November · Birthstone guide
November has two birthstones: topaz — most valued in golden Imperial topaz — and citrine, the warm yellow variety of quartz.
November's warm golds are harvest colors: abundance, generosity, energy and good fortune.
Color is the single biggest driver of value in colored gemstones, and it is also where birthstone symbolism lives. See how every month's color compares in the birthstone color guide.
Topaz was believed by the Greeks to give strength; citrine is the 'merchant's stone', associated with prosperity and optimism.
The name may come from Topazios, an island in the Red Sea (now Zabargad, which actually produced peridot). Imperial topaz was named for 19th-century Russian tsars, who claimed exclusive rights to the pink-orange Ural material.
For the origin of the twelve-month tradition itself — Aaron's breastplate, Josephus, Polish gem traders and the 1912 American jewelers' list — read the full history of birthstones.
Modern birthstone · 8 Mohs
Modern birthstone · 7 Mohs
Spiritual and healing associations are traditional lore, recorded here for cultural interest — they are not medical advice.
Imperial topaz with pink-orange tones is the rarest. Most inexpensive blue topaz is irradiated colorless topaz. Much commercial 'citrine' is heat-treated amethyst — stable, but worth knowing.
Topaz has perfect cleavage and can split with a sharp knock; avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam.
A pendant is the most forgiving setting for softer stones, because a necklace takes far fewer knocks than a ring. Bezel settings protect the girdle of the stone and suit everyday wear, which is why a bezel-set november birthstone necklace is the piece most people start with.
If you want the stone on your hand instead, a slim november birthstone ring keeps the setting low enough to survive daily wear, and a personalized birthstone bracelet lets you line up one stone for every family birthday.
Shop November birthstone necklaces, rings and bracelets in 18K gold — each one made with the November birthstone and engraved with the name, initial or date you choose. Choose a piece, then pick your finish.
A short film on topaz, the november birthstone — its color, its meaning and how it is worn.
More answers in the birthstone questions and answers guide.
