With November comes the falling of leaves, the smell of flavoured coffee up-and-down the high street, and bundles of people draped in scarves, hats and gloves to keep out the chill.
The sights, smells, and frosty-feel to the air are some of the things we think of when asked about this month, but there’s also the strong association of autumnal colours tied to November, making the fiery-coloured gem, citrine, the perfect birthstone for this time of year.
What Is Citrine?
Sometimes referred to as ‘the stone of the mind’, this yellow-golden gem is a member of the quartz mineral group, just as amethyst is.
In its purest form, natural quartz is completely colourless, but iron within the stone is what gives citrine its gorgeous orange shade. However, discovering naturally occurring citrine is extremely rare, and so this gem is often turned the desired colour through heat-treating amethyst to transform it into a deep autumnal colour.
When heated, the iron impurities within quartz are reduced, which results in a rich orange and yellow colour as opposed to the violet and purple shades found within amethyst.
Representing wisdom, courage, and sincerity, citrine got its name from the French word ‘citron’, meaning lemon, which is more true to the colour found within naturally occurring variations of the birthstone.
The Spiritual Properties of Citrine
As with all birthstones, legend would have us believe that wearing the correct birthstone during a particular month heightens its healing properties. For citrine, some people believe that is has natural healing properties for both physical and spiritual ailments.
It is thought that this crystal has cleansing properties that enables wearers to rid themselves of negative energy and opens them up to self-improvement and healing.
Breaking through the negative energy allows the wearer to become more positive and look forward to the future, offering qualities such as inspiration and energy throughout the month of November and beyond.
Caring for Your Citrine Jewellery
Whether you believe that Citrine is able to heal the mind, soul, and spirit, or not, there’s no denying that this gem is a beautiful representation of the month of November.
It is entirely possible for gorgeous Citrine pieces, such as this Links of London Citrine & Silver November Birthstone Charm, to last for many years to come when cared for correctly.
Due to its delicate nature and sensitivity to heat, it’s important that you don’t leave it exposed to prolonged sunlight or high temperatures, as it could cause the bright and bold shades within each gorgeous piece to fade.
Alternatives to Citrine
As with most months throughout the year, there are a few alternative birthstones that are considered to be just as beautiful gifts. For November, these stones are yellow topaz, pearls, and even sometimes diamonds.
However, not everyone wants to be adorned in their birthstone when their birthday rolls around, and there are plenty of alternative pieces of jewellery, watches, and gifts to choose from for the birthday boy or girl in your life.
For more information about any of our products at H Hogarth, please don’t hesitate to speak to a member of our experienced team by calling 01539 722166 or visiting us in store.