Topaz: November’s Birthstone
Every month is associated with a unique gemstone, and November’s birthstone is Topaz. While many people are familiar with the modern list of birthstones, which was established in 1912 as part of a marketing strategy, there are various historical and mythical theories surrounding birthstones. The modern list often replaces some original gemstones with more accessible and marketable alternatives.
Topaz is a versatile gemstone, available in a stunning range of colors, from blues to yellows and peach tones. The most common color for November’s birthstone is blue, but the rare peach variety is especially prized. In the image above, you’ll see a pair of striking silver earrings featuring large pear-shaped blue topaz gemstones. The unique setting is designed with a drilled pattern, allowing light to pass through and enhance the brilliance of the topaz.
For more info on Topaz click on the link for the International coloured gemstone association.
Poem
The Georgian calendar even has a poem dedicated to each gemstone of each month:
By her who in this month, of January, is born.
No gem save garnets should be worn.
They will ensure her constancy,
True friendship, and fidelity.
The February-born shall find
Sincerity and peace of mind.
Freedom from passion and from care,
If an amethyst they will wear.
Who in this world of ours their eyes
In March first open shall be wise
In days of peril firm and brave,
And wear a bloodstone to their grave.
She who from April dates her years
Diamonds shall wear, lest bitter tears
For vain repentance flow; this stone,
Emblem of innocence, is known.
Who first beholds the light of day
In spring’s sweet flowery month of May
And wears an emerald all her life
Shall be a loved and happy wife.
Who comes with summer to this earth,
And owes to June her hour of birth,
With ring of agate on her hand
Can health, wealth, and long life command.
The glowing ruby shall adorn,
Those who in July are born;
Then they’ll be exempt and free
From love’s doubts and anxiety.
Wear a sardonyx or for thee,
No conjugal felicity;
The August-born without this stone,
`t Is said, must live unloved and lone.
A maiden born when September leaves
Are rustling in September’s breeze,
A sapphire on her brow should bind
`Twill cure diseases of the mind.
October’s child is born for woe,
And life’s vicissitudes must know,
But lay an opal on her breast,
And hope will lull those woes to rest.
Who first comes to this world below
With drear November’s fog and snow,
Should prize the topaz’s amber hue,
Emblem of friends and lovers true.
If cold December gave you birth,
The month of snow and ice and mirth,
Place on your hand a turquoise blue;
Success will bless whatever you do.
