Everything you need to know about Topaz
Topaz is the birthstone for November. It is a popular gemstone that comes in a wide range of sizes, cuts, and colours. Wearers of the captivating gemstone are supposed to experience happiness, generosity, abundance, and good health.
Did you know that the ancient Greeks even said that topaz could make the wearer render invisible? However, we are slightly skeptical of this myth!
History of Topaz
It is universally believed that the term topaz is derived from “Topazios,” an ancient Greek name for a small island in the Red Sea that is today known as “Zabargad”. Even though the island never produced topaz, it was a source of peridot, which was once mistaken for topaz before the advent of modern mineralogy. Many others also connect the origin of topaz to Sanskrit, where the word topaz means “fire.”
Topaz comes in a rainbow of colours
Topaz is often confused with other gems because it comes in such a variety of colours. From red and yellow, to pink and blue, it’s available in all the colours of the rainbow. Topaz’s wide range of colours is usually because of natural trace impurities or defects in the crystal structure. Whilst blue is the most popular colour of topaz, the most valuable colours tend to be golden orange/yellow or red/orange.
Where is Topaz from?
Topaz can be found throughout the world in areas including Russia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Norway, Pakistan, Italy, Sweden, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, Flinders Island, Australia, and the United States. In the US, topaz is the state gem of Texas and is also mined from the apt, Topaz Mountain in Utah.
Famous Topaz
One of its most famous gemstones is the Marbella Topaz which is the world’s biggest blue topaz. At 8,225 carats and expertly cut into an oval shape, it is breathtakingly pure and transparent. The Marbella Topaz can be admired at the Programa Royal’s Art Natura complex in Madrid. The blue colour is reminiscent of the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.
Durability of the stone
Topaz is a far more resilient gemstone than many others, ranking an 8 on the Mohs scale. Due to its great resilience, it is the perfect gem for everyday jewellery such as engagement rings. Topaz gems should nevertheless be handled with care. The stone is susceptible to breaking or damage if it is struck forcefully or subjected to extreme heat.
Check out some of our stunning topaz rings here. Please note that our online items only represent a small selection of our stock.
McGowans Topaz
Our experienced and friendly team will always help to guide you through the buying process of any gemstone and will ensure you find the best piece for your taste and budget. You can visit us in store in Glasgow or Aberdeen to discover our range of affordable and beautiful topaz jewellery. We have finance options available too.
We sell a range of stunning topaz jewellery. You can browse a few of our favourites online or discover our full selection of topaz and other gemstones in stores.
Our online items only represent a small selection of our stock. Please pop into any of our stores to see the full collection.
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