Topaz Facts And Trivia

Those born in the month of November and December, are usually very familiar with topaz gemstones. This is mainly because yellow topaz represents the November birthstone, and blue topaz represents the December birthstone. People not lucky enough to be born in those two months tend to recognize it because of the beauty and history surrounding it. The yellow topaz used for November is commonly found, whereas in most cases a turquoise or clear topaz becomes heat treated for it to become a blue topaz. Natural blue topaz is extremely rare and quite expensive.



Colors of Topaz



The most popular topaz stone's are usually found in a brown or yellow color. Topaz comes in a variety of other colors such as pink, blue, turquoise, peach, gold and clear. Topaz is known as the "Stone of Strength" due to both its beauty and durability. Interestingly enough, in the Sanskrit language the word topaz translates to the word "fire". During the times of the Middle Ages people believed that the topaz stone had the ability to prevent death by making the mind stronger. Physicians during this time actually prescribed the topaz stone to cure weakened vision as well as preventing or curing mental diseases.



How Topaz is Formed



This beautiful stone can usually be mined in streams, gravel deposits and various rivers. An important ingredient in locating and mining topaz is the presence of fluorine. Fluorine provides the correct environment that topaz need to grow. If fluorine is present in the correct environment and growing conditions, topaz will develop and begin crystallization. Following the crystallization, it will then begin to produce columns with square and diamond shapes and multi surfaced heads. Topaz is also able to grow in crack and cavities where fluorine and silica is abundant. Hot temperatures are also essential to correctly form these topaz gemstones. To obtain the beautiful and intense colors that topaz are known for, there must also be the presence of Chromium Oxide as well.



Where Topaz is Mined



Though the United States is a leader in the production of topaz, it is not the largest producer. Brazil is by far the largest single producer of topaz. Topaz is also extremely prevalent in places like Russia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan in addition to Brazil and the United States. Topaz was first discovered in Poland, where it was mined in the Erz mountains there. Natural topaz is usually quite large when first mined. The largest topaz gem is actually stated to be 585,000 carats. Gems like this are found in museums as they can't e worn easily.



Care



Known as the "Stone of Strength," topaz is an extremely hard stone. It is listed as an 8 on the Mohr's hardness scale, but with a single blow it can be possible to actually split the stone in two. This is why it must always be protected for hard knocks similar to how an opal would react in the same situation.



Topaz Jewelry Buying Tips



So, what are some things an average consumer should be aware of when purchasing an topaz? Incorporating these tips and guidelines during purchase, you can indeed feel secure that you are purchasing a true topaz stone.



* Deal with a jeweler who specializes in topaz stones. If your unable to find one that has this specialty, at least make sure you are going to a jeweler who has an excellent reputation.



* If see topaz jewelry that you are interested in purchasing, ask questions. Unless you are getting a substantial discount, be very careful to verify that this topaz jewelry piece is untreated. Ask about heat treatments, dyes and irradiation.



* Inspect the topaz closely before you purchase it. You are looking for anything irregular or any imperfections or cracks.



* Verify that your topaz has no cracks, is not cloudy and that the light reflect off it evenly.



* Take different pieces or topaz jewelry and compare them to each other. Since no two are alike, pick the one that has the best color, luster and cut.



* Sometimes sellers are not as honest as we would like. Make sure you are getting topaz and not citrine. Be certain yours is the real deal.



Storage Tips



Do not place your topaz near diamonds, sapphires or rubies to avoid it getting scratched. Also, do not place two topaz stones together. Gemstones will scratch each other. The softer gemstone will be scratched by the harder one. Additionally, topaz can be susceptible to losing its color and luster if exposed to heat or sunlight.



Topaz is a beauty stone with an interesting origin and history. It is now readily found in exquisite necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets. It can also be relatively inexpensive depending on the quality of the stone. This interesting and alluring stone can be made into a gift for that special someone that they will not soon forget. Instead of the more common diamonds, rubies and sapphires, try the topaz. You will definitely make a long lasting impression on that special someone, or garner many compliments if purchasing the stone for yourself instead.





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Make a gift of beautiful topaz jewelry to bring a smile to a loved one's face