Lucky you November, you can choose! Traditionally November’s birthstone has been imperial topaz. Imperial topaz is the most prized color of topaz. Best quality imperial topaz has a vibrant orange hue with pink undertones. Pure topaz is colorless and is often tinted to let it take on any color of the rainbow. The most precious of the colors of topaz range from the brownish orange to yellow. It was once thought that all yellow stones were topaz. Today yellow topazes are often mistaken for smoky quartz and citrine.
The name topaz is derived from Topazios the ancient Greek name for what is now known as St John’s island in the Red Sea. Although the yellowish gemstones that were mined there were probably not topaz the name stuck! Today the greatest producer of quality topaz is Brazil. Other sources include Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Russia, Australia, Nigeria, Germany, Mexico, and the U.S. — mainly California, Utah, and New Hampshire.
Imperial topaz is considered to be a stone of “good fortune.” It is said to bring prosperity and abundance to the wearer. It is supportive in visualization, manifestation, creativity and generosity. All of which can bring prosperity into one’s life! Imperial topaz can also to help one recharge both physically and mentally!
Citrine has often been mistaken with for topaz and vice versa! Which may be the reason why it is the other “official” birthstone for November. It is also the less expensive choice. Citrine is a variety of quartz that ranges in color from pale yellow to honey orange. Citrine derives its name from the citron fruit because of the lemon shades of color.
Like topaz, Brazil is the largest supplier of citrine. This may be another reason the two are often confused. Other suppliers of citrine include Spain, Bolivia, France, Russia, Madagascar and the U.S. (Colorado, North Carolina and California). Depending on the region it stems from will depend on the shade of color it has.
Again like topaz, citrine can help to assist in acquiring wealth. Not only can citrine help to acquire wealth but can help to keep it too! Citrine is linked with boosting joy and optimism, both of which can give one motivation to accomplish goals.
Which one will you choose?
Until next time,
ENJOY!!
cheryl