November is a changing month - a fresh nip in the air, sunlight is warm (and golden), and festivities await just on the horizon. With November reflecting warmth and richness in both colour and meaning, it is fitting that one of the traditional birthstones for November is Topaz and the second, Citrine. Each of these gemstones have their own unique history, symbolism, and significance to the world of gemstone jewellery. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about Topaz and Citrine as well as gemstone rings - from what they are and their meanings, to how to wear gemstones, what to watch for when looking to buy gemstone jewellery in India. And ideas on shopping for a ring or gemstone piece from the best online store for gemstones in India. Whether you are a November baby yourself or shopping for someone in November, this guide will help you to understand and appreciate these warm-tone gems.

Choosing Topaz and Citrine: What to Know

In the majority of birthstone tables, the month is identified with a golden-to-yellow stone known as topaz. In addition, citrine has become an alternate (or alternative) birthstone for November. As noted by the International Gem Society (IGS), yellow topaz is the most common historic November birthstone, and citrine is now a modern option that has become popular due to its low cost and its warm colours. 

Additionally, the lore and symbolism surrounding each stone overlaps in many ways: warmth, light, abundance, and energy. As noted in one article, “While Topaz is the primary birthstone for November, other types of gemstones can also be identified...the combination of Topaz and Citrine brings warmth, optimism and power to people born in November.”

Thus, when you see jewellery described as “November birthstone jewellery,” it may be topaz or citrine or sometimes both. Understanding the nuances (and also similarities) in these stones can help you make a better decision.

What is Topaz?

Silver Halo Blue Topaz Ring

Topaz is a silicate mineral (aluminium fluoro-hydroxy silicate) that crystallises in a range of colours. The pure form of topaz can be colourless. The various colours of topaz come from trace elements or structural imperfections. For November birthstone purposes, we will focus on yellow to golden topaz.

- The name "topaz" is derived from the Sanskrit word tapas, which means "fire" or "heat". 

- Because of this, historically, people associated topaz with warmth, sunshine and power.

Significance and Symbolism of Topaz

Generally, the symbol of topaz relates to warmth, friendship, love and strength. There is also meaning in terms of spirituality for topaz stating, “clearing negative energy and replacing it with positive energy … healing health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and poor circulation.” 

This sense of significance makes topaz a good gift idea for someone born in November, or as a personal positive energy talisman.

Colours, Types, & Things to Pay Attention To

When it comes to choosing jewellery, topaz occurs in many colors, but for November birthstones it is the golden-yellow or “Imperial topaz” color that is most often mentioned. 

According to IGS:

“Yellow topaz ranges in color from golden yellow to reddish-orange. Imperial topaz, the rarest variety, refers to naturally occurring topaz of golden color… These topaz gems are very rare…” 

Because of their rarity, Imperial topaz naturally occurring gemstones are quite valuable- but there are other options that can be found that are less expensive (heated or treated yellow/blue topaz).

When purchasing topaz jewellery, be aware of the following things:

Hardness: Topaz is about 8 on the Mohs scale—relatively hard and suitable for all types of jewellery. 

Treatments: Some topaz must be heat-treated or irradiation-treated to generate specific colours (especially blue). You should always ask for a certificate and clarity on treatments.

Colour uniformity and saturation: For golden/yellow topaz, strong saturation and few brown tones typically lend greater desirability.

Certification and origin: As with all gemstones, you should have a trusted certificate (preferably from an established gem lab) for assurance of being genuine.

Read more: 5 Key Reasons Why Gemstones Are a Must-Have in Your Jewellery Collection

Styling & Wearing Topaz Jewellery

Regardless of whether you choose a topaz ring, a topaz pendant or topaz earrings, given the month of November and your birthstone, consider the following tips for styling the jewellery.

- Golden/yellow topaz reflects autumn and sunny hues, therefore offering the most options for pairing with warm metals (yellow gold, rose gold). White gold or silver creates a modern aesthetic with the topaz jewelry selected.

- In conjunction with Indian jewellery, sterling silver (925) or 14k gold pairs wonderfully to highlight the yellow charm of the topaz stone.

- For rings, consider the finger and style - few things are nicer than a centre stone topaz ring if the goal is to give a gift or statement ring. However, a simpler band with smaller accent stones will work nicely for everyday use.

Care: Do not expose topaz jewellery to sudden temperature changes or high temperature (this could create internal fractures). To clean topaz jewellery, gently clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush.

Topaz Is A Gift For November Birthdays

If you have gone with a gemstone ring or piece of jewellery for a November baby, you are making a good choice. Topaz is symbolic and meaningful: warmth, friendship, abundance, and tradition; it is referred to as the birthstone. Topaz is well suited to rings and other jewellery that will receive constant use because of its hardness and durability. The luxurious gold/rosegold plated hue evokes festivity, especially appropriate as it relates to late-year birthday celebrations.

What is Citrine?

Silver Grace Citrine Ring

Citrine is a type of quartz, yellow to orange variants, commonly regarded as one of the modern birthstones for the month of November.

According to the International Gem Society:

"Citrine is the yellow and orange variety of the mineral quartz ... all yellow and orange quartz specimens are referred to as citrine."

Natural citrine is relatively uncommon, much of the commercial supply is actually made by heat treating amethyst or smoky quartz to attain the preferred golden/yellow colors.

Meaning and Symbolism of Citrine

In terms of symbolism, citrine has a bright and warm energy that is often associated with joy, prosperity, clarity and creativity. 

For example,

"The bright, warm colours of citrine are said to symbolise feelings of joy and happiness … Citrine is said to bring happiness and abundance to the wearer, as the gem radiates bright, warm energy like the sun."

Another source describes citrine as a stone of abundance:

"Citrine, the birthstone for November, is often known as the stone of abundance. It represents prosperity, warmth, clarity and creativity."

Given this symbolism, citrine is a favourite for gifts of jewellery to signify good fortune, success, or a fresh start. In fact, historically it was actually referred to as the "merchant's stone," as it was thought to irresistibly attract financial success.

Styling & Wearing Citrine Jewellery 

Citrine has an incredibly versatile warm yellow-to-orange color tone that can be effectively styled in your jewelry. Here are some tips: 

Metal choice - Citrine looks wonderful in yellow and rose gold as the metal will enhance the golden tones in the citrine. For an updated look, white gold or silver will work as well and allow the brightness of the citrine to shine. 

Jewellery types - Because citrine tends to be more affordable, you may find rings with larger stones, bold pendants, and cocktail earrings, or statement bracelets with citrine that may be more expensive with a rarer stone. 

Everyday use - Although citrine is durable, you should have your fine jewelry settings checked regularly (for prongs, etc.) and take care to avoid extreme impacts which could chip or scratch the stone. 

Gift purpose - Citrine jewellery makes an especially meaningful gift for a person born in November or for a gift with intention such as growth, success, or transition (e.g., graduation gift, new business milestone gift).

Read more: Why Gemstones Make the Perfect Meaningful Gift for Every Occasion 

Choosing Citrine as a Gift or as a Personal Choice

If you are choosing a gemstone piece for November birthday, citrine is a warm, vibrant choice or complement to topaz. Along with the affordability of citrine, you may find it is also easier to pick a statement piece, like a larger citrine ring without bending the budget, due to its colour and price point. As far as symbolism, citrine is positivity, abundance and light, which are also lovely themes for someone who is moving forward into the next phase.

Topaz vs Citrine – Know the Differences and Which One to Select

Silver Halo Blue Topaz Earrings

Mineralogical & Physical Differences

While both gems can look somewhat close (or overlap) (especially in golden/yellow tones), topaz and citrine are quite different in their mineral families and physical properties:

Topaz is a silicate mineral; citrine is a form of quartz. 

Hardness: Topaz is rated approximately 8 on the Mohs scale while citrine is around 7. In turn, Topaz is somewhat more resistant to scratches or wear than citrine in more common wear situations. 

Colour sources: Topaz is often coloured due to structural defects and/or specific trace elements in a relatively small area; citrine's colour is due to iron impurities, and in many cases you find citrine that is heat treated from other forms of quartz. 

Rarity and price: Some selected types of Topaz (for example, un-treated Imperial Topaz) are quite rare and therefore higher priced. Citrine, especially treated, is a more affordable and more easily available stone. 

Differences in Sign and Style 

In terms of significance or gifting: 

Topaz has some associations with strength, friendships, warmth and protection. 

Citrine has associations more closely to joy, abundance, clarity and creativity. In styling terms, you would select topaz if you desire more "classic birthstone" with a sense of an understated luxury; you would choose citrine if you want greater size and bold colour in an expressive style with affordability.

Which Option Should You Decide On?

The choice between topaz and citrine will depend on your priorities, budget and desires for your jewellery. Here are some prompts to help guide you:

Budget: If you are on a smaller budget and want a larger stone, and a vibrant gemstone ring or pendant, citrine will give you more pounds for your gemstone.

Durability and everyday wear: If you plan on wearing the piece everyday (ring worn all day) and you want to feel more confident in wearing a robust gemstone, topaz may be the determining factor.

Colour: Do you prefer a bright golden-yellow colour, or something more muted, or perhaps orange-tinted or honey-brown? Citrine provides a range of warm tones; topaz provides a richer golden colour and a rare reddish-orange colour (Imperial topaz).

Symbolic meaning: Think about the representations you want - do you want friendship and strength (topaz) or abundance and positivity (citrine)?

Metal & design: If you are designing/styling a piece, check metal settings, size of stone, cut and overall aesthetics. Either stone can look good in gold, rose gold or silver - just make sure the setting will complement the colour of the gemstone chosen.

Certification & authenticity: Whatever you choose, make sure that you are buying from a bona fide online gemstone shop in India (see next section) that has certification options if possible or in store.

How to Buy November Birthstone Jewellery in India – Helpful Guide

When buying topaz or citrine jewellery from an online store in India, please consider these important factors:

Certification & authenticity: Search for gemstone certification (by labs qualified to do so) indicating stone identity, treatments, weight/carat, clarity, and origin as appropriate.

Product images & description: Good online listings will show good images that are high resolution and are appropriate to the size of the stone, mention the metal of the stone (925 silver) and a detailed description of the stone (brand).

Brand or jeweller reputation: Select stores that have established trustworthiness, reviews from customers who have previously purchased items, returns/refunds, after-sales services (repairs/resizing), and reasonable pricing.

Metal quality & hallmarking: For silver settings, verify the item is 925 sterling and specify whether there is any plating on the piece.

Stone birthstone disclosure: A lot of citrine and topaz stones are treated (heat, irradiation). A reliable seller will indicate this information about the stone. Treated stones are acceptable items to purchase providing you are aware of what you have purchased.

Shipping/returns/warranty: Verify if the online store guarantees shipping is done securely (ensured and secure packaging), repeatable returns or exchanges, and guaranteed services that boosts the value of your purchase.  e.g. If they provide you with a warranty and return/refund policy if the item does not fit or warranty for resizing, or cleaning.

Budget & value-aspect: Check for sizes of stones, weights of metal, reputation of company, quality of stone (colour, clarity), if you want good value for your money.

Selecting the Ideal Piece of Jewellery

Here are some suggestions for selecting a topaz or citrine gemstone piece: 

Identify the type of gemstone jewellery: Will you be selecting a ring, pendant, earrings or bracelet. Rings and pendants are common for gifts when it comes to birthstones.

Stone size and cut: A larger stone will garner the most attention. Just be sure the stone is well-cut (faceting and symmetry) so that you get the brilliance and sparkle. 

Metal setting/style: A secure setting is recommended for every day wear (prong or bezel). For rings, make sure the band width is comfortable for your finger size. 

Colour matching to your wardrobe: If you wear warm tones (browns, golds, reds) the warm grades of citrine/topaz will look wonderful. If you regularly wear cooler wardrobe tones (blues, greys, whites), a slightly paler/medium yellow colour stone in a white metal setting would look nice with contrast. 

Make sure to read the product reviews and check the return policy: Most people do not have the opportunity to see the piece in-person if they are shopping online—thus the product reviews, numerous good images and good return policy are essential.

Care & Maintenance in the Indian Environment

In light of the Indian climate (with variable humidity, heat) and regular use of your jewellery, here is some targeted advice for the care of your items:

- Do not put your gemstone jewellery in direct contact with harsh chemicals (detergents, chlorine, salt water).

- When you remove the piece of jewellery after wearing, gently wipe the piece with a soft cloth to remove sweat and oils and as much dust as possible.

- For cleaning: warm soapy water and a soft brush. You may not use an ultrasonic or steam cleaner unless the seller said in writing that the stone was safe to clean this way.

- Store your gemstone jewellery separate from harder stones/diamonds to avoid scratching the softer stones or chipping.

- Occasionally check the setting (especially the prongs) for loose stones.

- Please avoid putting topaz through sudden temperature changes (this can cause internal fractures) and citrine in strong direct sunlight for long periods, as it may cause the colour to fade after many years of direct sun exposure.

Tips for Styling November Birthstone Rings & Jewellery 

Silver Grace Citrine Pendant With Link Chain

For Rings

Should you choose a ring with either topaz or citrine, consider considerations regarding finger, metal and clothing compatibility. For example, a citrine solitaire ring in14k rose gold will evoke a warmer, elegant look. A yellow topaz ring in white gold will present a modern contrast. For men's jewellery (yes, gemstone rings are not just for women!), a substantial yellow topaz stone set in sterling silver or gold presents a stately alternative.

Layering with other jewellery: One of the most enjoyable aspects of any of these stones is their versatility. A citrine ring can pair nicely with minimalist silver bangles or stacked gold chains; while topaz earrings can balance perfectly with gold watches or bracelets.

For Pendants & Necklaces

If a subtle means of wearing your birthstone is your interest, a pendant is a great option. A small, citrine drop pendant in rose gold or a topaz drop in yellow gold are both options that can be easily worn daily. Again, consider matching the metal to your daily wear. For more formal wear, such as festivals and weddings, consider a larger stone and/or accent diamonds, to add sparkle.

For Gift-Giving of Birthstone

When selecting birthstone jewellery for your November birthday recipient, first consider their taste in jewellery - do they gravitate more towards minimalist styles or statement pieces? Are they a silver person or more of a gold person? A ring person or more an earring person? You might also include a note about the meaning of their stone (“This citrine is known as the merchant’s stone, representing abundance and joy”), which adds so much more personal value than just aesthetics!

Colour Combos + Outfit Pairing

Since both stones are warm stones, they both work beautifully in earthly colours of creams, browns, khakis, rusts, and golds. If you wear cool tones like navy, grey, or black, look for a white metal setting so that the colour of your stone can take centre stage. For a special occasion, you might wear a bold statement citrine cocktail ring; for everyday, a simple topaz stud or band would be just as beautiful.

Read more: Gemstone Care: Easy Caring Tips for Gemstone Jewellery | GIVA

November Birthstone Jewellery Trends in India

In India, jewellery features unique cultural, aesthetic and value considerations. Here are some trends and notes specific to the Indian market:

Silver settings with gemstones: There’s an increasing trend of good-quality sterling silver gemstone jewellery (925 silver) in India, offering affordable yet elegant options for citrine or yellow topaz rings, earrings and pendants.

Online gemstone stores: With growing trust in e-commerce, many Indian buyers purchase gemstone jewellery online. They appreciate detailed product images, certificates of authenticity, transparent pricing, and reliable return policies.

Gift-giving culture: Since November comes just before several Indian festival seasons (Diwali, etc), birthstone jewellery for November birthdays or for festival gifts is especially relevant. A ring or pendant with a November birthstone becomes a meaningful and timely gift.

You can browse GIVA to explore a stunning range of gemstone jewellery. Perfect for treating yourself or finding a meaningful gift for someone special.

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Shwetha J

Shwetha is a content writer who brings in Shopify & off-page SEO expertise, and matches her passion for dance off-duty.