November Birthstones: Yellow Topaz And Citrine Birthstone
November born have two beautiful November birthstones to choose from. Yellow topaz symbolizes wealth and well-being. Citrine is 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.
Table of Contents
What is the birthstone for November born?
The traditional November birthstone is a yellow topaz. Since the 1910s, citrine has become popular as an alternative November gemstone. It is more accessible and affordable and has the same lovely yellow color.
Yellow topaz and natural citrine are often confused. They both have very similar light yellow colors, but they are two different stones. They are both hard and durable enough for daily wear. So, they are perfect for crafting 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 stones found in nature.
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. They are very rare in nature, which is why they are often artificially created. Color is added by treating colorless or pale yellow topaz with irradiation and heat.
The largest deposits of topaz are in Brazil. Other significant mines are in Brazil, Russia, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and the United States.
The Smithsonian Institute displays some of the largest, finest topaz crystals. They weigh 31.8 kg (70 lb) and 50.4 kg (111 lb), respectively. The institute also has a 22,892.5-carat faceted yellow topaz, the “American Golden.”
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 is light yellow. Heat-treated varieties are dark golden 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. Their hues warm the heart and soul and bring good vibes.
The heat-treated citrine is a darker honey-gold yellow. Its earthy tones 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,” due to its vibrant orange and golden hues. Another origin theory links it to Topazios, the name of a small Greek island in the Red Sea, where topaz was once mined.
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 wanting to boost 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, people keep it in homes to guard against fires and misfortune. Many also put it under pillows to ward off nightmares.
Topaz’s qualities made it popular with royalty and leaders. They wore it in crowns and rings to symbolize 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 see citrine as a symbol of sunlight. It brings 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 has the sun’s healing power. They wear it to improve their health, both physical and emotional.
Citrine’s warm energy soothes stress. It comforts, 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 is known as the “money stone” or “merchant’s stone.” People often put it in money bags or purses to attract wealth.
November birthstones history
Yellow topaz birthstone history
Yellow topaz has been valued for centuries across different cultures. Ancient Egyptians linked the stone to the sun god Ra. They said he gave it protective and healing powers.
Scholar Pliny the Elder included topaz in his Natural History encyclopedia. This 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
From ancient times, citrine was known as the “healing quartz”. It was carried as a protection against snake venom, negative thoughts, and heartache.
To Greek traders during the Hellenistic Age, citrine was also known as the “merchant’s stone”. It was believed to attract prosperity and success in sales and business.
Roman jewelers used it for beautiful, polished jewelry. Their carved intaglios and cameos (engraved jewelry) are popular items even today.
Citrine’s popularity continued into the Art Deco era between World War I and II. Its affordability made it a favorite stone for 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 about the two November birthstones, you might want to add them to your collection!
Both yellow topaz and citrine November birthstones come in a range of eye-catching colors and sizes.
If you’re 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 with November birthstones includes bold designs. Try 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: Both topaz and citrine are reasonably hard stones. But 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 and perfumes. These and other harsh chemicals could damage the stones.
- Use Gentle Cleaning Methods: Use a soft cloth or a gentle brush to remove dirt. Then clean your birthstone jewelry using warm water and mild soap. 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. Keep each piece separate to avoid tangling and to prevent scratches.
- Regular Checks: Check your jewelry regularly for damage or loose stones. If you notice any problems, take it to a professional jeweler for repairs.
These simple rules will keep your November birthstone jewelry looking stunning. You will enjoy it for many years to come.
Small citrine necklace with diamonds for some sparkle.
Conclusion
If you’re buying a November birthstone for yourself or a loved one, we hope this article added meaning to your gifts.
Yellow topaz and citrine are lovely November birthstones. They symbolize sunshine, positivity, wealth, and health. So, wear them often! They will remind you of your life’s blessings throughout the day.
Both birthstones for November are also durable and affordable. If you can’t 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!
