November Birthstone

"Who first comes to this world below
In dreary November's fog and snow,
Should prize the topaz amber hue,
Emblem of friends and lovers true."

The traditional birthstone for the ones born in November is Topaz. The November birthstone Topaz gets its name from a Sanskrit word that means 'fire'. It was said to control heat in ancient believes, and was supposed to have power over boiling water. Topaz was used to control anger and was even said to control fever.

About Topaz
There was an ancient belief during the 13^th century that topaz when engraved along with a falcon would help one develop a good will of the kings, princes and other royal bloods. Its color is yellow and the Egyptians believed it to be a glow cast by Ra, the sun-god. According to the history of birthstones, topaz was said to increase the power of mind, wisdom and even help in prevention of mental illnesses. Traditional medicinal use included adding powdered topaz to wine and drinking the concoction. This was said to help in preventing asthma and insomnia. Topaz used to be immersed in wine for three days and nights. Then this wine was rubbed onto the eyes to improve weak eyesight.

Color
Apart from shades of yellow, the other color of topaz includes blue, pale green, pink, brown and black. If you find a pure topaz gemstone, you will find it is clear or colorless. The colors are formed due to minor element substitutions and defects in the topaz crystal. In some cases, the November birthstone color can be changed. For example, heating can induce color change in the stone or brown topaz can be bleached in sun. blue topaz is formed by high energy irradiation and moderate heat treatment.

Alternatives
According to the birthstone by month chart, Citrine is also considered to be a November birthstone. This is yellow gem that belongs to the group of quartz. It was said to provide protection against snake venom and evil thoughts. The word Citrine comes from the old French word 'citron' that means lemon.

Jewelry
Just as Egyptians thought topaz was a sacred gemstone for their sun-god Ra, Romans too believed it was sacred for their sun-god, Jupiter. Both, topaz as well as Citrine are warm, yellow in color and give out a brilliant flare in sunlight.

There are many who make Topaz jewelry, as it is said to confer its properties onto the one wearing it. This jewelry is said to give its wearer the ability to see the truth over magic spells cast on them. It is also said a ring made of topaz could reveal the presence of poison by changing its color.

People also wore necklace consisting of topaz as it was said to increase strength in an individual. It was also said, that it made the wearer more faithful and constant. A necklace made of Citrine was said to bring clear vision to the wearer, so much so, that it helped one see through deception and find truth. A ring made of Citrine was said to instill self-confidence, strength and generosity in the wearer. Such people are also said to brighten up their lives with creativity and prosperity.

This was some information related to the November birthstone Topaz. You should speak to a traditional birthstone expert and chose a birthstone that suits you individually. Hope, the above article has helped you learn some information related to the November birthstone and its properties.