Topaz is considered the more precious of these two stones, and is commonly identified by the colour. In a perfect formation, topaz is colourless and it is elemental impurities that give it its colours. Some of the most expensive varieties are that of orange topaz (called Imperial topaz) and yellow topaz, and a brighter, clearer shade often fetches a higher price.
Today, the most common topaz used in jewellery is blue topaz, followed by pink, and orange topaz. It was hugely popular in the 18th and 19th centuries when it was worn by several aristocratic families and prized for its ability to protect the wearer and give them strength.
Citrine on the other hand has been popular for thousands of years. It was often mistaken for topaz in ancient times due to its natural colour variations. It can be relatively affordable compared to topaz, and as a variety of quartz, it’s also much easier to mine. However, that doesn’t make it any less gorgeous as a centrepiece on piece of jewellery. Today, citrine is known as a stone of abundance and positivity, with many believing it attracts fortune for the wearer.
Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, as queen to the House of Orange, is known to own and wear several citrine jewellery pieces. Though Orange in her title doesn’t refer to the colour, she and the rest of the Dutch royal family are partial to sporting the colour in both dresses and jewels at formal functions. The Dutch citrine brooch is one such stunning piece, which Queen Máxima has worn on its own, and most notably, paired with a diamond bow that one belonged to Queen Emma.
Alongside the Dutch citrine brooch, Queen Máxima is also seen often wearing her citrine and diamond bracelet. Several clear orange citrines are set against bright diamonds, creating a bracelet that always stands out no matter what the Dutch queen pairs it with.
If you’re looking to add a pop of warmth with the dazzling shades of topaz and citrine, here are some pieces you might like.
Cartier
Fauna and flora bracelet
This bracelet and brooch combo from Cartier’s high jewellery collection features a cushion-shaped pink topaz as the focus. Together with the pearl-set band, it brings us right back to the Art Deco era of old Hollywood and flapper dresses. Even though you’d be wearing it in the 21st century, it’s sure to bring that glitz and glam to your outfit.
Harry Winston
Majestic Escapes Seville necklace
Inspired by the golden sunsets and rich culture of Seville, this stunning statement piece from Harry Winston is sure to bring Spain’s warmth to your ensemble. The bright pink cabochon rubellite gem in the centre is accented by more round and pear-shaped rubellites, as well as pink topaz, morganites and diamonds – all set in 18K rose gold and platinum.
Pomellato
Nudo earrings
These London blue topaz earrings from Pomellato puts topaz in the spotlight, set in a minimal 18K rose gold frame, with bright diamonds accenting the deep blue of the topaz gems. The open setting also allows the topaz to catch light in several directions, changing from deep to light blue with a swing of your head.
Chaumet
Bee My Love Exquises cocktail ring
Featuring a large oval-cut citrine palmera as the centrepiece and the diamond-set golden bee, a symbol of Napolean’s power and a signature motif of this collection, holding up the gemstone, this ring is a true eye-catcher. It’s definitely one to be worn when you’re looking for an accessory to talk about, or if you just need a little extra positivity from the large citrine.
Gemella
Stella multi-stone earrings
This pair of earrings from New York-based fine jewellery house Gemella features 15.8 carats of citrine as the main gem, set in yellow gold to really bring out the sunny warmth of the stone. Contrasted with pink sapphires and with a classic chunky shape, these pair are perfect if you’re looking to spice up your everyday look with a little pop.
See more birthstones from other months here, or head here for more on dazzling jewellery.
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