Fine Topaz And Topaz Jewelry
It is said that the stone Topaz derives its name from the Sanskrit word ‘tapas’ that means fire. However, it is more likely that the stone derived its name from the Island of Topazos situated in the Red Sea. In the ancient days a figure of a falcon was fashioned on a Topaz and it was thought that it would help acquire the goodwill of magnates, princes and kings.
According to the Greeks, Topaz gives strength as it was connected to the powerful Sun God via the golden glow. The Romans believed that it could help to evade poisoning, as it changed color in front of poisonous substances. It is the birthstone of those born in the months of November and December, in yellow and blue color respectively. Blue topaz is also the 4th and 19th anniversary gemstone for a marriage. The 23rd year of marriage is celebrated with an Imperial topaz. The stone is believed to cure diseases like asthma, insomnia and hemorrhages. Topaz is associated with wisdom, courage and strength.
You might think that the stone that is light blue in color is Topaz. However, it is also found in many other different colors like yellow, white and pink. Sometimes you may find the gold amber of a fine cognac in a topaz or a handsome shade of peach. All the warm shades between orange and brown can also be found in topaz. The sherry red or pale pink shades are rare to find. More rare to find is the ‘imperial’ topaz that is orange-red in color. Sometimes brown and yellow topaz is heated to get the pink color.
Yellow, orange, brown, sherry red and pink topaz stones are found in Sri Lanka and Brazil. Russia and Pakistan are the producers of pink Topaz. The pale blue Topaz, which is enhanced to get a brighter shade, is found in Sri Lanka, Brazil, China and Nigeria. The surface-enhanced topaz came into existence in early 1998, when the stone was irradiated to produce colors like emerald green or greenish blue.
Blue topaz is the most popular one and it is less expensive than the aquamarine variety. The gemstone looks beautiful when set in rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and pendants. Topaz jewelry looks magnificent with almost any outfit. Topaz usually goes well with white metals like sterling silver, white gold or platinum. However, you can also choose to set the gemstone in yellow gold. You should be very cautious when you are buying Topaz jewelry because there are many imitations available in the market.
‘Occidental Topaz’, ‘Bohemian Topaz’ and ‘Madeira Topaz’ are actually yellow quartz. Again, ‘Neveda Topaz’ is smoky obsidian in reality. Orange brown quartz is often sold by the name of ‘Spanish Topaz’. You should always ask for an authentication certificate when you are buying any type of Topaz jewelry.
Proper care of Topaz jewelry is a must to save the stones from any type of damage. The stone should be protected from any type hard blows. You should not allow the surface of the stone to get scratched, as it will spoil the entire look of the jewelry. Large temperature changes are a strict no-no for Topaz jewelry. Topaz jewelry should never be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner. Warm soapy water is the best way to clean your Topaz jewelry.
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I love all colors of Topaz! Isnt it true that a Garnet is just red topaz?