November Birthstone Guide: The History and Meaning behind Topaz and Citrine
November 03, 2021
The luminous energy of November’s birthstones
Those born in November are lucky to have two gemstones to choose from – Topaz and Citrine. Topaz is a highly sought-after gemstone in jewellery, coming in a variety of colours from yellow and pink to blue, and even black. Citrine is a yellow variety of Quartz and ranges from earthy golden-brown to pale yellow. Find out about the history, provenance and properties of Topaz and Citrine in our guide to find out which resonates with you.
The history of Topaz
Topaz is named after the Greek Island of Topazios, now known as Zabargad or St Johns Island, a small island in the Red Sea where in ancient times shimmering yellow stones now thought to be Chrysolite or Peridot, were mistaken for Topaz. Some have also traced the name Topaz from the sanksrit words topas or tapaz which means heat or fire. Topaz is a prominent gemstone throughout history, renowned for its healing properties and as a provider of wisdom and knowledge. In Ancient Egypt, Topaz was believed to protect the wearer as it was coloured by the glow of Ra, the Sun God and giver of life; while Ancient Greek and Romans used the stone to heal injuries and endow strength. Topaz is a sacred stone for Hindus, who believe in the gemstone’s protective abilities and that wearing a Topaz pendant would bring wisdom and longevity to the wearer’s life.
Where is Topaz from?
The first Topaz stones were found in Germany in 1737, and a large Topaz was discovered in Brazil in 1740 which was initially mistaken for a diamond. Topaz can be found in deposits all around the world including Central, South and East Asia, Europe, South America, North and Central America.
The properties of Topaz
London Blue Topaz Stones have healing qualities of cooling tempers, calming nerves, and helping with emotional balance and tranquillity. Partly due to its calming and stabilising ability, coupled with an ability to enhance creativity, this stone is especially good for communication and for artists in all media.
The history of Citrine
In 1556 the name Citrine replaced its previous name “yellow quartz”. The source and meaning of the name has many potential sources, all linking back to the stones vibrant citrus hues.Throughout the Hellenistic Age (300 and 150 BC) the Ancient Greeks used Citrine as a decorative gem, while 17th century Scottish weapon makers used the gemstone to adorn dagger handles or even using larger stones as the handle itself. It was the 1920s that saw Citrine rise to modern-day popularity, adorning jewellery, clothing and even using it’s signature orange hue in interior design and furniture.
Where is Citrine from?
The majority of Citrine can be found in Brazil, the Ural Mountains of Russia, France and Madagascar.
Properties of Citrine
Carrying the warm energy of the sun, Citrine is the ultimate stone of manifestation as it stimulates the imagination and personal willpower. The shimmering yellow, orange and brown hues encourages a positive attitude, happiness, joy and is thought to protect the wearer from negative energies.