November Birthstones 2021 – Topaz and Citrine

It’s a new month and you know what that means – new birthstones. If you’re a November baby, this blog post is just for you. November’s birthstones consist of topaz and citrine. If you’re interested in learning more about November’s birthstones then read further. Here is everything you need to know about November’s birthstones, topaz, and citrine: 

 

 Topaz

Amber Topaz.
Amber Topaz.

Topaz was the original birthstone for November until citrine came along. 

Where is topaz on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness?

Topaz is an 8 on the Mohs scale. For those who are new to our monthly birthstone blog posts, the Mohs scale tells you how hard a gemstone is. Therefore, topaz is considered to be quite a durable stone. The strength of the topaz allows you to wear it in any kind of jewelry from rings to pendants and earrings for everyday use. 

What color is topaz? 

The topaz comes in a range of colors, they range from colorless to blues, greens, and browns. When comparing the price tag of topaz, these colors are less expensive compared to imperial topaz.

What is imperial topaz? The term ‘imperial topaz’ comes from the Russians as there are parts of Russia where a lot of this type of topaz is mined. Imperial topaz ranges from pink to orange-red. Red topaz is considered to be extremely rare. So much so that they’re found in museums. 

 

Colored Topaz.
Topaz Color Range. (Image Source: With Clarity)

What famous topaz is found in the museum? 

The 97.5-carat Blaze Imperial Topaz 

Blaze Imperial Topaz.
Image Source: Pinterest

Where is topaz mined? 

Topaz is mined throughout the world with deposits found in Brazil, the United States, Madagascar, Myanmar, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Russia, and China.  

What does topaz represent?

The ancient Greeks believed that topaz represented strength. Whereas, the ancient Europeans thought that the topaz would break magic spells. 

Shop Topaz Jewelry

 

Citrine

Citrine.
Amber Citrine.

When it comes to the price tag of citrine, the gemstone is relatively inexpensive compared to topaz. 

Where is citrine on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness?

Citrine is a 7 on the Mohs scale. Slightly softer compared to topaz although not as soft as the birthstones we’ve seen in the month of October. This means that citrine is in the green for being set in any piece of jewelry for everyday use. 

What color is citrine? 

Citrine is quartz, it comes in a variety of Fall colors from yellow to a darker orange.

Colored Citrine.
Citrine Color Range. (Image Source: Enstock2n)

Although if you’re not one for Fall colors, citrine and amethyst are found in the same stone known as ametrine. Choosing an ametrine gives you an ombré choice of stone in the contrasting shades of colors purple and orange. 

Ametrine.
Ametrine.

Where is citrine mined? 

Citrine is mined throughout the world with the majority of it being mined in Brazil. 

Who commonly wears citrine? 

In the Scottish culture, the majority of the kilts that are worn today are held by citrine brooches. 

Huge Scottish Tartan Sash Kilt Pin Brooch.
Scottish Tartan Sash Kilt Pin Brooch.

 

Did You Know? Citrine is the traditional gift for the 13th wedding anniversary. 

What does citrine represent? 

Citrine is said to represent a healthy mind and body as well as happiness and success. The Chinese refer to the citrine as the success stone. 

Shop Citrine Jewelry

Are you a November baby? Do you own any topaz and/ or citrine jewelry? Do you own both? Which do you prefer? Let us know by clicking the comments button below.

Written by Bianca Mac Donald 

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