaning “fire,” likely due to its vibrant orange and golden hues. In another origin theory, topaz is linked to Topazios, the name of a small Greek island in the Red Sea, where topaz was once sourced.
Yellow topaz is often linked with love, affection, and personal confidence. It is seen as a stone that strengthens friendships and brings joy, generosity, and good health.
Many believe it boosts self-confidence, strengthens intelligence, and attracts wealth. These traits make it a popular choice for those looking to improve their emotional well-being and resilience.
Yellow topaz is also believed to have health benefits. It may help with digestion, weight management, and even arthritis relief. As a protective stone, it is often kept in homes to protect against fires and misfortune, or under a pillow to ward off nightmares.
Because of its qualities, topaz was also worn by royalty and leaders in crowns and rings, symbolizing protection and clarity of thought.
One of the most well-known topaz stones is the Braganza, a clear gem set into the Portuguese Crown. Until the mid-19th century, the majestic stone was thought to be a diamond. Until today, it makes for a good topaz trivia fact.
Citrine birthstone meaning
Citrine has always been admired for its positive vibrant, sunny color. Many cultures view citrine as a physical representation of sunlight, bringing hope, energy, and vitality to those who wear it. It is often seen as a symbol of mental clarity, creativity, and imagination.
Some believe citrine carries the healing power of the sun, and wearing it will improve their physical and emotional health.
Citrine’s warm energy soothes stress and provides comfort, bringing calm and happiness to the wearer. That makes it a lovely gemstone for those seeking balance and positivity.
Citrine is also considered a stone of abundance, attracting wealth, joy, and well-being. It has been called the “money stone”, or “merchant’s stone” and is often placed in money bags or purses to bring prosperity.
November birthstones history
Yellow topaz birthstone history
Yellow topaz has been valued for centuries across different cultures. Ancient Egyptians recorded the stone as connected to the sun god Ra, giving it protective and healing powers.
Scholar Pliny the Elder included topaz in his Natural History encyclopedia, which suggests the stone was well-known and valued in ancient Rome.
During the Middle Ages, topaz was used to improve mental strength, provide wisdom, and prevent mental disorders.
Throughout the Renaissance, the topaz amulet was worn on the left arm for protection against dark magic.
In India, wearing a topaz above the heart is seen as a guarantee of long life, beauty, and intelligence.
A lovely teardrop-shaped yellow topaz strung on a 14k gold chain. Simple and elegant.
Citrine birthstone history
Known as the “healing quartz” from ancient times, citrine was carried as a protection against snake venom, negative thoughts, and heartache.
To Greek traders during the Hellenistic Age, it was also known as the “merchant’s stone” and was believed to attract prosperity and success in sales and business.
Roman jewelers used it for beautiful, polished jewelry and carved intaglios and cameos (engraved jewelry).
Citrine’s popularity continued into the Art Deco era between World War I and II, where its affordability made it a favorite in bold, statement jewelry pieces.
Choose your own Citrine gem quality and size for this stunning modern ring.
Natural citrine set in a 14K white gold pendant, with a row of tiny diamonds for that extra sparkle.
November birthstone jewelry
Now that you know more about the two November birthstones, you might be inspired to add them to your collection!
Both yellow topaz and citrine November birthstones come in a range of eye-catching colors and sizes.
Whether you are buying a November birthstone for yourself or your loved one, there are many affordable stunning jewelry pieces to choose from.
Lovely subtle olive branch jewelry combining your Citrine birthstone and white gold.
1.14 ct citrine (heat-treated amethyst) set in lovely leaf rhodium-plated silver ring, with added small zircons for extra blink.
November birthstone men’s jewelry
Men’s jewelry featuring November birthstones includes bold designs like signet rings or cufflinks set with citrine or yellow topaz for a sophisticated look.
Budget-friendly, great-looking synthetic heat-treated citrine stone set in 925 sterling silver and gold plated handmade ring.
Tumbled citrine stone cufflinks, handmade in US. Great way for men to add a citrine energy to your daily life.
November birthstone jewelry cleaning
Both topaz and citrine are generally durable and require no special care. However, to keep your jewelry beautiful for years to come, here are a few simple tips for care and cleaning:
- Avoid Strong Impact: While both topaz and citrine are reasonably hard stones, a direct hit on a sharp point or edge can still damage or scratch your gemstone. Do not wear your jewelry for any rough work.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep your birthstone jewelry away from household cleaners, perfumes, and other harsh chemicals that could damage the stones.
- Use Gentle Cleaning Methods: Clean your birthstone jewelry using warm water and mild soap. Use a soft cloth or a gentle brush to remove dirt. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Limit Exposure to heat: Protect your jewelry from extreme temperatures. For citrine, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can also affect its color. When not worn, store your jewelry out of direct sun.
- Storage: Store your gemstone jewelry in a soft pouch or a jewelry box lined with fabric to prevent scratches. Keep each piece separate to avoid tangling and damage.
- Regular Checks: Periodically check your jewelry for signs of damage or stones getting loose. If you notice any problems, take it to a professional jeweler for repairs.
With these simple rules, your November birthstone jewelry will look stunning and you will enjoy it for many years to come.
Small citrine necklace with diamonds for some sparkle.
Conclusion
Whether you are buying a November birthstone for yourself or your loved one, we hope to have given some more meaning to your birthday gemstone gifts.
Yellow topaz and citrine are lovely November birthstones that symbolize sunshine, positivity, wealth, and health – all great reasons to wear the birthstones regularly. They will remind you of your life’s blessings throughout the day.
Both birthstones for November are also durable and affordable. If you cannot choose, you might add both of them to your crystal jewelry collection!
Hint: If you check the jewelry on this page, you will notice why citrine was added as a “modern” replacement for yellow topaz – it is so much easier to find!
Either way: Happy birthday to you or your loved one!
