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The December Birthstone: Blue Topaz

December 2, 2022December 21, 2022Engagement Ringsbirthstone, education, engagement rings, fine jewelry, gemstones, jewelry

December is here and so are all its wintry hues! If you’re looking for a gem that will match this icy season, look no further. Blue topaz is one of December’s birthstones and for good reason.

Blue topaz comes in a range of azure tones, from sky to royal blue- so there’s something for everyone.

Keep reading to learn more about this striking stone.

What Is December’s Birthstone?

Depending on the source, December has 3 to 4 official birthstones. They are: tanzanite, zircon, turquoise, and blue topaz. Despite being very different in composition and properties, all four of these gems are known for their piercing blue color.

In this blog we’re going to be focusing on the ever-clear blue topaz!

What Is Blue Topaz?

Topaz is a silicate mineral, which in its purest state, is entirely colorless. Topaz can be many different colors, including yellow, gray, and red, though it is most often associated with the rare color blue.

Here are some fun facts about topaz:

1. On the Mohs scale of hardness, topaz registers at an 8 out of 10. This means it is harder than tanzanite and almost as tough as sapphire! Topaz is one of earth’s hardest naturally occurring gemstones, making it ideal for everyday wear- no matter how you choose to rock it.

2. Did you know that topaz has pleochroism? This means that depending on the angle of light, topaz can vary in color. Every which way you move, your topaz will appear in different aquatic hues.

3. And finally: topaz is also the gemstone for the 4th, 19th, and 23rd wedding anniversaries. Gifting your loved one a topaz piece for your December anniversary will make the occasion all the more meaningful.

Blue Topaz Birthstone Origin and History

In the Hindu religion, topaz means heat. In Sanskrit, the word ‘topazion’ means fire. This is likely because when it was first discovered, topaz was only known for its yellow-orange variety. In the 1700s, the name topaz came to refer to the gem we are now familiar with.

In the 1970s, gemologists discovered how to take colorless topaz, expose it to heat, and produce that iconic vibrant blue. Since then, the popularity of blue topaz has been on a steady incline.

Today, blue topaz can be found all over the globe, from Southeast Asia to Central Europe, to Southern Africa.

Blue Topaz Symbolism and Meaning

Blue topaz is not only cool in color. Topaz has a rich history of being associated with having a cool mind as well.

Even in the Middle Ages, people believed topaz could break curses and dispel fits of anger. In India, topaz has long been purported to assure a long life, beauty, and intelligence.

Today, blue topaz more commonly represents true love. A love that is clear-sighted, honest, and communicative.

Let the crystal clear transparency of the blue topaz inspire such qualities within your own relationships!

December Birthstone Colors and Appearance

Topaz naturally occurs in a columnar shape. For this reason, it tends to look its best in oblong cuts such as baguette, oval, and pear shapes. For the best clarity and color, go for an open facet cut.

In addition to shape and cut, topaz also varies in color. Blue topaz comes in three different hues: sky blue, London blue, and swiss blue.

Sky blue is pale with a light tone and saturation, London blue is deep with a moderate tone and saturation, and swiss blue is highly vibrant and rich in tone and saturation. Swiss blue does not occur naturally in nature but is highly sought after due to its electric shade.

Whether it’s pale, deep, or bright, any topaz is sure to turn heads and stun while doing so.

Types of Blue Topaz Jewelry

Blue topaz makes a beautiful addition to any piece of jewelry. Whether it’s a gift for someone else or a treat for yourself, topaz is the perfect December present!

Here are just a few ways you can show off this stunning birthstone.

Blue Topaz Rings

If you’re looking for a quieter way to don this regal gem, keep your eyes out for a blue topaz ring. Small but mighty, a topaz ring will add just a dash of striking blue to your ensemble. What’s not to love?

Blue Topaz Necklaces

Are you into statement pieces? A blue topaz necklace is the perfect way to draw attention to this birthstone. Front and center, a necklace will present this dazzling blue to everyone you encounter- loud and clear!

Blue Topaz Earrings

A pair of earrings means double the dazzle! Throwing on a pair of blue topaz earrings will instantly elevate your look while helping to keep your wits about you.

Blue Topaz Bracelets

Who doesn’t love a little shine around the wrist? A blue topaz bracelet will showcase this beautiful gem in a neat row of dazzling blue. Paired with another piece of topaz jewelry, and voila! Your look is complete.

What Jewelry Metals Look Good With Blue Topaz

Platinum silver is by the far the most popular metal type to pair with blue topaz. Silver and white gold accentuate the blue topaz’s clean and sleek energy beautifully.

Rose gold is another popular option. The contrast between the blue and rose tones creates a compelling pair.

But don’t feel the need to only stick to these suggestions! Think about your skin tone, eye color, and personal taste. Given the varying hues of blue topaz, you can pair it with just about any metal type!

How To Care For Blue Topaz Jewelry

Just like any other crystal, dirt and grime can easily accumulate on the surface of your topaz. Thankfully, this gem is very easy to maintain.

When you want to clean your stone, you can easily do so with warm water and soap. Make sure you scrub it gently with a brush or washcloth. Pat it dry and watch its shine return!

While this may sound very simple, make sure not to leave your topaz in water for too long. Doing so may cause damage to your piece. The cleaning process should be short, simple, and easy!

Just remember to handle your gem with care, and you’re all set.

To Wrap Up

If you ever feel like you need some clarity of mind, simply look to blue topaz to change that! You may be surprised at the results.

This December, you can pay homage to the chill of the season with equally chilly jewelry. We’re sure you’ll be cool as ice!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Rachel Glassman

Rachel is fond of the written word and the moving image- and will talk about both with anyone who will listen!

What Is The Birthstone For November?

October 31, 2022November 3, 2022Engagement Ringsbirthstone, citrine birthstone, citrine jewelry, november birthstone

November is here and so is sunny, sparkling citrine!

What Is November’s Birthstone?

For many parts of the world, November is a time of changing leaves, warm drinks, and the transition into winter! The cozy warmth of this month is on full display in the orange hue of a Citrine crystal.

But Citrine is not the only birthstone for November! Topaz also shares the title for this month’s sunny gem. While topaz is often golden-yellow, it can also appear pale blue, green, or totally clear.

What Is Citrine?

Citrine is a crystal variety of quartz. While Citrine is cloudy or smoky in its natural form, it is best known for its transparent fiery hue. Citrine can appear anywhere from pale yellow to radiant orange.

In many languages, the word ‘citrine’ means ‘lemon’, which perfectly fits the citrus-color of this gem.

As fashion trends began to favor earth tones, Citrine boosted in popularity. Today, it is highly sought after, not only during November, but year round.

14K Yellow Gold Citrine Station Necklace

14K Yellow Gold Citrine Birthstone Earrings

Citrine Birthstone Origin and History

Citrine has been around for thousands of years! Citrine can be found in all corners of the globe: from Scottish highlands to Brazilian rainforests. Perhaps it is this worldly history that gives Citrine its regal and vintage quality.

Notable Greek and Roman figures were known to wear rings adorned with Citrine crystals. But Citrine’s dazzling color didn’t stay in the past- it has remained current throughout history!

Queen Victoria loved Citrine and adopted it into her royal accessories countless times. And later, Hollywood royalty of the likes of Greta Garbo and Joan Crawford paraded this special gem down the red carpet.

Citrine has a rich history, adding a vintage element to a gem that is both classic and current.

Citrine Symbolism and Meaning

There is a reason why so many notable figures of the past favored Citrine! In addition to its dazzling beauty, Citrine holds many symbolic meanings and associations. Warmth, positivity, and illumination emanate from the crystal’s golden color. This is why Citrine has become a symbol of happiness, confidence, and vitality.

With this, Citrine has the ability to bring its wearers a burst of warm energy. The gem is fiery and passionate, just like the sun. Citrine can easily warm your senses and give off a sense of calm- especially during the cold winter months. When looking for a dose of optimism, simply look for Citrine!

Citrine Birthstone Colors and Appearance

In addition to its high clarity and durability, Citrine is prized for its rich color! The paler the orange, the more common it is. The darker the orange, the more valuable it is. Stones in a uniform dark orange, for example, are fairly rare and highly sought after.

Stones that appear reddish-orange or reddish-brown are the ones that are the rarest.

Whether you are drawn towards Citrine, which is yellow or fiery red, it is sure to give you the spark of warmth that you need.

Types of Citrine Jewelry

Today, you can find just about any piece of jewelry that features Citrine! Whether it be understated and subtle or loud and eye-catching, each piece will beautifully display this alluring stone.

Citrine Rings

Sometimes our hands need a dash of color, too! Wearing a Citrine ring is a quieter way to incorporate this gem into your look. Although they might be small, a Citrine ring will sparkle with every gesture of your hand!

14K Yellow Gold Infinity Citrine Birthstone Ring

Citrine Necklaces

Citrine necklaces are a great way to really show off the glow that Citrine offers. Hanging around your neck, you can give everyone you pass a dose of warmth. We’re sure they won’t be able to look away!

18K Yellow Gold Emerald Cut Citrine And Diamond Necklace

Citrine Earrings

When it comes to beautiful gems, we say the more the merrier! Having a Citrine stone dangling from each ear will frame your face with golden warmth. Their rich color will match darker colored eyes nicely- or accentuate lighter ones.

18K Yellow Gold Bezel Hexagonal Citrine Hook Earrings

What Are Madeira Citrine

‘Madeira’ comes from the word ‘wood’ or ‘wood colored’ in Portuguese. This is why the darkest type of Citrine is called Madeira Citrine. This rare type of Citrine is found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Madagascar.

Heating amethyst within the crystal results in the Madeira’s characteristic fiery red color. This rare stone is sure to brighten up any look- any time of year.

How Is Citrine Cut

Citrine is often available in large pieces. To emphasize color and remove any flaws, the stone is cut and shaped.

We don’t often think about it, but the cut of your gem makes a huge difference! The cut (or shape) of your Citrine can help you enhance the radiance of your jewelry immensely.

The most common cuts for Citrine are oval or round, followed by rectangular cuts. These shapes are sure to reinforce the soft luster of your gem!

18K Yellow Gold Emerald Cut Bezel Citrine Cocktail Ring

14K Yellow Gold Cushion Cut Madeira Citrine Checkerboard Leverback Earrings

What Jewelry Metals Look Good With Citrine

Citrine is an easy gem to incorporate into any wardrobe! Yellow-gold pieces will match the richness of your gem brilliantly. This classic pairing makes the perfect accessory for your favorite fall outfits.

If you want your Citrine to stand out, however, opt for pieces made with sterling silver or white gold. This gorgeous contrast will help your gems pop!

This versatility is what makes Citrine that much more lovable!

14K Yellow Gold Cushion Cut Madeira Citrine Checkerboard Leverback Earrings (10.0x10.0mm)

14K Yellow Gold Oval Citrine Birthstone Necklace

18K Yellow Gold Octagon Citrine And Diamond Ring (12.0x12.0mm)

How To Care For Citrine

Always remember to take care of your gems! Thankfully, Citrine is very easy to care for.

When you want to clean your stone, you can easily do so with warm water and soap. Make sure you scrub it gently with a brush or washcloth. Pat it dry and watch its shine return!

While this may sound very simple, make sure not to leave your Citrine in water for long periods of time. Doing so may cause damage to your piece. The cleaning process should be short, simple, and easy!

To Wrap Up

November may be associated with cooler weather and the advent of winter, but that is exactly why Citrine is so fitting!

If you’re ever lamenting the loss of sun, simply look down at the Citrine on your ring or the one hanging off your neck, and be reminded of your inner warmth. This honey-colored gem is sure to brighten up even the coldest days!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Rachel Glassman

Rachel is fond of the written word and the moving image- and will talk about both with anyone who will listen!

Birthstone Engagement Ring Ideas For Each Month

November 2, 2022November 6, 2022Engagement Ringsbirthstone, birthstone engagement rings, birthstone rings, engagement rings

Does your significant other love their birthday as much as their wedding day? Is their Zodiac sign a part of who they are? Or are you simply looking for a colorful twist to your engagement ring?

Then consider birthstone engagement rings! The perfect way to add a personal touch, unique meaning, and a pop of color. Love the red of January’s garnet but were born in March? Go for it! We won’t tell!

What Is a Birthstone?

First of all, what IS a birthstone? We’ll explain. A birthstone is a gemstone that represents the month a person was born. Each month has its own unique gemstone. From religious foundations in the Book of Exodus, to celestial forces, astrology, and beyond, different cultures associate different meanings to the various birthstones including good luck and good health.

Why Choose A Birthstone Engagement Ring?

Technically, everyone who wears a diamond engagement ring is wearing a birthstone engagement ring as diamonds are the birthstone for April. While choosing the birthstone of your partner is a great way to add personalization to the engagement ring, you can also choose a birthstone based on its meaning.

You can even choose a birthstone based on its color! Whatever your reason, choosing a birthstone engagement ring is a wonderful way to start forever with a pop of color.

Birthstone Engagement Rings: Month to Month

Birthstone engagement rings offer incredible variety! From the reds and purples of January’s garnet, February’s amethyst, July’s ruby, to the blues of September’s sapphire, December’s topaz, and March’s aquamarine, birthstone engagement rings allow your partner to express their personal style.

Channel that lucky feeling in the greens of May’s emerald and August’s peridot, or feel the warmth of fall every day with November’s citrine. Prefer a classic? Can’t go wrong with April’s diamond, June’s pearl, or October’s opal.

Wherever your partner was born, whichever symbolism fits them best, James Allen has the right gemstone engagement ring to get that yes.

January Birthstone: Garnet

Symbolizing love and passion, January’s birthstone garnet is a great choice for a birthstone engagement ring. Popularly known for their fiery red color, garnets in fact come in multiple colors. Make garnet shine by setting it in white gold or platinum, or go for a regal look by setting your gemstone in yellow gold

Go for side stones or a pavé style for some diamond decoration and get a perfect glamorous look.

February Birthstone: Amethyst

February’s birthstone, the amethyst, is found in the month of love, where we find Valentine’s Day. This violet quartz is fabulous for a number of reasons. Rating 7 on the Moh hardness scale, it is pretty resistant to scratches and perfect for the love with an active lifestyle.

Ancient Greeks believed this amazing gemstone could protect you from drunkenness, in which case, bring on the champagne! No matter how many cocktails you indulge in, amethyst’s purple looks stunning in white gold but positively reigns when set in yellow or rose gold.

This affordable option will make any bride-to-be happy no matter when they were born!

March Birthstone: Aquamarine

Literally meaning “water of the sea,” March’s birthstone gives you that peaceful feeling you get every time you look at a clear blue ocean. It is fitting that this stone which symbolizes serenity is the birthstone for the first month of spring.

While it symbolizes tranquility, aquamarine exudes strength, ranking a 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, making it a perfect choice for a ring that is worn every day. Bring out its icy shine in white gold or platinum or go for a bold, colorful look and set your stone in yellow or rose gold.

No matter if your betrothed-to-be was born in March or not, they are sure to love this peaceful piece of perfection.

April Birthstone: Diamond

Diamonds are everyone’s best friend, but if you were born in April, they are also your birthstone. This traditional engagement ring is fabulous for many reasons: looks good in every metal, is fabulous alone or with side stones, and of course, is a beloved classic.

Whether you prefer a modern tension set or find yourself wanting a classic solitaire engagement ring, diamonds give an endless, timeless dazzle. Want an engagement ring that will leave them shook? Check out this Halo pavé combo:

May Birthstone: Emerald

Feel like you’re in Emerald City whenever you rock a gorgeous emerald engagement ring. Symbolizing romance and rebirth and giving the feeling that spring has sprung, this gemstone has long been the favorite of royalty.

Looking fabulous in both yellow and white gold, as well as platinum, this rare gemstone is a good choice for those interested in a large size. Emeralds have a less dense composition than their traditional diamond counterpart, making them larger in size.

With another bit of luck, imperfections can actually improve the value of an emerald! It is no wonder May’s birthstone has everyone feeling green.

June Birthstone: Pearl

The world’s oldest gem is also one of the most beautiful. This classic gemstone, yes the pearl is a gemstone, is incredibly versatile! From the classic pearl necklace to a gorgeous pair of earrings, the pearl seamlessly fits into classic and modern styles.

Wearing pearls on your wedding day is rumored to bring good luck for your upcoming marriage, making June’s birthstone a perfect choice for a unique engagement ring. After all, why not get that good marriage mojo from the moment you say Yes!

July Birthstone: Ruby

There’s a reason Dorothy rocked this gemstone on her infamous shoes. Symbolizing passion, wisdom, and power, this ravishing red gemstone comes in varying shades of darkness, but whatever its shade, it looks stunning in both yellow and white gold settings.

Whether or not your love was born in July, they are sure to love an engagement ring featuring July’s birthstone, the ruby, that leaves them feeling like royalty.

August Birthstone: Peridot

The saying “it ain’t easy being green” sure doesn’t apply to August’s birthstone! Featuring a more yellowish tint compared to its emerald counterpart, peridot shines as bright as a summer day.

Peridot is a particularly perfect choice for those who prefer a vintage vibe. Pair it with yellow or white gold and add some extra diamonds for the ultimate dazzle. Symbolizing strength, what better symbol to use when choosing the ring that will change your life?

September Birthstone: Sapphire

From royalty like Princess Diana to the Titanic’s Heart of the Ocean, sapphires are a long beloved gemstone. Their deep blue hues are highlighted best in white gold and platinum, surround your sapphire with diamonds for that extra dazzle.

Symbolizing wisdom and faithfulness, September’s birthstone is also renowned for its durability. Love the gemstone but wish it came in another color? Wish no more! Sapphires come in pink and yellow as well!

Need another reason? This regal, elegant gemstone will have your beloved feeling like royalty every day.

October Birthstone: Opal

Opal, also sometimes known as the stone of clarity, is beloved for many reasons. Thought to symbolize truth, this gemstone offers a kaleidoscope of colors as seen in the different splashes of this milky-looking masterpiece.

When wearing October’s birthstone, take special care. Opals contain more water than other gemstones, making them more sensitive and thus, prone to damage. Wear your opal engagement ring with pride, but also with care.

November Birthstone: Citrine

Citrine, which gets its name from the French word for lemon, is a beautiful yellow-toned gemstone. While yellow gold best highlights the similar hues of this gemstone, citrine also looks breathtakingly beautiful when set in rose gold, white gold, or platinum.

Symbolizing success, November’s birthstone is as trendy as it is affordable. Choose your colorful citrine engagement ring and shine bright like the sun even on the coolest fall day.

December Birthstone: Blue Topaz

December’s birthstone is said to increase the strength and intellect of anyone who wears it, making this gemstone an ideal choice for an engagement ring. This exquisite stone embodies the iciness of the season while somehow still reminding you of a blue ocean on a clear summer’s day.

Pair your blue topaz with a white gold or platinum setting, to enhance the gemstone’s cool tones, or pair your gemstone with yellow gold to enhance its bold color.

FAQs

Can a birthstone be an engagement ring?

Of course! An engagement ring can be anything you want it to be and a birthstone engagement ring is a wonderful way to add color, a personal touch, and fashionable flair to one of your most important pieces of jewelry.

Can I wear my birthstone everyday?

Yes, and yes! Engagement rings, including birthstone engagement rings, are meant to be worn every day. So go for that glitz daily, and feel free to rock that matching birthstone jewelry every day to have a seamless, colorful look!

What is a good gemstone for an engagement ring?

Any gemstone you want! Whether you prefer your birthstone, the birthstone of your love, or a birthstone from an unaffiliated month simply because you love the color, the best gemstone is the one you love.

How much should a birthstone engagement ring cost?

There is no one rule for how much any engagement ring should cost, let alone a birthstone engagement ring. Gemstones do generally cost less than traditional colorless diamonds, making them a wallet-friendly way to go. So how much you should spend depends on your income, budget, and preferences.

What month is best to buy an engagement ring?

The best time to shop for an engagement ring is about three months before you plan on popping the question.

September and October are considered the best months to buy an engagement ring as the jewelry industry experiences a period of quiet, and many vendors offer sales to encourage shopping before the holiday season starts.

However, at James Allen, we offer competitive sales and prices all year round, making the best time to buy an engagement ring whenever you are ready!

What is the most common engagement ring stone?

Diamonds, April’s birthstone, is the classic and most common engagement ring stone, specifically white, colorless diamonds. Sapphire, topaz, and emerald closely follow in popularity.

Why are birthstone engagement rings popular?

Birthstone engagement rings are popular because they add a personal touch and a pop of color and allow the wearer to express personal style. They can also be paired with diamonds to combine uniquely with the traditional.

Final Thoughts

Your perfect person deserves the perfect ring. Birthstone engagement rings are great alternatives to traditional diamond engagement rings. They add color, symbolism, and personalization in a unique, modern way.

If your significant other was born in April and their birthstone is a diamond, you can choose another month whose birthstone meaning best fits and accentuate it with diamonds. Birthstone engagement rings have endless possibilities, combinations, and customizations. Head to JamesAllen.com and get started!

Sarah Axelrad

Sarah is a stickler for grammar and prefers to use the Oxford comma. She enjoys her career as a writer since being a professional snowboarder/powerlifter/pastry chef didn’t pan out.

november-birthstone-cushion-cut-madeira-citrine-checkerboard-leverback-earrings-cover

All about November Birthstone with James Allen’s tips

November 11, 2018October 10, 2021Education, Fine Jewelryamethyst, birthstone, birthstones, celebrity, celebrity lookalikes, celebrity rings, citrine, citrine birthstones, education, fine jewelry, gemstone, gemstone jewelry, gemstone rings, gemstones, november birthstone, quartz, topaz

Citrine, the November birthstone, is one of the top-selling yellow gemstones. Here’s why.

If you’re a lover of citrus fruit and earth tones in general, you’re in for a real treat with this month’s birthstone. Introducing citrine, the vitamin C of gemstones. Citrine gets its succulent-sounding name from its lemon-yellow coloration.

Wearers of the November birthstone are said to experience enlightenment, optimism, warmth, and clarity, as well as a decrease in negative energy. It’s also thought to aid in healing the physical self.

Browse citrine jewelry

November Birthstone: Sweet Citrines Are Made of This

november birthstone citrine diamond huggie earrings — Citrine Diamond Huggie Earrings

Like amethyst, citrine is a variety of quartz – one of the most abundant minerals in the Earth’s crust. Its yellow-to-orange hues are caused by trace amounts of iron in its crystal structure.

Don’t worry, you won’t be tested on any of this!

November Birthstone: Few and Far Citrine

Given the abundance and variety of quartz, you’d be forgiven for thinking that citrine, too, is a common gemstone. However, natural yellow citrine is actually quite rare.

Nevertheless, the November birthstone is relatively affordable, so you can get a much larger, more ornate stone for your dollar. Citrine’s value is not determined by size, but rather by the intensity of color. The more intense the color, the more expensive the stone.

Pro tip: Citrine is often mistaken for the more valuable gemstone topaz, which has a similar appearance. Make sure you’re not overpaying for citrine mislabeled as topaz.

November Birthstone: Celebs and Citrine

18K Yellow Gold Octogan Citrine And Diamond Ring — Octogan Citrine and Diamond Ring

Kate Middleton may officially go by The Duchess of Cambridge, but we know her simply as the Queen of Citrine. Her ring is estimated to be around five to seven carats, yet surprisingly light on the purse strings.

Another celeb to say Hello to the November birthstone is Adele. The Grammy Award winner swears by citrine and won’t perform without it. She goes so far as to attribute the success of her live shows to the crystal’s supposed powers.

November Birthstone: A Citrine Come True

Do you dream of citrine? Let us know in the comments below or over on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.

Check out our previous guides: January garnets, February amethysts, March aquamarines, April diamonds, May emeralds, July rubies.

Follow the yellow gift tones (Pin it!)

november birthstone citrine pinterest pin

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Jonny Hart

Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.