The Birthstones for November can brighten up this chilly month. Both Topaz and Citrine are known for their calming energies, bringing warmth and good luck to those who wear them. Topaz is most desired in its rich orange regal color but it is found in a variety of rich colors like blue, pink and yellow. Citrine has been summarized at various times as yellow, greenish-yellow,brownish yellow or orange.
The name Topaz derives from the Topazios, the ancient Greek name for St. John's Island in the red sea. Although the yellow stones mined there weren't Topaz, it soon became the name for most yellowish stones. Pure Topaz is colorless but inpurities can make it take on any color of the rainbow. Precious Topaz, ranging in color from brownish orange to yellow, is often mistaken for "smoky quartz" or "citrine quartz". Actually, quartz and topaz are unrelated minerals
The most prized Topaz is the Imperial Topaz which is a vibrant orange with pink undertones. The blue Topaz very rarely occurs naturally and is often caused by irradiation treatment.
Early Europeans believed Topaz could break spells and quell anger. Hindus believed Topaz could bring wisdom and longevity for life.
The largest producer of Topaz is Brazil. In the U.S., mainly California, Utah and Maine.
Citrine is a variety of quartz and ranges from pale yellow to brownish orange in color. The name Citrine comes from the Citron fruit because of these lemon inspired shades. The pale yellow color of Citrine resembles Topaz, which is why November's birthstones have been so easily confused throughout time.
Most of Citrine on the market is achieved by heating other varieties of quartz, usually more common, less expensive purple amethyst and smoky quartz to achieve golden gems.
Citrine is sometimes called the "healing quartz" for its ability to comfort, soothe and calm. It is sometimes referred to as "The Merchant Stone" for its tendency to attract wealth and prosperity. Citrine has been referred to since ancient times but the name Citrine was used to refer to yellow gems as early as 1385, when the word was first recorded in English.
Brazil is the largest producer of Citrine. Other suppliers are Spain, Bolivia, France, Russia, Madagascar and the U.S. (Colorado, N. Carolina and California. Different shades of Citrine are determined by different Geographies.
