Topaz: November Birthstone Meaning, History and Care

If you were born in November, your birthstone is topaz, a brilliant gem that has been prized for thousands of years. Best known today in soft sky blue, it's a stone of calm, clarity and good fortune.

Here's everything you need to know about the November birthstone, from its history and meaning to how to wear and care for it, plus our favourite November birthstone jewellery.

• Birth month: November
• Alternative birthstone: citrine
• Colour: found in blue, golden, pink, orange and colourless
• Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
• Main sources: Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria and Pakistan
• Zodiac signs: Scorpio and Sagittarius
• Symbolism: calm, clarity, strength and good fortune
• Anniversary: blue topaz is the traditional gem for a 4th wedding anniversary

Topaz has been admired for thousands of years, and its name has two possible origins.

Where the name comes from

• The Greek "Topazios", an island in the Red Sea known to the ancient world for its gems
• The Sanskrit "tapas", meaning fire

Through the ages

• Ancient Greece: the stone was believed to give its wearer strength
• Renaissance Europe: it was thought to break spells and calm anger
• India: worn above the heart, it was believed to bring wisdom and long life
• Imperial treasure: rare golden-pink "imperial" topaz was prized by Russian royalty in the 19th century

Often called a stone of clarity, topaz is worn by many as a reminder to stay calm, speak honestly and trust their path.

What topaz symbolises

• Calm: blue topaz is traditionally linked to peace and serenity
• Clarity: associated with clear thinking and honest communication
• Strength: once worn for courage and protection
• Good fortune: long believed to bring success and abundance
• Love and loyalty: a popular gift between partners and friends

A rainbow of colours

This gem comes in an array of shades, from sky blue and deep London blue to golden imperial and soft pink. Sky blue remains a favourite for November birthstone jewellery.

These meanings come from centuries of tradition and folklore, which is part of what makes it such a meaningful gift.

Its fresh blue tones look beautiful in both silver and gold, making it easy to wear every day.

Ways to wear it

• Everyday: a dainty birthstone necklace or stud earrings
• Stacked: a slim birthstone ring layered with your favourite bands
• Personalised: an initial necklace with the November birthstone in sterling silver or gold
• Written in the stars: a Scorpio or Sagittarius zodiac necklace with a sky blue drop

Caring for your jewellery

• Clean gently with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush
• Avoid hard knocks, as this gem can chip despite its hardness
• Skip steam and ultrasonic cleaners, and avoid sudden temperature changes
• Take your jewellery off before the gym, gardening or swimming
• Store pieces separately to prevent scratches

For more tips, read our jewellery care instructions.

A meaningful gift

It makes a thoughtful present for November birthdays, Scorpios and Sagittarians, or anyone who loves blue. Our November birthstone jewellery set pairs a necklace with matching studs, ready to give.