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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 also, can come in the colors of blue, pink, peach, turquoise, clear and gold. 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. In addition to the fluorine and silica, hot temperatures must also be prevalent so the gems can form correctly. 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. This gem is actually now in a historical museum.
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. Make sure these particular topaz gemstones have not been treated with dye, heat or irradiation.
* Inspect the topaz closely before you purchase it. You are looking for anything irregular or any imperfections or cracks.
* Make certain that the light reflects off your stone evenly and there are no cracks no matter what color topaz it may be.
* Compare different topaz stones to each other. Since no two are alike, pick the one that has the best color, luster and cut.
* Citrine stones or quartz stones have been attempted to be passed off as genuine topaz. 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. Many times the softer one will end up scratching 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.
