Topaz
Topaz Stone Meaning and History
The variety of topaz hues encompasses colorless, light blue, yellow, orange, pink, violet, brown, and very rarely, red. The majority of blue topaz seen today is the result of treating colorless topaz with irradiation and heating, producing a permanent color change. The rainbow effect observed in “Mystic Topaz” is achieved by coating colorless topaz with a thin artificial film.
The origin of the word “topaz” is debated, with some suggesting it comes from the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning “fire,” while others trace it back to the Greek "topazos." This November birthstone has long been believed to possess various benefits. Ancient Greeks believed topaz bestowed strength, while Europeans from the 1300s to the 1600s thought it could counter magic spells and dispel anger. For centuries, many people in India have believed that wearing topaz above the heart ensures long life, beauty, and intelligence.
The distinctively pinkish-orange Imperial topaz carries aristocratic cachet. It is commonly believed that the name originated with the Russian royal family's preference for the finest colors of this gem, exclusively mined in Russia’s Ural Mountains, for their own use. Another explanation, particularly favored in Brazil, relates to an 1881 visit by Brazilian Emperor Pedro II to Ouro Preto—the town closest to Brazil’s most productive topaz mines—and the gift of a reddish topaz to him.
Blue topaz is associated with the fourth wedding anniversary, while Imperial topaz is linked to the 23rd wedding anniversary.
Where is Topaz found?
Minas Gerais, a state in Brazil, stands out as one of the most significant sources for high-quality topaz, with mining activities spanning over two centuries. The region yields a spectrum of colors, including yellow to orange, red, pink, violet, and blends of red with orange or purple. The nearby town of Ouro Preto complements this gem-rich area. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Ouro Preto boasts majestic colonial churches punctuating the skyline and charming cobblestone streets weaving through the city.
Northwestern Pakistan is renowned for its production of pink topaz. Ghundao Hill, situated near the small town of Katlang, has been a mining hub since 1972. The most coveted shade of pink topaz from Katlang features a hint of violet, often referred to in the gem trade as cyclamen pink. However, even at Ghundao Hill, this exquisite pink stone is rarely found.
In addition to Brazil and Pakistan, other major sources of topaz include Namibia, Nigeria, Madagascar, Mexico, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the United States, and historic Russian localities.
Topaz Stone Care and Cleaning
Topaz ranks an 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, but it possesses poor toughness, requiring careful handling to prevent chipping or cracking. When cleaning this stone, avoid steam cleaning or ultrasonic cleaners, as warm, soapy water is the best option. High heat or sudden temperature changes can lead to internal breaks in topaz. While the stone's color is generally stable to light, prolonged exposure to heat or sunlight may cause fading in some yellow-to-brown gems. Topaz may also be slightly affected by certain chemicals.
The coating on Mystic Topaz can endure normal wear, but abrasive cleaners or buffing wheels will remove it. To clean a topaz stone treated in this manner, only a mild soap solution should be used.
