(Check the online store for Topaz Jewelry)

About Topaz

Physical: Topaz is a silicate mineral, and is the hardest silicate mineral on earth. The high concentration of fluorine which is necessary for the formation of topaz is geologically very unusual, which makes topaz a very rare gemstone, especially given the impressive size of some stones. 

Natural topaz is colourless, however, exposure to a variety of impurities can make the stones a range of brilliant shades from blue or pale-green to pink or a warm glowing orange-yellow. Yellow topaz in its autumnal golden glory is the birthstone for November, but all the shades are stunning. Topaz are known for their clarity and being free of any visible flaws. 

While the name for topaz comes from the Greek “Τοpáziοs” which is the ancient name of an island in the Red Sea, the stones found on the island, that were initially believed to be topaz, were actually a different yellow gemstone. Despite this mixup, the name for the stone remains. The name may also have evolved from the Sanskrit word for fire because of its warm colour.

Meaning:  The warm yellow of topaz is soothing and relaxing. Topaz of any colour is believed to help manage stress and anxiety, as well as dispel anger. Topaz are known to bring abundance and joy to the life of the wearer. Good fortune and good luck can also be attributed to topaz, which makes it an excellent stone to give someone as they are starting a new chapter in their life. 

History/Fame

The Ancient Egyptians believed the sun god Ra created topaz by trapping a golden ray of sunlight in the stone. In Ancient Rome, it was believed that a topaz would provide protection to travellers.

Most of the world’s topaz comes from Brazil, but some come from the Ural Mountains in Russia. This area is known for pink-ish stones that were known as “Imperial Topaz” because ownership was restricted to members of the Czar’s family. 

Kate Middleton is well known for accenting a powder blue ensemble with matching baby blue topaz earrings. She has a number of different pairs of beautiful topaz earrings. 

Style Tips

One of the most exciting things about selecting a topaz is the range of colours to choose from. Whether fiery orange, smokey gray, or delicate pink, a topaz can be found to compliment any complexion or preference. Its broad range of colour and stunning clarity make topaz ideal for attention grabbing pieces like bracelets, necklaces and earrings. 

As the birthstone for November, a yellow or orange topaz makes a beautiful gift for the autumnal time of year when the leaves are changing, the colours are warm, and we’re feeling cozy. And for those who, by the end of November, are surrounded by snow instead of red and orange leaves, an icy blue topaz piece can be the perfect winter accessory. 

Care & Cleaning

It should be noted that while exceptionally strong, topaz can be vulnerable to chipping or splitting if exposed to a sudden change in temperature. It is for this reason that topaz should not be steamed or ultrasonically cleaned. Simple soap and water can be used to clean a topaz, and it can be scrubbed gently with a cloth or toothbrush if needed. 

I often have unique and breathtaking Topaz pieces in my online store, it is a beautiful gem to create handmade jewelry with. Shop all Topaz pieces in my online store and get your very own opal gem jewelry shipped right to your door.

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