The November birthstone is topaz, with citrine as a second, modern November birthstone. Both glow in warm golden and amber shades that match late-autumn light, and both are durable enough for everyday jewellery. Topaz also comes in icy blues and rare pinks, giving November babies a huge range of colours to choose from.
This guide covers what each November birthstone means, the colours and types to know, hardness, prices, care and gift ideas.
What Is the November Birthstone?
| Topaz | Citrine | |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Traditional November birthstone | Modern November birthstone |
| Mineral | Aluminium silicate with fluorine | Quartz (yellow to orange variety) |
| Colours | Golden, imperial orange-pink, blue, pink, colourless | Pale lemon to deep orange-brown (“Madeira”) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8 | 7 |
| Main sources | Brazil, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, USA (Utah) | Brazil, Bolivia, Madagascar, Spain |
| Symbolises | Love, strength, calm, clarity | Joy, success, abundance, warmth |
Topaz: The Traditional November Birthstone
Topaz is one of the hardest natural gemstones (8 on the Mohs scale), which makes it excellent for rings. Its name may come from the Greek topazos, after an island in the Red Sea, or from the Sanskrit word tapas, meaning fire.
Types of topaz
- Imperial topaz – the most valuable, in golden orange with pink undertones, mined mainly near Ouro Preto, Brazil.
- Golden or sherry topaz – the classic November birthstone colour.
- Blue topaz – London Blue, Swiss Blue and Sky Blue; nearly all blue topaz is colourless topaz treated to turn blue, which makes it very affordable.
- Pink topaz – rare natural pinks from Pakistan, or treated versions.
- Mystic topaz – a rainbow coating on colourless topaz.
Topaz meaning and symbolism
Ancient Greeks believed topaz gave strength; Renaissance Europeans thought it could calm anger and break spells. Today the November birthstone topaz is associated with love, affection, emotional balance and clear thinking. Blue topaz is the traditional gift for a 4th wedding anniversary, and imperial topaz for a 23rd.
Citrine: The Modern November Birthstone
Citrine is a golden form of quartz. Natural citrine is rare; much of the citrine on the market is amethyst or smoky quartz that has been heat-treated to turn yellow-orange — a stable, accepted treatment. The name comes from the French citron, meaning lemon.
Citrine meaning and symbolism
Citrine is nicknamed the “merchant’s stone” and “success stone” because it is associated with prosperity, optimism and good fortune. Its sunny colour makes it a favourite for anyone who wants a cheerful, affordable November birthstone. It is also the traditional gift for a 13th wedding anniversary.
Topaz or Citrine: Which November Birthstone Should You Choose?
- Choose topaz for maximum durability, blue shades, or an heirloom-quality imperial stone.
- Choose citrine for a budget-friendly golden stone in larger sizes.
- Choose both for a warm, layered look – golden topaz studs with a citrine pendant.
November Birthstone Prices (Rough Guide)
| Stone | Typical price per carat |
|---|---|
| Blue topaz (treated) | Low – very affordable |
| Citrine | Low to moderate |
| Golden topaz | Moderate |
| Imperial topaz | High – rises sharply with size and colour |
Prices vary with colour, clarity, cut and size, so compare certified stones from reputable jewellers.
November Birthstone by Zodiac Sign
November birthdays belong to Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) and Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21). Deep golden topaz suits intense Scorpio, while bright citrine matches adventurous Sagittarius. Read more about Scorpio in our October zodiac sign guide.
How to Care for Your November Birthstone
- Topaz: hard but can split with a sharp knock; clean with warm soapy water. Avoid steam cleaners and sudden temperature changes.
- Citrine: warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid long exposure to strong sunlight and heat, which can fade some stones.
- Store separately in a soft pouch to avoid scratches.
November Birthstone Gift Ideas
- London Blue topaz pendant.
- Citrine stud earrings for everyday wear.
- Golden topaz cocktail ring.
- A family ring with each birthday month.
- Citrine bracelet for someone starting a new job – the “success stone”.
Complete the gift with our birthday wishes for love or birthday wishes for brother. Also see our October birthstone guide.
November Birthstone FAQ
What is the November birthstone?
Topaz is the traditional November birthstone and citrine is the modern one.
What colour is the November birthstone?
Mostly golden yellow to orange; topaz also comes in blue and pink.
Is blue topaz a November birthstone?
Yes. All colours of topaz count, though golden shades are the most traditional. Blue topaz is also listed as a December birthstone.
Learn more from the GIA November birthstones guide.
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