November is unique among the calendar months in possessing two recognized birthstones: topaz and citrine. Both gemstones offer a spectrum of warm and inviting colors, and have been valued for their beauty and perceived properties for centuries. While topaz historically held the sole designation for November, citrine was added in 1952, offering those born in this month a choice between these radiant gems. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of both topaz and citrine, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The history of both topaz and citrine is interwoven with ancient beliefs and evolving traditions. Topaz’s name is believed to originate from the Sanskrit word tapas, meaning “fire,” or from the Greek topazos. Ancient Greeks attributed strength-giving properties to the stone, while Europeans from the 1300s to the 1600s believed it could ward off magic spells and quell anger. In India, wearing topaz above the heart was thought to ensure a long life, beauty, and intelligence.
Citrine’s history is similarly rich, though often intertwined with that of topaz due to their similar coloration. Both stones were used in jewelry for thousands of years, and were often mistaken for one another. As a result, citrine was often credited with the same powers as topaz, including the ability to soothe tempers and calm the wearer. The practice of assigning gemstones to specific months began in the 1st and 5th centuries, inspired by Biblical lists of twelve gemstones, with topaz initially designated for November. Formalized modern birthstone lists emerged in 1870 with a pamphlet released by Tiffany & Co., which also featured topaz as the November stone. Citrine’s inclusion as a November birthstone came later, solidifying the duo’s place in contemporary gemological tradition.
Geological Formation and Sources
Topaz is formed in igneous rocks, often within volcanic pipes, and can also be found in metamorphic rocks. Significant deposits are found in Namibia, Nigeria, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the United States, and historically in Russia. The Ural and Ilmen mountains of Russia are noted historical sources.
Citrine, a variety of quartz, forms in volcanic rocks. Brazil is currently the largest supplier of citrine, though much of the Brazilian material is heat-treated amethyst. Natural citrine can also be found in the Ural Mountains of Russia, Dauphiné, France, and Madagascar. Other sources include Spain, Bolivia, and the United States (Colorado, North Carolina, and California), with varying shades produced by different geographical locations.
Notable examples of significant topaz specimens include The Chalmers Topaz, housed in the Field Museum in Chicago, weighing 5,899.50 carats, and the Moon of Maraba, a 25,250-carat grey topaz believed to originate from Brazil.
Gemological Properties
Topaz boasts a chemical formula that allows for a wide range of colors, including colorless, light blue, yellow, orange, pink, violet, brown, and, rarely, red. The blue topaz commonly seen today is often created through irradiation and heating of colorless topaz, a permanent treatment. A coating can also be applied to colorless topaz to create a rainbow effect, known as “Mystic Topaz.” Topaz registers an 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, indicating good durability, but it possesses poor toughness, making it susceptible to chipping or cracking.
Citrine, a variety of quartz, ranges in color from light yellow to deep, earthy orange, dependent on its iron content. Natural citrine is relatively rare; most citrine on the market is produced by heat-treating amethyst, a more common and affordable quartz variety. Citrine has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable against scratches and everyday wear.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties:
| Property | Topaz | Citrine |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Al₂SiO₄(OH,F)₂ | SiO₂ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8 | 7 |
| Toughness | Poor | Good |
| Common Colors | Blue, Yellow, Orange | Yellow, Orange |
| Transparency | Transparent | Transparent |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Both topaz and citrine are associated with calming energies and warmth. Citrine is specifically linked to manifestation – bringing one’s desires into reality – and releasing fears. Rhodochrosite, associated with the zodiac sign Scorpio, is also suggested as an alternative November birthstone, linked to the heart chakra and promoting love and forgiveness. The month of November itself symbolizes transition, unity, and gratitude, qualities that resonate with the perceived energies of these gemstones.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of both topaz and citrine. Topaz, despite its hardness, requires careful handling to avoid chipping or cracking. Steam cleaning and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided. Warm, soapy water is the recommended cleaning method. Prolonged exposure to heat or sunlight may cause fading in some yellow-to-brown topaz varieties. Topaz may also be affected by certain chemicals. The coating on Mystic Topaz is particularly delicate and can be removed by abrasive cleaners or buffing wheels; only a mild soap solution should be used for cleaning.
Citrine, being more durable, is suitable for use in most jewelry and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. However, like many gems, steam or ultrasonic cleaning should be avoided.
Conclusion
Topaz and citrine, the birthstones of November, represent a captivating blend of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From ancient beliefs in their protective powers to their modern association with warmth and tranquility, these gemstones continue to hold a special place in the hearts of those born in the eleventh month. Their affordability and availability make them accessible to a wide range of jewelry enthusiasts, ensuring that the radiant beauty of November’s birthstones can be enjoyed by all.