November Birthstones are Topaz and Citrine

November has two birthstone choices – Topaz and Citrine

November Birthstones

November birthstones are topaz and citrine.  At one time, topaz was a term used for any yellow gem; today, it describes the mineral fluoro-hydrozy silicate (the chemical name for topaz).  Topaz is the hardest of all silicate minerals.  Natural topaz is colorless, but impurities like iron and chromium will turn it almost any color.  Yellow to amber tones are the traditional shades.  Deposits of topaz are found in Brazil, Myanmar, China, the United States and elsewhere.  Blue topaz has been irradiated or heated treated to achieve the color.  Pink to reddish orange shades are the most valuable.

Citrine is an alternative birthstone for November.  It is a form of yellow to amber quartz (silicon dioxide) and it’s often confused with topaz.  The yellow tones come from iron.  Natural citrines are light yellow and are found in deposits in much the same areas as topaz.  Today, a lot of citrine is heat treated amethyst or smoky quartz.

I’ve found lots of lore that is attached to both topaz and citrine.  Some people think that Topaz helps balance your emotions.  Ancient Greeks felt that topaz could make the wearer invisible.  Both stones are thought to be calming and to bring good fortune to those who wear them.  Gemstone lore says topaz symolizes love and affection.  Topaz is is believed to give the wearer increased strength and Intellect.  Citrine offers the same benefits, including calming and healing.

Topaz and citrine are both hard gems that are easily maintained and can be cleaned in a jewelry cleaner.  Citrine is frequently used in rings and should not be steam cleaned because of the heat generated.  Both of these gemstones are terrific with Fall fashion colors.  Remember – do not expose gemstone jewelry to heat and be sure to store your jewelry pieces in jewelry bags or other protective wraps to avoid scratches.

Sales and other Stuff

Happy Thanksgiving to all – be on the look out for our Black Friday through Cyber Monday coupon sale.

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Fall Fiber Fiesta

In mid-November I will be doing the Fall Fiber Fiesta in Santa Fe again.  This is a terrific show that’s held at the Scottish Rite Temple on Paseo de Peralta. There are a lot of talented fiber artists at this show – handwoven products include home furnishings like pillows and blankets, wearables – scarves, coats, jackets and more, and even toys and stuffed animals.

Show information:

Friday, November 16  Reception – meet the artists 5-8pm

Saturday and Sunday, November 17 & 18  9am – 5pm

Scottish Rite Temple, 463 Paseo de Peralta, Santa Fe NM