November Birthstone
The topaz stone is the November birthstone. This gem has been treasured for over 2000 years. It is filled with positive energy and has been greatly appreciated for centuries.
The name “topaz” comes from Greek and the small island called Tapazios in the Red Sea. Tabazios is now called St. John’s Island.
Traditionally it is the yellow topaz which is the birthstone of November. Alternatively the citrine gemstone may be used.
The blue topaz is the 4th anniversary stone. The golden Imperial topaz is the 16th and 23rd anniversary stone.
The topaz is the gemstone of Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21).
Topaz Gemstone Colors
Pure topaz has no color. It is transparent.
The topaz gemstone comes in several different colors.
The glorious golden yellow color topaz is often referred to as the “Imperial topaz”.
Imperial topaz is usually untreated and more expensive. It is absolutely stunning!
The orange topaz stone is also called “the Precious topaz”. The orange topaz is recognized as a symbol of friendship. This would be a perfect gift for someone you care about.
The orange topaz is also the state stone of Utah.
Topaz can also be blue, red, brown or pink. The pink topaz is created by heat treating the yellow topaz.
Most topaz stones sold in jewelry stores today have been heated and irradiated to get the desired color. My all means, this does not make them less beautiful.
Blue topaz jewelry is most common. The blue topaz is the state stone of Texas.
Blue topaz in its natural state is very rare and hard to find.
The majority of blue topaz stones have been irradiated.
Some topaz stones seem to have a variety of different colors. It would seem like the rainbow is captured inside the stone.
These are quite beautiful. They are called “Mystic topaz”.
Actually the mystic topaz is a pure topaz which has been coated and treated by human hands to give the rainbow effect.
Topaz Stone: Symbolism and Superstitions
Throughout the history of this gem it has been told the topaz stone has some amazing qualities.
The owners of the topaz stone should be very happy to know that this stone helps bring prosperity and happiness into their lives.
It is known as the bringer of abundance.
As if that is not enough the topaz stone also has a reputation of promoting good health.
The topaz stone is also known to help anyone feeling stressed. It is said the stone has a relaxing effect and may help people keep calm when they are under a lot of pressure.
It always helps to keep your cool and think straight.
The topaz is also the perfect stone in regards to the law of attraction.
It aids and strengthens visualization and is rumored to help people reach their goals and manifest their dreams.
Who would not want to own a stone which is the bringer of abundance and good health?
People born in November can count their blessings for such an awesome birthstone.
Even though the topaz stone is the birthstone of November it still remains equally popular with those not born during November.
The Topaz Stone in Ancient Times
In Ancient Greece it was believed the topaz stone was the bringer of strength.
In Ancient Rome the topaz was associated with Ra who was the Sun god.
In India a topaz worn just above the heart promised beauty, intelligence and a long life.
The Cooling Effect
The topaz stone is known to cool down very quickly after being dipped in hot water.
This may be why it was believed in the Middle Ages that victims of the plague would benefit and possibly be cured by placing these stones on their skin.
We suspect very few could afford this treatment.
Hildegard of Bingen on Poor Eyesight Cure
Saint Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) was absorbed in the healing powers of herbs and gemstones. Saint Hildegard claimed she had a cure that could help improve poor eye sight.
The method was to soak a topaz stone in wine for three days and three nights. The wine would have gained healing powers and could be applied to the eyeballs.
Medical advice was fascinating to say the least in the Middle Ages.
The Topaz Stone in the Bible
The topaz stone is one of the twelve precious stones in the breastpiece God ordered Moses to make.
There were four rows of stones. On the first row there was a sardius (carnelian), a topaz stone and a carbuncle.
On the second row there was an emerald, a sapphire and a diamond.
On the third row there were a jacinth, an agate, and an amethyst.
On the fourth row there was a beryl, an onyx, and jasper.
These twelve gem stones were to represent the twelve tribes of Israel.
Aaron the brother of Moses was to wear the breastpiece when serving as a High Priest. The breastpiece is described in Exodus chapter 28 and Exodus chapter 39.
In Job chapter 28 the value of wisdom is discussed. Topaz is mentioned in verse 19; “ The topaz of Ethiopia cannot compare with it, nor can it be valued in pure gold.”
Ezekiel tells the story of the king of Tyre. In Ezekiel 28:13 topaz is mentioned;
“You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: carnelian, chrysolite and emerald, topaz, onyx and jasper, lapis lazuli, turquoise and beryl.
Your settings and mountings were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared.”
Revelation chapter 21 describes the New Jerusalem.
The wall of the city has twelve foundations. Each foundation is adorned with jewels.
The first has jasper, the second has sapphire, the third has agate, the fourth has emerald, the fifth has onyx, the sixth has carnelian, the seventh has chrysolite, the eighth has beryl, the ninth has topaz, the tenth has chrysoprase, the eleventh has jacinth, and the twelfth has amethyst.
I love topaz as a birthstone! It is a beautiful, calming stone that is perfect for those who are looking for a symbol of hope.
I love topaz as a birthstone! It is a beautiful, calming stone that is perfect for those who are looking for a symbol of hope.