Topaz Jewelry

Natural Topaz Jewelry: The Pleochroic Spectrum of Earth's Gems

Topaz is a captivating gemstone with an exceptionally wide color range, including blue, green, yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, and colorless varieties. While naturally abundant in its colorless form, topaz is often treated to enhance its hue, particularly in shades of blue. Known for its pleochroic nature, topaz can show different colors in different crystal directions, adding to its brilliance and allure.

Among the most popular shades are honey yellow, fiery orange, cyclamen pink, and icy blue. Whether in warm or cool tones, topaz stands out as a lustrous and brilliant gemstone. Its diverse colors, including rare pink and purple varieties, make it a favorite among gem lovers.

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This selection of gems from Ouro Prêto, Brazil, and Russia's Ural Mountains, displays the golden-orange to pinkish-red color range of precious topaz. Photo: GIA

History & Cultural Significance

Historical Use

• The name "Topaz" is believed to originate from either the Greek word Topazios (an ancient name for an island in the Red Sea) or the Sanskrit word topas or tapaz, meaning "fire."
• The ancient Greeks believed topaz granted strength, while Europeans during the Renaissance thought it could break magic spells and dispel anger.
• In India, topaz worn above the heart is believed to ensure long life, beauty, and intelligence.
• The discovery of Imperial Topaz in 1768 was celebrated by the Portuguese royal court.
• The term "Imperial Topaz" was coined in 19th-century Russia when pink topaz from the Ural Mountains was reserved exclusively for the Russian royal family.

Mythology & Symbolism

• In Greek mythology, topaz was associated with Zeus and believed to enhance understanding of the gods.
• Egyptian mythology linked topaz to the sun god Ra, symbolizing divine power and protection.
• During the Middle Ages, topaz was thought to calm tempers, soothe the mind, and even cure insanity.

The Colors of Topaz

Topaz varieties are often identified by their hue, such as blue topaz or pink topaz, but some colors hold specific trade names:

• Imperial Topaz: Medium reddish-orange to orange-red; among the most valuable topaz varieties.
• Sherry Topaz: Yellowish-brown to orange, named after sherry wine and often referred to as "precious topaz."
• Blue Topaz Shades:
  • London Blue Topaz: Deep, dark blue; the highest value.
  • Blue Topaz: Blue with a shade between London Blue Topaz and Swiss Blue Topaz, faceted and heat treated in Vietnam.
  • Swiss Blue Topaz: Vivid medium blue, highly sought after.
  • Sky Blue Topaz: Light blue with a more delicate appearance.
• Pink Topaz: The rarest variety, symbolizing love, wealth, and prosperity.

Natural Pink Topaz

Natural White / Colorless Topaz

Properties & Meaning

• Clarity & Truth: Enhances communication and self-awareness.
• Strength & Intelligence: Strengthens memory and learning abilities.
• Emotional Balance: Helps manage anger and promotes tranquility.
• Spiritual Significance:
  • Golden topaz aligns with the solar plexus chakra, boosting personal power.
  • Blue topaz resonates with the throat chakra, aiding communication.
  • Clear topaz connects with the crown chakra, enhancing spiritual enlightenment.
• Meditation: Used to deepen spiritual awareness and clarify intentions.
• Astrology & Feng Shui: Blue Topaz is linked to the ♐ Sagittarius zodiac sign and the year of the Horse in the Eastern zodiac, resonating with the Wood (supportive) and Water (harmonious) elements in Feng Shui.

Birthstone & Anniversary Significance

• Precious Topaz: Birthstone for November; 23rd wedding anniversary gemstone.
• Blue Topaz: Birthstone for December; 4th wedding anniversary gemstone.

Gemstone Factors

• Mineral: Topaz
• Chemistry: Al₂(F,OH)₂SiO₄
• Color: Yellow, orange, brown, pink to red to purple red, blue, light green, and colorless
• Refractive index: 1.619 to 1.627
• Specific gravity: 3.53
• Mohs Hardness: 8

Mining Sources

Topaz is mined worldwide, with major sources including:

• Brazil: Produces large, clear crystals.
• Russia (Ural Mountains): Historically significant for blue and pink topaz.
• Pakistan: Notable for rare pink and reddish topaz.
• Sri Lanka: Home to a variety of topaz colors, including Imperial Topaz.
• United States: Maine and Utah have notable deposits.
• Other sources: Myanmar, Madagascar, Namibia, Nigeria, and Mexico.

Many blue topaz gemstones on the market undergo heat or irradiation treatment to enhance their color.

Natural Topaz Jewelry by AME Jewellery

At AME Jewellery, we craft exquisite natural topaz jewelry in 14K and 18K gold and sterling silver, ensuring elegance and quality. Each piece is certified by SJC Lab, guaranteeing authenticity and excellence.

Discover the timeless beauty of natural topaz jewelry at AME Jewellery today!