November birthstone: Choose from either topaz or citrine
The November birthstone, topaz, comes in lots of colors. It's a much-loved gemstone in jewelry, with myths that date to ancient times. Or choose citrine. The post November birthstone: Choose from either topaz or citrine first appeared on EarthSky .
November’s birthstone options are topaz and citrine, both offering unique charm. Topaz, available in various colors, derives its name from the Sanskrit word for fire. Ancient beliefs attributed magical and healing powers to this gem. Its hardness, ranking 8 on the Mohs scale, makes it ideal for durable jewelry like necklaces and bracelets.
Imperial topaz, a reddish-brown shade, is the most sought-after variety. Citrine, derived from quartz, also comes in a spectrum of yellow hues, including pale yellow to reddish-orange. It’s formed due to iron impurities in the stone. As a softer gemstone than topaz, rated 7 on the Mohs scale, citrine is often heat-treated to enhance its color.
While both varieties are favored for their beauty, topaz commands higher prices, particularly in red. Brazil is the leading producer of topaz, while citrine primarily comes from Brazil as well, with significant deposits also in the United States.
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