The velvety golden gemstone known as sherry topaz owes its name to its resemblance to a light-filled glass of sherry wine. Its richer sister, sometimes called Imperial topaz, approaches the color of the blazing summer sunset.
Topaz survived a fog of confusion that kept its true identity under cover for centuries. The ancients lacked today's scientific sophistication, so they categorized gems according to appearance. Therefore all yellow stones were topaz.
Why "topaz"? It may be derived from a Sanskirt word meaning either "yellow" or "fire." Another explanation is that it comes from the Greek "Topazios," the name of an island in the Red Sea.
The island Topazios was known for its bright yellow gemstones, but these were difficult to find because the island was usually shrouded by fog. It is now believed that this island is actually Zebargad, and that the gems were peridot.
The ancients believed that topaz worn as an amulet could drive away sadness, strengthen the intellect and bestow courage. Mounted in gold and hung around the neck, it was believed to dispel enchantment. The powdered stone dissolved in wine was used as a cure for asthma, insomnia, burns and hemorrhages. It was claimed to calm angry tempers and prevent bad dreams.
It was the ancient Chaldeans who first established a relationship between the signs of the zodiac and precious gems. Topaz was assigned to Sagittarius, now recognized as spanning November 21 through December 20.
Topaz has long been revered as the November birthstone. However, the golden quartz known as citrine has been accepted as an alternate birthstone for that month. Because of this, jewelers sometimes call it "topaz quartz." Even though the Federal Trade Commission has denounced the use of this misnomer because of the confusion it creates, it is still occasionally heard in the jewelry industry.
Although the golden to reddish-brown colors of topaz are the most common, blue is gaining popularity. This topaz has a soft sky blue color which resembles aquamarine. Part of the reason for its increased popularity is the fact that pale stones can now be successfully heat-treated to produce a pleasing blue, so more is available.
Occasionally topaz is found in lovely light pink. This is considered the most valuable color. Sherry topaz is sometimes heated to achieve this pink color.
Much of the topaz we see today is mined and cut in Brazil. It is also found in far-off island of Sri Lanka (Ceylon) in the Indian Ocean. It comes from the mines of Afghanistan, South Africa and Russia. In North America it is found in Mexico and our own state of Utah.
Topaz began to be used extensively in Marco Polo's time (the 13th century). It experienced a resurgence of popularity in the 17th century during the reign of King Louis XIV. It was a featured gem in the parures (matching sets) of the 1820's.
Topaz rates an 8 out of 10 on the hardness scale used for gemstones. As one of the most durable gems, it can be worn in many different types of jewelry. However, although a hard gemstone, which means it resists scratching and retains its brilliant polish, topaz possesses what is known as easy cleavage, a property it shares with diamond. If topaz receives a strong blow against a hard object, it can crack. Therefore, it should not be worn during sports and strenuous work.
Topaz is set into rings, earrings, pins and pendants. It may be linked to a suite of topazes or other gems in a lacey bracelet or neck chain. It makes a smart tie tack or cuff link and can also be used in men's rings.
0
