November boasts not one, but two recognized birthstones: citrine and topaz. While historically, yellowish topaz held the sole designation, the addition of citrine in the early 20th century provided a more accessible and vibrant option for those born in the eleventh month. Both gemstones offer a warm, inviting aesthetic, steeped in history and symbolic meaning. This article will explore the geological origins, gemological properties, historical lore, and modern significance of these golden November birthstones.
History and Lore
For a significant period, topaz, specifically in its yellowish shades, was considered the exclusive birthstone for November. This tradition continued until the early 1900s. However, the market became flooded with inexpensive, heat-treated blue topaz, prompting jewelers to seek a more distinctive and readily available alternative. The National Association of Jewelers addressed this by adding citrine to the official birthstone list in 1912, ensuring that November birthdays could still be celebrated with an affordable, sunny gem.
The decision to include citrine wasn’t merely a commercial one. November births fall within the zodiac signs of Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) and Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21). Both signs are known for their creativity and strategic thinking, often embracing unconventional approaches. Sagittarians, in particular, are associated with expansive energy, and citrine is believed to help balance this energy, aligning individuals with their creative goals.
Prior to the modern era, citrine was often mistaken for topaz, potentially contributing to its adoption as a November birthstone alongside its golden counterpart. Ancient Greeks believed opal, a different gemstone, held the gift of prophecy and offered protection against disease, referring to it as opallios, meaning “to see a change in color.” While this relates to a different stone, it highlights the historical association of color-changing phenomena with positive attributes.
Geological Formation and Sources
Citrine is a variety of quartz, closely related to amethyst, rose quartz, and smoky quartz. Most citrine available today is actually heat-treated amethyst. The process transforms the purple hues of amethyst into the yellows and oranges characteristic of citrine. The yellow or orange coloration in citrine is attributed to the presence of iron. This gemstone is found in a variety of shades, ranging from pale honey to a deep reddish-orange.
Citrine’s primary sources include Brazil, Bolivia, and Spain. It is considered one of the most plentiful and affordable gemstones, making it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative objects.
Topaz, similarly, is found in a variety of colors, though yellow and orange are the most traditional for November. Natural yellow or orange topaz is less common, and many topaz gemstones undergo treatment to achieve desired colors. One such treatment, known as “mystic topaz,” involves applying an artificial coating to create an iridescent, oil-slick effect, typically used in costume jewelry.
Tourmaline, mentioned in relation to October’s birthstones, is also found in Brazil, Afghanistan, East Africa, and the United States. While not a primary November birthstone, its diverse color range and presence in similar geological locations provide context to the broader world of gemstone formation.
Gemological Properties
Both citrine and topaz belong to different mineral groups, resulting in distinct gemological properties.
Citrine:
- Mineral: Quartz (SiO₂)
- Color: Yellow to reddish-orange
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 7
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
Topaz:
- Mineral: Fluoride (Al₂SiO₄(OH,F)₂)
- Color: Yellow, orange, blue, pink, and colorless (natural colors vary)
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 8
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Transparency: Transparent
The difference in hardness is notable. Topaz, with a Mohs hardness of 8, is more durable than citrine (hardness of 7), making it less susceptible to scratches and abrasion. This difference is important to consider when selecting jewelry and determining appropriate care methods.
A comparison of hardness on the Mohs scale is shown below:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Talc | 1 |
| Gypsum | 2 |
| Calcite | 3 |
| Fluorite | 4 |
| Apatite | 5 |
| Orthoclase | 6 |
| Quartz | 7 (Citrine) |
| Topaz | 8 |
| Corundum | 9 |
| Diamond | 10 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Citrine is often referred to as the “healing quartz” and is believed to support vitality and health. It is associated with hope, energy, and warmth, encouraging positivity within the wearer. Its bright, cheerful colors are thought to inspire optimism and fill one with energy.
Topaz, particularly yellow topaz, has historically been associated with strength and intellect. While specific metaphysical beliefs vary, the gemstone is generally considered to promote clarity of thought and emotional balance.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 7, citrine is relatively durable but can still be scratched by harder materials. Cleaning citrine jewelry is straightforward: warm, soapy water and a soft brush are generally sufficient. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Topaz, with its higher hardness of 8, is more resistant to scratching. However, it exhibits perfect basal cleavage, meaning it can be split along a specific plane. Therefore, avoid subjecting topaz jewelry to sudden impacts. Cleaning can be performed using warm, soapy water and a soft brush, similar to citrine.
Conclusion
Citrine and topaz, the dual birthstones of November, represent a harmonious blend of warmth, energy, and historical significance. From the practical considerations of market availability to the symbolic associations of creativity and balance, these gemstones offer a rich tapestry of meaning for those born in the eleventh month. Whether one prefers the vibrant hues of citrine or the golden glow of topaz, both stones provide a beautiful and meaningful connection to the natural world and the traditions surrounding birthstones.