Current:Home > reviewsWhat is November's birthstone? Get to know the gem and its color. -RiskWatch
What is November's birthstone? Get to know the gem and its color.
View
Date:2025-04-12 06:39:56
For some, giving gifts is a way to show how well you know the birthday honoree. If you, your friend or loved one is born in November, you'll want to know each of its symbols if you want to give the perfect November birthday gift.
People born in November can have one of two astrological signs: Scorpio (born between November 1 and 21) or Sagittarius (born between November 22 and 30). The chrysanthemum also represents those born in November.
But what about November's birthstone? Each month has at least one gemstone. Here's what you need to know about November's birthstones, including their colors, symbolism and more.
November birthstones
Topaz and citrine are the two birthstones for November.
Topaz comes in an array of colors, such as blue, yellow, orange, pink, violet, red and brown.
The name is believed to derive from the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning "fire", according to the Geological Institute of America, which is fitting since one of the gem's best known forms is yellow. Others, however, believe topaz gets its name from the Greek word "topazos", states the International Gem Society. Another popular topaz variety is blue.
Topaz is mostly mined in Brazil and northwestern Pakistan, states GIA. Other countries that mine topaz include Namibia, Nigeria, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and the U.S.
Historically, pink-orange topaz was popular among royalty. This is no surprise since the stone is often referred to as "Imperial topaz." The nickname is said to originate from the Russian royal family's usage of the stone, according to GIA. Another justification is thanks to Brazilian Emperor Pedro II being gifted the gem in 1881.
This birthstone is believed to symbolize wealth and health. The ancient Greeks thought topaz brought strength. For centuries in India, wearing topaz above your heart meant a long life, beauty and intelligence. Yellow topaz, in particular, is said to attract wealth since its color "represents the riches of gold", according to IGS.
Besides being the birthstone for November, blue topaz is given for the fourth wedding anniversary, while Imperial topaz is for the twenty-third wedding anniversary.
Citrine is a type quartz, with its colors ranging from yellow to brown-orange. Its name originates from the French word "citron," meaning "lemon," states IGS.
Most citrine comes from the heat treatment of amethyst, according to GIA. The gem can be found in Bolivia, Spain, Madagascar, Mexico and Uruguay.
As for its history, citrine dates back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. The Greeks made ornaments from the stone, while Roman pontiffs wore rings made of citrine and amethyst, states GIA. Additionally, Scottish jewelry from the Victorian era often utilized citrine.
The stone is associated with happiness and joy, according to IGS. It is seen as a "success stone" and is said to bring prosperity. Citrine is also believed to affect the wearer's mood and calm them, states GIA.
Citrine is given as a gift for the thirteenth wedding anniversary.
What color is my birthstone?Learn which gemstone represents each month and what it means.
Want to learn more on other month's birthstones?
April | May | June | July | August | September
Just Curious for more? We've got you covered
USA TODAY is exploring the questions you and others ask every day. From "What are angel numbers?" to "What is my Zodiac sign?" to "How to make a vision board?", we're striving to find answers to the most common questions you ask every day. Head to our Just Curious section to see what else we can answer for you.
veryGood! (9)
Related
- Current, future North Carolina governor’s challenge of power
- 'We still haven't heard': Family of student body-slammed by officer says school never reached out
- Report: Chicago Bears equipment totaling $100K stolen from Soldier Field
- Pope Francis insists Europe doesn’t have a migrant emergency and challenges countries to open ports
- Have Dry, Sensitive Skin? You Need To Add These Gentle Skincare Products to Your Routine
- White House creates office for gun violence prevention
- Lots of dignitaries but no real fireworks — only electronic flash — as the Asian Games open
- What to know about NASA's OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample return mission
- Why we love Bear Pond Books, a ski town bookstore with a French bulldog 'Staff Pup'
- Check Out the Most Surprising Celeb Transformations of the Week
Ranking
- 'Kraven the Hunter' spoilers! Let's dig into that twisty ending, supervillain reveal
- Minnesota Twins clinch AL Central title with win over Los Angeles Angels
- A bombing at a checkpoint in Somalia killed at least 18 people, authorities say
- Birthplace of the atomic bomb braces for its biggest mission since the top-secret Manhattan Project
- Tarte Shape Tape Concealer Sells Once Every 4 Seconds: Get 50% Off Before It's Gone
- EPA Approves Permit for Controversial Fracking Disposal Well in Pennsylvania
- Arizona’s sweltering summer could set new record for most heat-associated deaths in big metro
- Researchers discover attempt to infect leading Egyptian opposition politician with Predator spyware
Recommendation
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow owns a $3 million Batmobile Tumbler
UNGA Briefing: There’s one more day to go after a break — but first, here’s what you missed
World's greatest whistler? California competition aims to crown champ this weekend
Judge sides with ACLU, orders Albuquerque to pause removal of homeless people’s belongings
Juan Soto to be introduced by Mets at Citi Field after striking record $765 million, 15
A bombing at a checkpoint in Somalia killed at least 18 people, authorities say
At UN, African leaders say enough is enough: They must be partnered with, not sidelined
Casa De La Cultura showcases Latin-x art in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month