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101 www.thejewelrybook.com November This beautiful fall month is represented by the warm colors found in Citrine and Golden Topaz. While Topaz is the traditional stone of choice, Citrine was added because of limited consumer knowledge and availability of the original. Topaz has a rich history in the ancient world. Before the 18th century all brown, yellow, and orange gem- stones were called Topaz. In fact, topaz comes in a wide range of colors including, red, pink, purple, blue, orange, yellow, and brown. The name topaz is derived from the Sanskrit word Tapaz, meaning fi re. The Greeks believed Topaz could increase your strength and make you invisible. The Romans thought it would improve your eyesight. The Egyptians used it to prevent injury. And those superstitious Middle Agers would use Topaz to heal physical and mental disorders. It was also said that rubbing a topaz on a plague wound make them heal faster. Because of the rich golden hue of Topaz many believe it attracts wealth. The term Imperial Topaz came into use during the 19th century and described the most desired shade of Topaz, red. This shade was only to be worn by royalty and thus, the name Imperial was added. Citrine is the yellow variety of Quartz and this alluring gemstone has been used throughout history. Its modern name was fi rst used in 1556 and is derived from the French, Citron, meaning lemon. This warm golden gemstone is believed to help the wearer predict the future upon placing it under your pillow while you sleep. It is known as the merchant stone and was carried by many merchants on their journeys because of its good luck. During the 16th and 17th century, Citrine mined in the Cairngorm Mountains of Scotland was used by Scottish Highlanders in kilt pins and sword hilts. It was a favorite of Queen Victoria, who would require guests, to her Balmoral Castle, to dress in full Highland Plaid and accessorize with citrine jewels. Citrine would make a great gift for any man in your life because it is said to make men more intelligent and handsome. Soaking a citrine in water and then drinking the water is believed to detoxify your body, but please remove the citrine fi rst so you don't choke. Citrine Topaz

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