Description
Pure topaz is colorless, but it also occurs in a broad range of colors: yellow, blue, pink, peach, gold, green, red, and brown. Some natural yellow stones are heated to become permanently pink (pinked topaz). Whatever the color, topaz has some wonderful gem qualities due to its high refractive index and its ability to take a fabulous polish. Topaz typically occurs in cavities in rhyolites and granite, in pegmatite dikes, and in high-temperature veins with cassiterite and tourmaline. The stone is transparent with a vitreous lustre. A light yellow, brown and pink variety of topaz are valued as a gemstone. The pure crystals of topaz used a great deal in jewelry. The name topaz is derived from the Indian Sanskrit word tapas, meaning fire. According to another theory topaz derives its name from the Island of Topazos, in the Red Sea, where the Romans obtained a stone which they called by this name, but which was the modern chrysolite or peridot. Topaz along with citrine are birthstones of Scorpion: Oct. 24 – Nov. 21. Topaz is the anniversary gemstone for the 4th and 19th year of marriage.
Topaz stimulates an endocrine system. It assists in general tissue regeneration. Topaz is valuable in the treatment of hemorrhages. It also increases poor appetite and helps fighting blood disorders. Topaz balances emotions and calms passions. It releases tension and gives feelings of joy. Topaz helps to improve the eyesight. The Greeks trusted topaz’s supernatural power to increase strength and make its wearer invisible in times of emergency. Topaz was also said to change color in the presence of poisoned food or drink. Its mystical curative powers changed with the phases of the moon.
Nothing compares to the sparkling brilliance of Blue Topaz. Orange-red Imperial Topaz is rare. As topaz has a hardness of 8, keep your gems in separate boxes to protect other jewelry from scratches. Also avoid large temperature changes. Topaz often becomes paler if kept out in the sun. Do not clean topaz in a home ultrasonic cleaner. The best way to clean topaz is warm soapy water. Topaz is Stone of Strength noted by Greeks. During medieval days it was thought to heal physical and mental disorders as well as prevent death. Topaz looks beautiful in rings, bracelets, necklaces, and pendants. Red and intense pink are the most rare and most desirable colors for topaz. Pure topaz when brilliant-cut sometimes is mistaken for diamond.
Important sources of topaz are in Russia, Siberia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Africa & China, Japan, Pakistan, Myanmar, Nigeria, Australia, Mexico, & in the U.S.(Maine, New Hampshire, California, Colorado, Utah). In the United States the best topaz has been worked near Pikes Peak, Colorado, and in San Diego county, California. The largest known deposits are located in Minas Gerais in Brazil. The finest British topaz is found in the Cairngorm Mountains in the Central Highlands, especially at Ben a Buird, Scotland.