TOPAZ

We usually think of topaz as yellow but it can be colorless, blue, orange, pink, purple, and brown, sometimes red.  Most blue topaz is heat-treated colorless topaz.  Imperial Topaz is deep orange. 

Ancient Greeks thought topaz brought strength.  In middle ages Europe, it was said to protect from magic spells and to dispel anger.  In India, it was believed to bring beauty, intelligence, and longevity.  Topaz also symbolizes love and affection.

When I was eight or so my mom gave me a black fake leather wallet with “November” printed on it, with a fake golden topaz cabochon on the front.  I thought it was the most beautiful thing ever.  I probably kept it for memory’s sake until I was in college! 

CITRINE

Pale to dark yellow/orange/brownish orange, citrine is a variety of quartz.  At one time it was thought to cool tempers and bring calm.  Citrine that is bright golden in color is most likely heat treated to bring out the color; natural citrine’s color is much less bright but no less beautiful and useful.

I feel citrine brings prosperity and uplifts the spirit—it’s sunny!  Some say citrine is grounding, but I’ve always found citrine to be lively.  (It is quartz, after all, which is an energy amplifier, but your mileage may vary.)  It is said to never need clearing, but I think once in a while couldn’t hurt.  It helps with creativity and making intelligent decisions, and helps attract and maintain success, wealth, and prosperity. 

One thing we at The Green Man tell customers: citrine should not be given, even as a gift, without being paid for.  If you’re giving citrine, ask the recipient to humor you and give you a dime.  Otherwise, the recipient might be driven away.  Why take a chance?

Happy birthday, November babies!!!  (Of which I am one.)