November brings with it the crisp fall air, a prelude to winter, and for those born in this transitional month, not just one, but two radiant birthstones: Topaz and Citrine. Both stones, with their warm hues, mirror the golden leaves of autumn, offering a personal touchstone to those celebrating another trip around the sun.
The Royal Topaz: A November Birthstone Classic
When one inquires about the “real” birthstone for November, the answer often points to the ancient and noble topaz. Topaz comes in a variety of colors, but it’s the imperial yellow or the precious orange-pink “Imperial Topaz” that traditionally represents November babies. Topaz has a rich legacy, associated with strength and wisdom. In ancient times, it was believed to have the power to cool boiling water and to calm the wearer’s temper.
Historically, this gem has been synonymous with luxury and opulence. It has adorned the crowns and jewelry of Russian tsars and has been a recurrent figure in royal collections throughout history. Its durability, ranking 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, makes it not just a symbol of lasting beauty, but also a practical choice for everyday jewelry.
The Luminous Citrine: November’s Golden Alternative
Citrine, often mistaken for topaz due to its similar golden color, is the modern alternative for November’s birthstone. This stone, ranging from pale yellow to brownish-orange, is actually a variety of quartz. Its name derives from the French word for lemon (“citron”), though its color is more golden than sour lemon.
Citrine carries its own lore and allure. It’s known as the “healing quartz,” believed to promote vitality and energy in those who wear it. Merchants’ stone, they sometimes call it, for it’s also associated with prosperity and success. Citrine has gained popularity not only for its vibrant color and affordability but also because it is readily available in large sizes, making it perfect for statement pieces.
Topaz vs. Citrine: How to Choose this Autumn Birthstone?
For those seeking to celebrate a November birthday with a birthstone, the choice between topaz and citrine can be personal. Topaz may appeal to the traditionalist or the lover of classic elegance, while citrine attracts those drawn to its lively color and vivacious energy.
When selecting a November birthstone, consider the following:
Color Preferences – Topaz offers a broader spectrum, while citrine stays in the warm yellow range.
Budget: Citrine is generally more affordable than topaz, especially when compared to larger stones.
Symbolism: Both stones have different histories and symbolic meanings; choose the one that resonates most with you.
Birthstones: Topaz, Citrine, Cat’s Eye & Pearl
Topaz is an ancient birthstone dating back centuries. Topaz and Citrine are considered the modern birthstones, with Topaz and Pearl the traditional ones. Cat’s Eye is the Indian Hindu birthstone and Pearl is the Tibetan one. If you, or a special person in your life, were born in November, there are no fewer than FOUR birthstones from which to choose a birthday gift.
They are Topaz Citrine Cat’s Eye & Pearl. Pearl is also the traditional birthstone for June, incidentally.
TOPAZ (Mohs Hardness Scale – 8)
Who first comes to this world below With drear November’s fog and snow, Should prize the topaz’s amber hue, Emblem of friends and lovers true. (Gregorian birthstone poem).
Colors: Topaz comes in a variety of colors, from colorless, blue, yellow, orange, pink, violet, brown and, very rarely, red. Most blue topaz is made by treating colorless topaz with irradiation and heating.
Imperial topaz, mined in Russia’s Ural Mountains comes in a pinkish-orange color.
The semi-precious gemstone topaz occurs in a relatively wide range of colors including yellow, yellow-brown, green, blue, red, pink as well simply colorless topaz. It is one of the gemstones forming the foundations of the twelve gates to the Holy City of the New Jerusalem. These so-called apocalyptic stones are intended to serve as protection against enemies and as a symbol of beauty and splendor. A fabulous example of Topaz beauty is the designer creation by H. Stern. H.Stern Multicolor Gemstones 18K Yellow Gold Rainbow Necklace
The Greek name for topaz is “topazos’meaning “green gemstone” which the ancient Romans dedicated to Jupiter.
First mined in Germany in the early 18th century, the gemstone was referred to as “Schnecfkenstein” meaning “snail stone” due to the resemblance of the topaz-bearing rocks to snails! In mystical terms, the gemstone is believed to dispel sadness, anger, and nocturnal fears.
Queen Victoria was a catalyst in adorning traditional Scottish Kilt pins with this popular gemstone. In 1852, she and her husband, Prince Albert, welcomed many guests to their new summer residence in the Scottish Highlands known as Balmoral Castle. Queen Victoria was so fond of Scotland and the traditions of her new – found Castle, she frequently requested her guests drape themselves in Traditional full Highland plaid attire, boasting over-sized shoulder brooches rich in her favorite citrine gemstones.
Here is delicate pair of Vintage GIA 10.60cts Imperial Topaz Diamond 18K Gold Earrings in our collection
If you prefer blue topaz, we also carry these modern heart-shaped blue topaz earrings from designer Marina B.
Blue topaz is also the gem of the 4th wedding anniversary.
CITRINE (Mohs Hardness scale – 7)
Colors: Citrine comes in transparent lemon yellow, honey yellow to brownish-orange and is a type of quartz. Its depth of color comes from the amount of iron present in the quartz crystals.
Citrine is also the gem ascribed to the 13th wedding anniversary. Perhaps she would like this Marco Bicego Paradise 18K Yellow Gold Necklace – full of her natural birthstone.
The semi-precious gemstone citrine derives its name from the word “citron” meaning lemon. The darker orange nuance of citrine is referred to as “Madeira citrine” named after the color of the renowned wine and is generally considered to be the most valuable color of this gemstone.
In ancient times citrine was carried as a protection against snake poison and evil thought! Citrine rose again in prominence during the Art Deco / Retro period that began in the early part of the 20th century. Large faceted citrines of geometric cuts were found in all forms of Jewelry, especially those more opulent pieces worn by the Silver Screen artists of Hollywood. Relatively cost-effective, the warm honey-colored beauties made fabulous statements when cut into oversized geometric designs.
CAT’S EYE (Mohs Hardness Scale – 8.5)
Colors: Cat’s Eye gemstones can come in blue, red, yellow, green, orange, brown, pink, purple, grey, and multi-colored. The term cat’s eye refers to a stone polished into a cabochon with a narrow band of light across its width – hence the name. Chrysoberyl is the best known and most popular type of cat’s eye gemstone.
Does he have a November birthday? We have the perfect gift for him. It is a men’s retro vintage cat’s eye-ring.
PEARL (Mohs Hardness Scale – 2.5. Scratches easily)
Who doesn’t love pearls? If you are opting for the Tibetan birthstone for November, we have many pieces for you to consider. Though not suitable for everyday wear due to their softness, pearls have been harvested for centuries for use in jewelry and in clothing.
Akoya pearls are salt-water, cultured pearls made from the Akoya oyster. South Sea pearls are generally white, silver or golden in color, and they are harvested in Australia, Indonesia and the Philippines. Tahitian pearls come in a variety of more exotic colors such as black, green, grey and silver and are cultured in saltwater around the French Polynesian islands. Freshwater pearls are produced in oysters that live in lakes or ponds. They are not as round as saltwater pearls, so they are less expensive. Wild natural pearls have small imperfections and variations and are prized the most.
Let us give you some options at different price points. We welcome your perusal of our vast vintage and estate Pearl collection
- This is a magnificent classic pearl necklace. It’s timeless and always makes a superb gift.
- From gorgeous, Stefan Hafner designed South Sea Pearl and diamond earrings…
- … to a fabulous Big Bold and Beautiful Pearl Cocktail Ring and a more modest vintage Platinum Pearl Ring
In Conclusion
November’s birthstones are as unique as the individuals born in this month. Whether you are drawn to the serene topaz or the effervescent citrine, these gems offer a personal connection to nature’s autumnal palette. Both exude warmth and positive energy, making them perfect for celebrating personal milestones or simply adding a touch of November’s glow to your everyday life.
No matter which you choose, embracing the true essence of November’s birthstones is about finding the piece that speaks to you, offering a daily reminder of your own resilience and radiance.
In Celebration of this Month’s birthdays, we invite you to Contact Us or visit our Promotional Sale Event Featuring an Exquisite Collection of
Antique, Estate, Vintage and Contemporary November Birthstone Jewelry.
Let us help you find a gift that shows how much you love your November “baby.”
It is sure to be treasured for a lifetime.
