BLUE TOPAZ | Guide @ RoyalGems.com

BLUE TOPAZ

TOPAZ deriving its name from the Sanskrit word meaning "fire", this November birthstone has long been believed to promote calm and faithfulness, to protect against enchantment and to cure insomnia. Traditionally found in colors ranging from pale yellow to golden orange and deep red of the finest yellow to golden orange and deep red of the finest TOPAZ, this gemstone occasionally occurs in shades of pink and lavender. Blue TOPAZ, occurring in colors from pale to deeply-saturated hues is the gem to celebrate one's fourth anniversary. Imperial TOPAZ is a suitable gift to commemorate the twenty-third wedding anniversary.

Topaz is named after an island in the Red Sea called Topazios. It has been worth, admired and used as a form of protection for thousands of years. Available in a variety of colors, it was reversed by the Ancient Egyptians who believed that its golden glow symbolized "RA" their Sun God. The Greeks believed that Topaz would give them strength. During the Middle Ages, Topaz was thought to act as a guardian angel and was said to make its wearer invisible in times of emergency.

Topaz comes from Brazil, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Russia, Burma, Pakistan, South Africa, Nigeria, Texas and in many other places in lesser amounts Russia, Brazil and Afghanistan produce the most superb topaz.

Topaz is valued for its wonderful shades of pale yellow to purple with pink and peach tinges. The sherry topaz, a golden brown stone with reddish hues is also quite valuable.

Topaz is heavy, hard, unalterable and abundant. Although durable, rating 8 on Mohr scale, topaz is very susceptible to cleavage and should be treated with care. Clean it with a soft, damp cloth, warm water and a soft bristle brush. Store it in a cloth pouch, never plastic. Do not expose it to sudden temperature changes, harsh chemicals or salt water. When wearing your topaz, remember that hair spray and perfume might dull it.