The month of November is unique in the world of birthstones, boasting not one, but two: Topaz and Citrine. Both gemstones are frequently found in shades of orange and yellow, leading to occasional confusion, yet each possesses a distinct history and allure. This article explores the presence of these November birthstones as depicted through artistic representations, alongside a summary of their known characteristics as presented in available sources. The focus will be on their appearance in art, particularly dragon-themed creations, and a brief overview of their gemological properties and historical context.
Historical and Artistic Representations
The association of Topaz and Citrine with November is a relatively modern convention. However, both stones have a long history of use and symbolism. Artistic depictions of these gems, particularly in fantastical forms like dragons, demonstrate their enduring appeal. Several artists have been inspired by these birthstones, creating unique interpretations.
One artist, Boglarka Zilahi (posting as hikigane), created a commission piece titled “Lord Topaz,” a “very cuddly and gay” dragon doll. This piece highlights the artistic license taken when representing gemstones, imbuing the stone’s namesake with personality and form. Similarly, Ariel Blyth (posting as Arukanoda) designed a Topaz dragon described as an “aquatic dwelling Eastern” with a “gorgeous golden sheen,” playfully dubbed the “almighty salmon thief.” This depiction connects the gemstone to a specific environment and character, showcasing its visual qualities through imaginative design.
Citrine also finds representation in dragon art. Amaze-ing Hats created a November Dragon, noted by commenters for its resemblance to the Pokémon Dragonite. Katarzyna Mielnik-Grzybowska and Mariusz Frodyma of Lunarieen Ltd. crafted pendants featuring dragon-wing designs incorporating both Citrine (“Axghasthar – Silver and Citrine”) and Blue Topaz (“Anghthar Dragni – Silver and [Blue] Topaz”), demonstrating a deliberate pairing of the two birthstones in their artistic work. Jen Elliott (posting as jocarra) created a Blue Topaz dragon for Endless Realms, a pen-and-paper RPG, attributing “mental, spiritual, and psionic power” qualities to the stone.
Stephanie Pride’s Dragon Brooch, featuring blue topaz, and its accompanying Dragon Chain, further illustrate the artistic connection between these gemstones and mythical creatures. These examples demonstrate a consistent theme: the use of Topaz and Citrine as inspiration for fantastical, often dragon-themed, artwork.
Gemological Properties: Topaz and Citrine
While artistic interpretations abound, understanding the fundamental properties of Topaz and Citrine is crucial. Sources indicate that distinguishing between cut Citrine and yellow Topaz can be visually challenging, but they differ in hardness.
Citrine is identified as a variety of quartz. Natural citrines are considered rare, with most commercially available stones being heat-treated amethysts or smoky quartzes. This process alters the color of the original stone to achieve the desired yellow or orange hue.
Topaz, conversely, naturally occurs in orange hues, making it the traditional birthstone for November. However, naturally occurring blue topaz is relatively rare. To obtain darker blue shades, light-colored topaz stones are often heat-treated and irradiated. This process enhances the color, creating the more sought-after darker blue varieties. The artistic representations often feature both natural and treated varieties, showcasing the range of colors available.
Symbolism and Lore
The sources touch upon the symbolism associated with these stones, though details are limited. Jen Elliott specifically chose blue topaz for a dragon representing a “mage-priest of dragons” based on its attributed “mental, spiritual, and psionic power” qualities. This suggests a belief in the stone’s ability to enhance psychic abilities or spiritual awareness. The description of Ariel Blyth’s Topaz dragon as a “noble visage” hints at a perception of the stone as representing nobility or grandeur.
The connection to dragons themselves adds another layer of symbolism. Dragons are often associated with power, wisdom, and protection, qualities that may be transferred to the gemstones they represent. The artistic depictions often portray dragons as majestic and powerful creatures, reinforcing these associations.
Commercial Context
One source provides information regarding wholesale discounts for cross-stitch kits, including those potentially featuring designs inspired by these gemstones. This indicates a commercial market for crafts and artwork related to Topaz and Citrine, catering to both retailers and individual customers. The availability of wholesale discounts suggests a growing demand for these types of products.
Conclusion
Topaz and Citrine, the birthstones of November, hold a unique place in both gemology and artistic expression. While the provided sources offer a limited scope of information, they reveal a consistent theme: the enduring appeal of these gemstones as sources of inspiration for artists, particularly in the creation of fantastical dragon-themed artwork. The stones’ inherent beauty, combined with their historical and symbolic associations, continues to captivate and inspire, solidifying their status as cherished birthstones. The artistic representations demonstrate a creative exploration of the gemstones’ colors and perceived qualities, enriching their cultural significance.