November is a month steeped in symbolism, representing transition, gratitude, and unity. Reflecting this multifaceted nature, the month boasts not one, but two recognized birthstones: topaz and citrine. Both gemstones, with their warm hues and rich histories, offer wearers a connection to the energies of the season and a legacy of meaning stretching back centuries. This article will delve into the origins, properties, historical significance, and modern appreciation of these captivating November birthstones.
History and Lore
The association of gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, with early connections found in Biblical texts listing twelve gemstones. Initially, topaz held sole claim as the November birthstone, a tradition maintained for centuries across various cultures, including Russian, Polish, Hebrew, and old Arabic traditions. The practice of wearing birthstones gained prominence in the 1500s, and formalized lists began to emerge in the 19th century. Tiffany & Co.’s 1870 publication of “Gregorian Birthstone Poems” specifically designated topaz for November.
However, the 20th century brought a change. In 1912, citrine was added as a secondary November birthstone, largely due to a scarcity of imperial topaz – a rarer golden-pink variety. This addition provided an affordable alternative while maintaining the month’s association with warm, golden tones. Historically, the color yellow itself was considered lucky to carry during November, aligning with the vibrant hues of both topaz and citrine. Ancient Romans celebrated festivals throughout November, including those honoring Jupiter and the winter solstice, while Anglo-Saxons referred to the month as Blōtmōnaþ, linked to blood sacrifice. These traditions, alongside modern holidays like Thanksgiving and Veterans Day, contribute to November’s symbolism of transition and gratitude.
Geological Formation and Sources
Topaz is a mineral composed of aluminum silicate and fluorine. It is found in a variety of geological settings, including igneous and metamorphic rocks, and often occurs in pegmatites – coarse-grained igneous rocks. Significant sources of topaz include Brazil, Russia, Sri Lanka, and Mexico. The diverse range of colors found in topaz is a result of trace elements and structural defects within the crystal lattice.
Citrine, a variety of quartz, forms in volcanic rocks. It is often created naturally through the heat treatment of amethyst, where the purple hue transforms into a golden yellow. Major sources of citrine include Brazil, Bolivia, and Madagascar. While natural citrine exists, the vast majority of the bright yellow citrine available commercially is heat-treated amethyst.
Gemological Properties
Both topaz and citrine possess distinct gemological properties that contribute to their beauty and durability.
Topaz:
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₄(OH,F)₂
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 8
- Color: Colorless, yellow, orange, brown, red, pink, violet, blue. Blue topaz is often created through irradiation and heating of colorless topaz.
- Pleochroism: Topaz exhibits pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different crystal directions.
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
Citrine:
- Chemical Formula: SiO₂
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 7
- Color: Yellow to brownish-orange.
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
The hardness of both stones makes them suitable for a variety of jewelry applications, though topaz, being slightly harder, is more resistant to scratching.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, both topaz and citrine have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Topaz, with its golden hues, has long been associated with strength, protection, and vitality. Ancient Greeks believed it enhanced strength, while in India, it symbolized courage and wisdom and was believed to assure long life, beauty, and intelligence when worn above the heart. Europeans from the 1300s to the 1600s thought topaz could ward off magic spells and dispel anger.
Citrine, often linked to the sun, is considered a crystal of manifestation, sparking imagination, clearing the mind, and promoting prosperity. It is believed not to hold negative energy, raising the mood of any space it occupies. In Hindu tradition, cat’s eye, a traditional November birthstone, stimulates intuition and amplifies good fortune. Similarly, pearl, another ancient Tibetan November birthstone, symbolizes purity and love, offering calming and centering energy.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their respective hardness levels, both topaz and citrine require careful handling and cleaning. Topaz, with a Mohs hardness of 8, is relatively durable but can still be scratched by harder materials. Citrine, with a hardness of 7, is slightly less resistant to scratching.
To clean both gemstones, a soft brush and warm, soapy water are recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stones. It is also advisable to store topaz and citrine jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause light lemon shades of citrine to fade, so storing jewelry out of direct sunlight when not worn is recommended.
Beyond Topaz and Citrine: Historical November Birthstones
While topaz and citrine are the modern birthstones for November, historical traditions recognized other gemstones for this month. Cat’s eye, a traditional Hindu birthstone, was believed to stimulate intuition and promote good fortune. Pearl, the ancient Tibetan birthstone, symbolized purity and love, offering a calming energy. These historical associations demonstrate the evolving nature of birthstone traditions and the diverse cultural beliefs surrounding gemstones.
Distinguishing Natural from Treated Citrine
It’s important to note that much of the citrine available today is heat-treated amethyst. Determining whether a citrine is natural or treated can be done with a simple test: swiping an acetone-damp cotton swab on the back of the stone. If dye bleeds, the stone is likely treated. Natural citrine will remain clean.
Conclusion
November’s birthstones, topaz and citrine, represent a beautiful duality – strength and abundance, clarity and joy. From their ancient origins and rich symbolism to their modern appeal in jewelry, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire. Whether chosen for their aesthetic beauty, their perceived metaphysical properties, or simply for their connection to the month of November, topaz and citrine offer a lasting legacy of warmth and positivity.