November - a season of cozy sweaters, cinnamon-scented candles, and fall in full swing; this month is celebrated by the autumn-hued Citrine and Topaz gemstone.
A Little Bit About Topaz...
The birthstone for the month of November is the exquisite topaz, a gem found in a rainbow of colors including blue, orange, pink, violet, brown and, very rarely, red. Blue topaz is the most common today, and is often seen in an electric blue color.
According to the Gemological Institute of America, it is believed by some that the word “topaz” comes from the Sanskrit word tapas, which means “fire.” Others have traced it back to the Greek word topazos which symbolizes strength.
Topaz gemstones are most notably found in Minas Gerais, a state of Brazil. For more than 200 years Minas Gerais is one of the most important sources for its range of high-quality and brilliant topaz.
Other major sources of this November birthstone include Namibia, Pakistan, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and the United States, as well as the historic Russian localities.
When it comes to durability, this gem ranks an 8 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Although it ranks high in hardness, the topaz lacks toughness and should still be worn with care. We recommend a regular cleaning with warm, soapy water to keep your gorgeous gemstone shining bright - and of course, stopping in store whenever you're in town for a complimentary cleaning!
What About Citrine?
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) tells the history of this golden-toned gem as, "In the days before modern gemology, its tawny color caused it to be confused with topaz. Today, its attractive color, plus the durability and affordability it shares with most other quartzes, makes it the top-selling yellow-to-orange gem. In the contemporary market, citrine’s most popular shade is an earthy, deep, brownish or reddish orange."
It was believed that Citrine brought soothing energies and a calming balance.
The ancient Greeks carved rock crystal ornaments that glistened like permafrost. Roman pontiffs wore rings set with massive purple amethysts, and citrine has been reported in Roman jewelry.
It was particularly popular in colorful Scottish jewelry from the Victorian era. Citrine, believed to derive from the French word for “lemon” (citron), is given for the thirteenth wedding anniversary.
The top sources for this November birthstone are Bolivia, Spain, Madagascar, Mexico and Uruguay.
At 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness with good toughness, your citrine birthstone is usually durable enough for normal wear and care. It can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water, or brought into our store to have it professionally cleaned.
