Topaz: The November Birthstone

The name topaz comes from the Sanskrit word ‘topaz’, meaning ‘fire’, and the ancient Greek word ‘topazios’, which was the name for what is today St. John’s Island in the Red Sea.   

Topaz is a form of silica that is fluorine and aluminum with a unique crystal structure. Common topaz is naturally colorless, but it can appear in many colors including yellow, gray, red and very rarely, pale pink or blue. As blue topaz is very rare in nature, it can be created by man through heat and irradiation applied to colorless topaz. 

The first topaz was discovered over 2,500 years ago, and has held many different meanings over time. The ancient Greeks believed it could protect against enemies, and viewed it as a symbol of beauty and love. In the Middle Ages in Europe, it was believed that topaz could protect against spells and magic, and for centuries many people in India believed that wearing topaz above the heart helps long life, beauty, and intelligence.

A quick guide to topaz

Where is topaz found?

Topaz can be found in many locations around the world, but the largest producer of quality topaz gemstones is Brazil in the state of Minas Gerais. Topaz is mined in many parts of the globe, including:

• Brazil
• Pakistan
• India
• Sri Lanka
• Australia

Source: American Gem Society

The many colors of topaz

Common topaz is colorless in its natural state, but can be treated with radiation or heat to change its color, thereby making it available in many varieties of color.

Often the different color options are defined by adding the name of the color ahead of ‘topaz’, for example, blue topaz, green topaz, pink topaz, etc, but there are some special trade names for specific topaz colors, such as:

• Imperial topaz which is medium red orange to reddish;
• Sherry topaz, whose name comes from sherry wine, and is yellow brown to orange;
  
• Mystic topaz, which is actually colorless topaz that has been artificially coated to give it a rainbow and multi-colored effect on its surface.
  

Cuts & notes on durability

Topaz is a very hard and durable gemstone with crystals that can grow quite large, allowing for larger stones to be cut without compromising their clarity or color. They are mostly cut in an emerald, faceted oval, pear, or round shape, but the brilliant cut is also a popular choice for topaz as it is excellent for maximizing the stone sparkle and brilliance. 

Topaz measures 8 on the Mohs scale, which is the same as spinel but above quartz and below sapphire or diamond. As a result, topaz makes very wearable and durable jewelry suited to everyday wear.

Legends surrounding topaz

In ancient times, topaz was associated with mystical powers and different virtues. For example, it was thought to bring strength to its wearer, Ancient Greeks believed that topaz could harness the power of the sun, and the Ancient Egyptians believed that topaz’s golden color came from the Sun God Ra - this made the gemstone a powerful talisman and protected its wearers from harm.

Topaz in contemporary jewelry

Topaz jewelry trends continue to evolve, reflecting various fashions. Beyond the traditional blue topaz, other colored topazes like pink, yellow, and champagne tones are gaining popularity. Bold and vibrant colors are used to make statements in earrings, rings, and pendants.