The November Topaz, as represented in the 2003 Barbie Birthstone Collection, holds a unique position as a collectible item linked to the tradition of birthstones. While the provided sources primarily detail the existence of various Barbie dolls representing each birthstone, they specifically identify the November doll as featuring topaz. This article will explore the available information regarding this doll and, by extension, the association of topaz with the month of November within the context of the Barbie collection. Due to the limited scope of the provided sources, this article will focus on the collectible aspect and the listing of the November Topaz Barbie, rather than a comprehensive gemological or historical overview of topaz itself.
The Barbie Birthstone Collection: A 2003 Release
In 2003, Mattel released the “Birthstone Collection,” a series of Collector Edition Barbie dolls, each representing a specific birthstone for each month of the year. The sources consistently identify this as a collector’s line, with multiple iterations of each doll designated by different product codes. For example, the November Topaz Barbie is listed with codes B2396, C0581, and C5329. This suggests variations in packaging or minor details within the same birthstone representation. The collection encompassed all twelve months, from January’s Garnet Barbie to September’s Sapphire Barbie, and included dolls for months such as May (Emerald), June (Pearl), and July (Ruby).
The sources indicate that the collection was a deliberate effort to link the popular Barbie brand with the established tradition of birthstones, appealing to collectors and those seeking unique gifts. The dolls were marketed as collectible items, and the multiple product codes suggest a degree of variation intended to encourage complete set acquisition.
Identifying the November Topaz Barbie
The sources specifically list three product codes associated with the November Topaz Barbie doll: B2396, C0581, and C5329. These codes serve as identifiers for the doll within Mattel’s product catalog and are useful for collectors seeking specific versions. The sources do not provide details regarding the doll’s appearance, attire, or accessories, only confirming its association with the November birthstone, topaz.
The listing of the doll within the Barbie fandom wiki and on uBuy.sc suggests its availability through various retail channels, both historically and currently. The uBuy.sc listing also mentions the possibility of splitting the purchase into installments, indicating a current market for the doll.
Mattel’s Support and Resources
Mattel provides technical support and customer service resources related to its products, including the Barbie Birthstone Collection. The sources point to Mattel’s website as a hub for product information, replacement parts, product registration, and recall/safety information. This demonstrates Mattel’s commitment to supporting its customers and ensuring product safety. The website also offers links to other Mattel brands, such as American Girl, Hot Wheels, and Fisher-Price, showcasing the company’s diverse product portfolio.
Availability and Purchasing Options
The provided sources indicate that the November Topaz Barbie doll is available for purchase through online retailers like uBuy.sc. The listing on this platform includes information about shipping options and payment plans. The availability of replacement parts through Mattel’s website suggests that the company recognizes the collectible nature of these dolls and provides support for maintaining them.
The Significance of Birthstones and Mattel’s Collection
The Barbie Birthstone Collection taps into the long-standing tradition of associating gemstones with specific months of the year. While the origins of this tradition are complex and varied, it has become a popular cultural practice, with birthstones often given as gifts to commemorate birthdays or other significant occasions. By creating a collection of Barbie dolls representing each birthstone, Mattel effectively merged a beloved toy brand with a cherished cultural tradition.
The sources do not delve into the historical or metaphysical significance of topaz itself. However, the very act of associating the November Barbie with topaz reinforces the gemstone’s connection to the month of November in the popular imagination.
A Table of November Topaz Barbie Product Codes
| Product Code |
|---|
| B2396 |
| C0581 |
| C5329 |
This table summarizes the product codes identified in the sources for the November Topaz Barbie doll, providing a concise reference for collectors.
Conclusion
The November Topaz Barbie doll, part of the 2003 Mattel Birthstone Collection, represents a unique intersection of collectible toys and the tradition of birthstones. The provided sources primarily focus on the identification of the doll through various product codes and its availability through online retailers. While the sources do not offer detailed information about the doll’s design or the gemological properties of topaz, they highlight the doll’s status as a collectible item and Mattel’s commitment to supporting its products. The collection as a whole demonstrates a successful marketing strategy that leveraged a popular cultural tradition to enhance the appeal of the Barbie brand. The November Topaz Barbie remains a sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts of both Barbie dolls and birthstone lore.