Topaz, a fluorine aluminium silicate, is a transparent or translucent gemstone commonly used in fine jewellery. Topaz is most commonly found in a yellow shade, although it can also be clear and colourless, brown, orange, red, blue or green. In any colour, a topaz has various hues and shades. Thus, a yellow range of topaz gemstones can have stones that are pale yellow, honey yellow, yellow-brown, etc.
Topaz was known to man eons ago, across the world. Ancient Hebrew, Roman and Greek scriptures all make mention of topaz. The origin of the name topaz could be the Greek word ‘topazos’, meaning green gemstone, or the Sanskrit word ‘tapas’, meaning fire. In Roman mythology, topaz was dedicated to the God Jupiter. The Egyptians associated topaz with the sun god Ra. Historically, kings and emperors have often used topaz in their royal jewellery. The topaz used by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb was of 157.75 carats. Also, the huge and famous gemstone in the Portuguese Braganza crown is reputedly a topaz. Topaz was said to bestow medicinal and spiritual benefits on the user. In ancient times, topaz was said to cure epilepsy, insomnia and asthma. It was also used to dispel fear, sadness, anger, and was associated with happiness and beauty.
Today, topaz is found in places like the Ural Mountains, Brazil, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Sri Lanka, Czech Republic, Germany, Norway, Italy, Sweden, Japan, Mexico, Flinders Island and the United States. The yellow topaz is the birthstone for the month of November. It is also the state gemstone for the US State of Utah, while the blue topaz is the state gemstone for Texas.
The yellow topaz is often mistaken for the far less valuable gemstone citrine, whereas the blue topaz may be mistaken for aquamarine. A topaz has versatile uses in jewellery. It can be used in earrings, rings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, tiaras, bangles, chokers, cuff links, wrist watches, etc. Topaz may be used in gold, silver or platinum jewellery or can be used as the sole gemstone or combined with other colourful gemstones such as pink, white or yellow diamonds, blue sapphires, red rubies, green emeralds, etc.
Whether used as a jewellery accessory or handed down as a family heirloom, the topaz is a precious asset today. It deep, fiery aura signifies timeless beauty and elegance.
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