Since last month’s Birthstone Talk took a darker turn (opals, superstition, and all) let’s bask in the light-filled energy of November’s birthstones—citrine and topaz
These gems bring a sense of warmth, prosperity, and strength, which feels so good as the days get shorter. Even in California, there’s a chill in the air. And I’m writing you now from Santa Fe, NM, where we just had our first freeze and snow.
Growing up in Boston, November meant picking out new boots. I have such good memories of this comforting ritual that that I may or may not have just revived it here in Santa Fe.
Thanksgiving (my favorite holiday!) can also bring that cozy feeling— savoring favorite dishes, while connecting with loved ones. I'll be soaking up the California sun for this one. You?
November feels like the perfect time to think about what keeps us steady and brings us warmth.
So what sets these two gems apart? Here’s a closer look:
Citrine: The Stone of Prosperity and Joy
Citrine has long symbolized abundance and success. Known as "The Merchant’s Stone," citrine has been cherished by entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone looking to invite prosperity into their lives. Its warm, golden glow radiates positivity—like a little pocket of sunlight you can carry with you.
Historically, citrine was used to dispel negativity and bring clarity. According to gemstone lore collected by George Frederick Kunz, ancient Roman priests would wear citrine as a talisman to ward off evil thoughts and sharpen focus during rituals. Likewise, in ancient Greece, carrying citrine was thought to help clear dark energies, allowing for clearer thinking and better judgment.
Topaz: The Gem of Strength and Healing
Topaz brings its own unique energy as a stone associated with strength and resilience. Ancient civilizations believed it could ward off harm, often wearing it to boost mental and physical clarity. Talk about a multitasking gem!
While topaz comes in many colors, from cool blues to warm pinks, November’s birthstone is typically golden-yellow, echoing the hues of autumn. This hue seems to hold a calm confidence, making topaz ideal for anyone seeking a little extra grounding energy.
Building on his gemstone lore, Kunz also describes topaz as closely connected to the sun—symbolizing warmth, vitality, and clarity. In ancient Egypt, topaz was believed to carry the power of Ra, the sun god, imbuing its wearer with strength and protection.
Gemological Differences: How to Tell Citrine from Topaz
At first glance, citrine and golden-yellow topaz look similar, but scientifically, they’re quite different (for my fellow gemology geeks):
- Composition: Citrine is a variety of quartz (SiO₂), while topaz is a silicate mineral (Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂).
- Hardness: Topaz ranks higher on the Mohs scale at 8, making it more resistant to scratches than citrine (7). This makes topaz great for rings or jewelry that sees more wear.
- Color Range: Both stones come in golden-yellow shades, but topaz has a wider color palette, including blues, pinks, and clear varieties, while citrine typically stays within warm, sunny tones.
- Availability: Citrine is more widely available.
Each stone has its own unique composition and personality, making them wonderful choices for different reasons.
Adding Intention to Jewelry
“While I take the crystal healing side of gemstones ‘with a grain of salt’ (plain old NaCl), there’s something undeniably special about infusing jewelry with intention. Knowing a stone’s symbolism gives it an extra layer of personal meaning.”
Citrine’s associations with prosperity and positivity make it perfect for anyone focusing on growth and joy, while topaz brings inner calm and resilience. Adding this kind of intention—whether for yourself or as a gift—gives a piece that extra layer of personal meaning.
A Design Dilemma – And an Invitation for You
In my gemstone collection, there’s a pair of citrine cabochons that hold a special place in my heart, but which somehow, I haven’t been able to make into jewelry (for nearly 30 years!).
They’re large, pear-shaped beauties with a smooth surface and a honey-like luster. These cabochons were a gift back in my MFA days from someone who brought them from Hong Kong. Each year, I pull them out and wonder, “Is this the year I’ll finally design something extraordinary with them?”
I’ve even thought about creating a piece with which to enter a design contest like the AGTA Spectrum or the Women’s Jewelry Association’s Gem Diva Awards. But they’re still waiting for that perfect spark of inspiration.
So, here’s where you come in! I’d love to hear your ideas: would you turn these citrines into a bold statement necklace? Show-stopping earrings? And what colored gemstones would you pair them with? You know I lean toward with pink, maybe pairing them with tourmalines from Brazil. Or, perhaps I could stick with our theme and go with blue topaz for a little ‘sea and sun’ vibe like Laguna Beach or ‘sky and land’ like Santa Fe.
The inspiration of ‘place’ abounds, doesn’t it?
Send me a message or drop a comment and we can brainstorm together! Some of my best ideas come from a little collaboration, and I’d love for you to be part of bringing this piece to life.
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