In Jewelry & Fashion
Because they provide beauty without breaking the bank, topaz and citrine have become popular choices in today's world. Today, topaz is available in a "rainbow of colors," which includes orange, pink, violet, and pale blue (2). Topaz is a versatile gem for rings, pendants, and earrings because of this variety and because it is a traditional gift for November birthdays as well as the 19th, 4th, and 23rd wedding anniversaries (5).
Because colorless topaz is relatively cheap and is evaluated using the same standards as diamonds, it can even be used as a diamond substitute. Although the most sought-after topaz is still imperial topaz (reddish-orange), large Brazilian deposits have made even treated blue and yellow stones widely accessible, so there is a topaz shade to fit every Scorpio's taste.
However, citrine is "one of the most affordable and abundant gemstones on the market," so even large, fine gems are still reasonably priced.
Citrine is a popular choice for statement rings, oversized pendants, and vintage-inspired pieces because it can be cut in sizes up to 20 carats without significantly increasing its price. Rich yellows, oranges, and earth-tone browns are highly valued. Scorpios can combine these gems with other November birthstones for bohemian and high-fashion looks, or they can be layered in modern stackable rings due to their affordable price and sunny color scheme (5).
Healing, Wellness, and Spiritual Uses
According to crystal lore, Scorpio birthstones are active companions rather than just ornaments. Citrine and topaz are renowned for their "calming energies" and are believed to bring "fortune and warmth" to those who wear them (2). These attributes speak to Scorpio's need for inner peace in the midst of strong emotions.
From the 1300s to the 1600s, Europeans believed that topaz could calm anger and thwart magic spells, and the ancient Greeks thought it gave them strength (2). Topaz has a long history as a protective talisman. African shamans used topaz in healing ceremonies (5), and Hindus believe that wearing it above the heart guarantees longevity, beauty, and intelligence (2).
According to contemporary folklore, topaz elevates one's mood, reveals dishonesty, and fosters love and good fortune. Citrine, on the other hand, has been "adored for thousands of years as a symbol of manifestation, wealth, and imagination." Ancient Egyptians used citrine as a talisman, Greeks carved symbols into it, and Roman priests set it in rings because they thought it could calm tempers, soothe anger, and satisfy desires.
Additionally, according to Lore, carrying citrine repels negative energy, instills confidence and healing wisdom, and attracts love and prevents heartbreak. By using these stones in meditation or as amulets, Scorpios who are looking for balance can be reminded every day to use their passion for good and to welcome plenty into their lives. (5)
Care and Maintenance
Both citrine and topaz benefit from careful maintenance despite their durability. Although topaz has a Mohs hardness score of 8, it lacks toughness, which means that it can break or chip when exposed to abrupt temperature changes or sharp blows. Because high heat can cause internal breaks, GIA advises against using steam or ultrasonic cleaners.
Instead, use a soft brush and warm, soapy water to clean topaz jewelry. The thin coating on "Mystic Topaz" should only be cleaned with mild soap to avoid abrasion, as prolonged exposure to intense sunlight may fade some yellow-to-brown topaz. Citrine is "durable enough for normal wear" because it is a quartz variety (hardness 7) with good toughness; however, the safest way to clean it is still with warm soapy water.
According to the GIA, steam cleaning is dangerous because the stone could crack from the sudden heat, but ultrasonic cleaning is typically safe for citrine. (2) It is advisable to keep both gems apart in a lined jewelry box or soft pouch because they can be scratched by harder stones like diamonds.
Scorpios can maintain the intensity and warmth of their topaz and citrine jewelry for many years to come by adhering to these easy rules: avoid extremely high or low temperatures, clean your jewelry gently, and store it carefully.