November Birthstones: The Warm Glow of Topaz and Citrine
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- Angara Swiss Blue Topaz Pendant with Diamond Halo in 14K White Gold
- Peora 14K Yellow Gold Citrine Stud Earrings 2.00 Carats
- Ross-Simons Imperial Topaz Ring with Diamond Accents
- Gem Stone King Citrine Tennis Bracelet in Sterling Silver
- Dazzlingrock Collection London Blue Topaz Drop Earrings in 10K Gold
- FANCIME 14K Yellow Gold Citrine Cocktail Ring
- Effy Collection Sky Blue Topaz Pendant in Sterling Silver
- Natural Honey Citrine Drop Earrings in 14K Gold
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Russian Czars once reserved Imperial topaz exclusively for the royal family. Anyone else caught wearing these peachy-gold gems faced severe punishment.
November's birthstones capture autumn's warmth in crystalline form. Topaz ranges from pale sky blue to deep London blue, while the rare Imperial variety displays those once-forbidden peachy-gold hues. Citrine, called the "Merchant's Stone" because shopkeepers kept it in their cash registers to attract wealth, ranges from soft lemon to deep honey amber. When selecting November birthstone jewelry like a Swiss blue topaz pendant with diamond halo or warm citrine stud earrings, you're choosing gems believed to bring fortune, confidence, and joy.
Why are topaz and citrine such uplifting November birthstones?
Topaz has been treasured for millennia as a stone of strength and protection. Ancient Egyptians believed topaz was colored by the golden glow of the sun god Ra, making it a powerful amulet against harm. The Greeks believed topaz could increase strength and even render its wearer invisible during emergencies. In Hindu mythology, topaz was associated with Surya, the sun god, symbolizing courage and wisdom. Today, topaz is associated with love, affection, and strength, making it meaningful for those born in autumn's harvest month.
Citrine carries equally positive associations. Known as the "Merchant's Stone" or "Success Stone," citrine is believed to attract wealth, prosperity, and success. Its sunny color has long been associated with optimism, creativity, and spiritual enlightenment. Ancient cultures carved citrine into talismans and amulets—Greeks carved decorative images into citrine gems, while Roman priests wore citrine rings. Victorian designers favored citrine, particularly for Scottish-themed jewelry. For November babies, citrine represents light and happiness even as days grow shorter. Take our birthstone quiz to discover which November stone best matches your personality.
What is the history of November's birthstones?
Topaz's name origins are debated—some scholars trace it to the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning fire, while others connect it to the Greek island of Topazios (now called Zabargad) in the Red Sea. Adding to the confusion, ancient writers used "topaz" to describe various yellow and golden stones, including what we now know as peridot. The distinction between topaz, citrine, and other golden gems wasn't clarified until modern gemology emerged.
The most prized variety—Imperial topaz—gets its name from 19th-century Russia, where the pinkish-orange gems were mined in the Ural Mountains and reserved exclusively for the Czar's family. This prestigious association continues today, making Imperial topaz one of the most valuable varieties. Blue topaz, the most popular color today, is typically created by treating colorless topaz with irradiation and heat—a permanent, stable treatment that produces the beloved sky blue, Swiss blue, and London blue shades.
Citrine's name comes from the French word "citron," meaning lemon. Before gemologists distinguished between topaz and citrine, citrine was often called "gold topaz" or "Spanish topaz." Natural citrine is actually quite rare—most commercial citrine is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz, which transforms purple or gray tones into warm yellow and orange. This treatment is permanent and accepted in the gem trade. Compare November's warm hues with October's opal in our complete birthstone guide.
How to select the most stunning November birthstone jewelry?
For Topaz: Blue topaz comes in three recognized shades: Sky Blue (pale, airy), Swiss Blue (bright, vivid), and London Blue (deep, saturated with gray undertones). All are beautiful—choose based on personal preference and what complements your coloring. London Blue pairs elegantly with formal attire, while Sky Blue offers subtle everyday sparkle.
Imperial topaz, with its peachy-gold to pinkish-orange color, is far rarer and more valuable than blue topaz. Look for vivid saturation without brown or gray undertones. Natural Imperial topaz commands premium prices and makes an exceptional collector's piece.
Topaz scores 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it durable for all jewelry types. However, topaz has perfect cleavage (tendency to split along certain planes), so avoid settings that put stress on the stone and protect from sharp impacts.
For Citrine: Citrine ranges from pale lemon yellow to deep honey or Madeira (reddish-brown) shades. The most valuable citrine displays rich, saturated color without brown undertones. "Madeira" citrine, named after the wine, features deep orange-brown tones prized by some collectors. Natural citrine tends to be lighter in color, while heat-treated stones often display deeper saturation.
At 7 on the Mohs scale, citrine is durable enough for most jewelry, including rings worn regularly. Eye-clean clarity is standard and expected. Citrine offers exceptional value—even large, fine specimens remain affordable, making statement pieces accessible.
What are key considerations when selecting November birthstone jewelry?
Quality Comparison:
| Factor | Topaz | Citrine |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 8 | 7 |
| Color Range | Many (blue most popular) | Yellow to orange |
| Treatment | Blue is treated; Imperial natural | Often heat-treated |
| Price (blue) | Moderate | Affordable |
| Price (Imperial) | High | N/A |
| Best For | All jewelry | All jewelry |
Metal Pairings:
- Blue Topaz: White gold or platinum maximize the cool blue color; yellow gold adds warmth
- Imperial Topaz: Yellow gold enhances the peachy-gold tones beautifully
- Citrine: Yellow gold creates a warm, cohesive look; white metals add contrast
Care Instructions: Both November birthstones are relatively durable and easy to care for:
- Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush
- Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for both stones
- Avoid steam cleaners, especially for topaz
- Protect topaz from sharp impacts that could cause cleavage
- Store separately from harder gems like diamonds
Anniversary Associations:
- Blue topaz: 4th wedding anniversary
- Imperial topaz: 23rd wedding anniversary
- Citrine: 13th wedding anniversary
Setting Recommendations:
- Topaz's hardness allows for any setting, but protective settings guard against cleavage
- Citrine works beautifully in all settings, from delicate prongs to bold bezels
- Both gems make excellent choices for cocktail rings due to availability in large sizes
Whether you choose topaz's brilliant blue in London blue topaz drop earrings or citrine's golden warmth in a statement citrine cocktail ring, November birthstones bring light and optimism to autumn jewelry. A citrine tennis bracelet captures sunshine around your wrist, while an Imperial topaz ring offers rare elegance. For subtle daily sparkle, a sky blue topaz pendant or rich honey citrine drop earrings provide understated beauty. These cheerful gems make perfect holiday gifts, celebrating November birthdays with the warmth of captured sunshine. Explore elegant pendant necklaces to showcase these radiant gems.
Angara Swiss Blue Topaz Pendant with Diamond Halo in 14K White Gold
Angara Swiss with Diamond Halo in 14K White Gold
This stunning pendant features a Swiss blue topaz with vibrant color surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo.
This stunning pendant features a Swiss blue topaz with vibrant color surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo. The brilliant blue makes a beautiful statement. Set in 14K white gold with an 18-inch chain.
"The blue color is absolutely stunning! The diamond halo makes it sparkle beautifully.
Peora 14K Yellow Gold Citrine Stud Earrings 2.00 Carats
Peora 14K Yellow Gold 2 00 Carats
These warm stud earrings feature genuine round-cut citrine totaling 2.
These warm stud earrings feature genuine round-cut citrine totaling 2.00 carats. The golden yellow stones glow beautifully in 14K yellow gold settings. Secure push-back closures.
"Such a warm, sunny color! Perfect for adding brightness to any outfit.
Ross-Simons Imperial Topaz Ring with Diamond Accents
Ross Simons with Diamond Accents
This luxurious ring features a rare Imperial topaz with peachy-gold color.
This luxurious ring features a rare Imperial topaz with peachy-gold color. The precious variety of topaz is accented by sparkling diamonds. Set in 14K yellow gold for warmth.
"The Imperial topaz color is absolutely gorgeous—warm and sophisticated.
Gem Stone King Citrine Tennis Bracelet in Sterling Silver
Gem Stone King in Sterling Silver
This cheerful bracelet features a continuous line of genuine citrine stones set in sterling silver.
This cheerful bracelet features a continuous line of genuine citrine stones set in sterling silver. The warm golden color creates a sunny statement piece. Secure box clasp.
"Beautiful warm color! The citrine catches light beautifully and brightens any look.
Dazzlingrock Collection London Blue Topaz Drop Earrings in 10K Gold
Dazzlingrock Collection London Blue Topaz Drop Earrings in 10K Gold
These elegant drop earrings feature London blue topaz with deep, saturated blue color.
These elegant drop earrings feature London blue topaz with deep, saturated blue color. The sophisticated shade pairs beautifully with the gold setting. Secure lever-back closures.
"The London blue is so deep and sophisticated. These dress up any outfit beautifully.
FANCIME 14K Yellow Gold Citrine Cocktail Ring
FANCIME 14K Yellow Gold
This statement ring features a large cushion-cut citrine with exceptional clarity and warm golden color.
This statement ring features a large cushion-cut citrine with exceptional clarity and warm golden color. The generous size makes a bold impression. Set in 14K yellow gold.
"A true statement piece! The large citrine has beautiful color and catches everyone's eye.
Effy Collection Sky Blue Topaz Pendant in Sterling Silver
Effy Collection in Sterling Silver
This delicate pendant features a pale sky blue topaz with light, airy color.
This delicate pendant features a pale sky blue topaz with light, airy color. The subtle shade offers understated elegance. Set in sterling silver with an 18-inch chain.
"Such a pretty, delicate blue. Perfect for everyday wear with subtle sparkle.
Natural Honey Citrine Drop Earrings in 14K Gold
Natural Honey Citrine Drop Earrings in 14K Gold
These elegant drop earrings feature deep honey-colored citrine with rich, warm tones.
These elegant drop earrings feature deep honey-colored citrine with rich, warm tones. The amber-like color is stunning against the 14K gold setting. Secure lever-backs.
"The deep honey color is gorgeous! More sophisticated than lighter citrine shades.
Review of Our Favorite 3
Angara Swiss with Diamond Halo in 14K White Gold
This stunning pendant features a Swiss blue topaz with vibrant color surrounded by a sparkling diamond halo.
Peora 14K Yellow Gold 2 00 Carats
These warm stud earrings feature genuine round-cut citrine totaling 2.
Ross Simons with Diamond Accents
This luxurious ring features a rare Imperial topaz with peachy-gold color.
About the Author
Alfreda Borror
Alfreda Borror is an avid admirer of the finer things in life, and has an unending appreciation for luxury. Her considerable skills lie in design and fashion, having spent years working as a costume designer for both theatre and film.
