November babies, you lucked out. While some months get the predictable blues (looking at you, September!), November birthstones bring the glow. We’re talking about two vibrant gemstones that practically ooze warmth and light: topaz and citrine. So, if you’re craving a splash of color to brighten the darker days, these gems have got you covered.

Now, let’s get into why these stones are so special, and which one might be calling your name.

Topaz: Not Just Another Pretty Yellow

First up, let’s clear something up: topaz doesn’t only come in blue. This gem is kind of a chameleon—it can appear colorless, pink, red, blue, and of course, that iconic honey-gold shade. But if you’re all about the classic “Imperial Topaz,” you’re in luck. It’s named that for a reason: Russian royalty went crazy for it, and it’s still one of the most prized colors of topaz today.

But beyond its royal fan club, topaz has some serious staying power. With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, it can handle daily life without breaking a sweat. Want to wear it as a ring? Go for it. A pendant? Even better. It’s a stone that’s as practical as it is posh.

Citrine: Sunshine in a Stone

And then there’s citrine, a cheerful variety of quartz. If topaz is the dignified gem with a past, citrine is the fun, down-for-anything stone that just wants to make people smile. Known for its sunny yellow and warm orange hues, citrine is practically bursting with positive energy. And honestly, couldn’t we all use a little more of that?

Nicknamed the “merchant’s stone,” citrine has a rep for bringing prosperity and good fortune (ancient merchants used to keep it nearby to keep the cash flowing). And since it’s a 7 on the Mohs scale, citrine can take some wear, too—just don’t expect it to be as indestructible as topaz.

Topaz vs. Citrine: What’s the Difference?

So, you’ve got two gems, both popular in the golden-yellow range, both lovely, and both ideal for jewelry. But there’s more than meets the eye here. While they’re often confused for one another, precious topaz often has a richer, deeper color, while citrine leans brighter and more lemony. Topaz is the stronger of the two, so it’s a better choice if you’re looking for a stone that can handle a little rough-and-tumble. Citrine, on the other hand, has that carefree vibe, and its affordability means you can go big without blowing the budget.

And fun fact: much of the citrine on the market today is actually heat-treated amethyst. Yep, amethyst. But before you get up in arms about it, know that heat-treated citrine is still citrine—it just got a little help showing off its golden side.

The Verdict: Which Gem Should You Choose?

Why choose, really? But if you’re feeling torn, here’s a quick rundown: if you’re all about rich, luxe vibes and want a gemstone with some serious history, go for topaz. It’s the gem that royalty adored, and it’s tough enough for everyday wear. But if you’re looking for something bright, affordable, and full of joy, citrine might just be your match.

Or maybe you’re thinking…both? Honestly, we don’t blame you. November birthstones are like that—they’re hard to resist.

Give Your Gems the Royal Treatment

Topaz or citrine, it’s not just about picking the right stone. Once you’ve got that beauty, you’ll want to keep it shining bright for years to come. And that’s where we come in. Here at MyGemGirl in the Greater Baltimore Area, we’re here to make sure your November birthstone is appraised, insured, and ready to pass down to the next generation (or wear daily—we’re not judging). We’ll guide you through caring for these sunny stones, so they stay radiant for the long haul.

Whether you’re gifting or keeping it for yourself, these gems deserve their moment in the sun—and we’re here to make sure they get it. Give us a call, and let’s get that glow going!