The November birthstone has long been associated with deep blue hues, particularly sapphire. However, the modern November birthstone list also includes yellow gems like citrine and topaz. So which is it – is the November birthstone blue or yellow? Let’s take a closer look at the history and meaning behind the November birthstone to find out.
History of the November Birthstone
Birthstones have been associated with months of the year since ancient times. References to birthstones date back as far as the Bible’s Book of Exodus, which describes the 12 stones that were on Aaron’s breastplate. Over time, those 12 stones became associated with the 12 months of the year.
The modern birthstone list we use today was compiled in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers. This was meant to standardize the birthstones for each month that had previously varied from culture to culture.
For the month of November, the original birthstone was topaz. Topaz is a yellow silicate mineral that can range in color from brownish-yellow to yellow. During ancient times, yellow topaz from the Red Sea was thought to have mystical powers and health benefits.
Addition of the Blue Sapphire
In 1952, the Jewelers of America adopted a new standardized list. On this updated list, the blue sapphire joined the yellow topaz as an additional November birthstone.
The sapphire is a precious gem made of corundum, an aluminum oxide mineral. Sapphires are most prized in a deep cornflower blue shade. However, sapphire can also occur in other colors like purple, orange, green and pink.
The blue sapphire was likely added because blue gems were becoming more popular in jewelry at the time. The blue sapphire was also seen as a fitting addition since its deep blue color echoed the blue shade of the month’s birth flower, the chrysanthemum.
Modern November Birthstones
Today, the November birthstone list officially includes:
- Topaz – a silicate mineral that occurs in yellow, brown and blue
- Sapphire – an aluminum oxide gem ranging from blue to pink/orange
- Citrine – a variety of quartz ranging from yellow to brown
Citrine, a yellow-brown quartz, was added more recently as a third November birthstone option. This gave people born in November a choice between traditional yellow gems or the more prized blue sapphire.
Symbolic Meaning of the November Birthstone
The November birthstone has taken on some symbolic meaning and lore over the centuries:
- Yellow topaz symbolizes friendship and optimism
- Blue sapphire represents wisdom, virtue and holiness
- Citrine is known as the “healing quartz” for its power to energize
Overall, the November birthstone is said to inspire hope, energy and warmth – perfectly matching the spirit of Thanksgiving and the start of the holiday season.
November Birthstone Colors
| Birthstone | Colors |
|---|---|
| Topaz | Yellow, brown, blue, pink |
| Sapphire | Blue, purple, orange, green, pink |
| Citrine | Yellow, gold, brown |
As the table shows, the November birthstone encompasses both yellow and blue gems. But the most prized and traditional November birthstones are blue sapphire and yellow topaz.
Where are November Birthstones Found?
| Birthstone | Locations |
|---|---|
| Topaz | Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, Sri Lanka |
| Sapphire | Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Kashmir |
| Citrine | Brazil, Spain, Russia, France |
The countries above are some of the top sources for gem-quality November birthstones. Certain regions are prized for their production of specific colors and clarity levels. For example, the best blue sapphires come from Kashmir and Sri Lanka.
November Birthstones in Jewelry
November’s trifecta of birthstones allows for many unique jewelry options:
- Blue sapphire and diamonds for engagement rings or tennis bracelets
- Warm yellow citrine paired with yellow gold settings
- Earthy raw topaz crystals wire-wrapped in sterling silver pendants
- Mixing blue sapphire, yellow citrine, and white diamonds together for a custom birthstone ring
The vivid contrast of November’s blue and yellow birthstones compliment each other perfectly in jewelry designs. People born in November are lucky to have such beautiful birthstone choices!
Birthstone Jewelry Gift Ideas
Here are some November birthstone jewelry gift ideas for that special person born in the month of Thanksgiving:
| Gift Idea | Description |
|---|---|
| Sapphire stud earrings | Classic sapphire earrings set in either white gold or yellow gold |
| Citrine pendant | A bright citrine gemstone wired wrapped in sterling silver on a chain |
| Birthstone rings | Choose their birthstone or mix sapphire, citrine, topaz, and diamonds together |
| November birthstone bracelet | Custom bracelet with their November birthstones and birth month charm |
A birthstone jewelry gift is sure to thrill any November baby! Consult a jeweler to design something unique featuring their favorite gem.
How to Care for November Birthstones
Here are some tips for keeping November birthstone jewelry looking its best:
- Store sapphire and citrine pieces separately from harder gems to prevent scratches
- Clean with warm water, mild soap and soft brush
- Avoid exposing citrine to prolonged sunlight or heat to prevent fading
- Have sapphire and topaz jewelry inspected yearly for loose settings
- Take off during strenuous activity to prevent damage
Birthstones are relatively hard gemstones but still require some care. Be gentle with ultrasonic or steam cleaners. See a jeweler immediately for any loose stones or damaged settings. With proper care, November birthstone jewelry will remain an heirloom to cherish!
Conclusion
While the November birthstone is traditionally considered a yellow gem like citrine or topaz, it also includes the blue sapphire. This unique mix of yellow and blue birthstones provides a full spectrum of jewelry options. The lively yellow gems pair perfectly with the deep blue sapphire for November birthday gift ideas. Whether set in gold or silver, the November birthstones will light up the cold days of winter with their warm glow. Someone born in the month of Thanksgiving can be thankful for such a bounty of beautiful birthstone choices!
