Topaz

Topaz is a crystallized mineral gemstone of the aluminum fluosilicate variety that is valued for it's hardness and vitreous luster.

The name topaz is thought to come from an island in the Red Sea called Zabargad, that was formerly known as Topazos.

The most popular color of topaz is the orange-yellowish gemstone and other colors include red, green, blue, a colorless stone, and violet (rose-pink).

The natural colors of topaz are caused by traces of chromium and iron and the blues and reds can be enhanced by heat treatments.

As the gemstone for the month of November, topaz symbolizes fidelity and love and affection.

When polished and set, topaz is a stunningly beautiful stone that is versatile for jewelry uses. It can be especially brilliant when adorned on gold and silver and other precious metals.

Although a relatively hard stone, jewelers must take care and precaution when cutting and polishing topaz because of it's delicate cleavage.

Large topaz gemstones are housed in museums around the world, including ones weighing more than a thousand carats each in the Smithsonian institute in Washington, D.C.

Today, Brazil is the main source of topaz but it is found in many areas around the globe, including the USSR, China, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Scotland, Great Britain, Nigeria, Mexico, and the United States.

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