Topaz and Citrine

Topaz is the birthstone for those born in November, and the astrological birthstone for those born under the zodiac sign of Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21) – the alternative gemstone for November is Citrine.

Did you know there are also flowers associated with birth months?

The flower for November is the Chrysanthemum – love all the gorgeous colors of these flowers!

 

The name Topaz was derived from island formerly Topazos (now Zabargad – which is also known as St. John’s Island, located in the Red Sea in Southern Egypt).

 

Topaz is related to the Sanskrit word ‘tapas or tapaz’ meaning “heat” or “fire”. Natural pure topaz is colorless but due to impurities/minerals within the stone – a multitude of colors can result. Topaz can be found in yellow, brown, orange, green, pink, red and blue – the last three colors listed are the most rare.

 

Folklore is abundant in the gemstone Topaz.  Egyptians believed Topaz came from their sun god Ra, granting them protection against harm.

Topaz has an inner radiance and is believed to strengthen one’s intellect, success, and courage.  This stunning gem is also thought to deter sadness and prevent bad dreams.

CITRINE

Citrine – an alternative birthstone for the month of November – is part of a group of minerals from the quartz family. These include amethyst, aventurine, prasiolite, and tiger’s eye.

The name is derived from the French word ‘citrin’, meaning lemon – this yellow color comes from the gem’s iron content. Natural citrines are quite rare – most commercial stones you find today are actually heat-treated amethyst gemstones.

 

Citrine is thought to promote success, generosity, and abundance. This radiant gem is also believed to increase personal power and energy, decrease self-doubt and negative energy.

By enhancing mental clarity and confidence, Citrine increases one’s creativity and honesty, which in turn can yield success and abundance for the individual wearer.

Aside from charts and articles I have collected over the years, the majority of the information for this post (and future posts) comes from a wonderful used book I found on gemstones by George Frederick Kunz:
‘Sentiments of The Months’:
November

Who first comes to this world below
With drear November’s fog and snow
Should prize the topaz’s amber hue –
Emblem of friends and lovers true.

Firm friendship is November’s, and she bears
True love beneath the topaz that she wears.