Topaz Gemstone
Topaz precious stone has been used in jewellery for centuries, often in amulets where it was believed to be associated with success and glory.
The name "topaz" is dirived from the Sanskrit word for "fire", tapas.
Birthstone
Topaz - in all of its many colours - is one of the November birthstones. If you are intrigued about the History of Birthstones you can refer to our guide here.
Colours
Topaz appears in a multitude of colours and heat-treating it can change its colour - like creating pink topaz from heating yellow topaz. Clear topaz can change to blue when heating it and these are often indistinguisable from aquamarine.
Natural pink topaz stones are the rarest and fetch a high price.
Sky Blue Topaz and London Blue Topaz are beautiful and quite different shades of blue.
Gold London Blue & White Topaz Trillion Cut Gemstone Pendant
A red topaz, called "Imperial Topaz," was only found in old Russia, and at one point, only royals were permitted to wear it.
Mystic Topaz is a created topaz that creates a mesmerising array of colours of purple, blue and green.
Hardness
Measuring 8 on the Moh's Hardness scale means topaz is a hard stone and can be worn as an everyday gemstone. However, it can be brittle, so care needs to be taken when cutting it and wearing it, and it is advisable not to clean it in an ultrasonic machine.
Crystals
The crystal structure of topaz has square or rhombohedral cross sections.
Silver Blue Topaz & Amethyst Earrings
Geography
Topaz occurs in volcanic lavas and igneous rocks. Light blue topaz is found in the USA. Pink Topaz is found in Pakistan. Topaz is found in quantities of different colours in Brazil.
Metaphysical Properties
Clogau Celebration Ring with White Topaz
It is said to release tension and stabilise emotions. Like its fellow November birthstone, Citrine, it is a great "success" gemstone.
In India, it was believed that wearing Topaz above the heart would prolong life. Shaman's used topaz in their healing rituals.
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