November Birthstone Blue Topaz

What Is The Beautiful November Birthstone?

Prized for its hardness—in fact, one of the strongest naturally occurring minerals—topaz ranks as an 8 on the MOHS hardness scale; it is third in hardness, with Sapphires ranked at 9 on the scale, and diamond, of course, at a hearty 10.

Color-Treated

Color-treated to transform into a radiant blue, this variation of the stone is in reality an intensely saturated yellow gemstone from Brazil.

Imperial

With its origin in Russia as a red crystal, this variation is famed for its connection to seventeenth-century Russian Tsars who claimed ownership over this sunset-hued gemstone.

Blue

As the most sought after of the varieties, the blue stone also occurs in a warm champagne hue that is sometimes mistaken for quartz stone because of the similar natures of the two distinct stones. The resemblance is often so confusing that official testing is needed to differentiate between the two.

The History of Topaz

The November birthstone has a long and fascinating history. The ancient Greeks based their love of topaz on their belief that it provided them with immense strength and vitality.

In contrast, early European culture believed it could counteract evil magic spells and dispel unchecked anger.

For centuries, people in India have believed the stone, worn above the heart would assure long life, and beauty. It’s even believed that it could act as a calming stone, capable of inspiring relaxation, and even as a tool to ward off bad dreams. Topaz continues to inspire us even today: some even believe they can guard themselves against evil by adorning themselves with the tantalizing stone.

Most important, this beautiful stone in ring (particularly blue), or broach, necklace, or even earrings is a wonderful celebration gem of every event from the traditional fourth and twenty-third wedding anniversaries, to a treasured November birthday.

What Color is Topaz?

Many do not know that Topaz, in its earliest state is colorless; impurities are the catalysts that turn it almost any hue, from yellow to amber being the traditional tones, to blue, and even the Imperial variety, which is a reddish-orange gem with pink undertones. The latter is considered the most valuable form of the captivating stone.

Where is it Found?

Among the most recognized sources for the high-quality, Minas Gerais in Brazil has been mined for over two centuries.

Known for its distinctive pink, Pakistan has been produced the stone from its mines as far back as 1972.

Today, this favorite November birthstone’s origins include Namibia, Nigeria, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and the United States.

Here are a few beautiful topaz November birthstone alternatives.