TOPAZ

Overview :          Topaz is a stone that can be found in a variety of colors, depending on the proportions of water and fluorine impurities (yellow, clear and blue being displayed here). The mineral is a silicate of aluminum. Topaz is a very hard and is well suited for all jewelry applications. Topaz is readily available in a variety of colors. The most popular colors are blue and white. The richest blue shade of blue, termed London Blue, is the most desired. White Topaz is frequently used as accent stones in jewelry settings.

Usage:            Topaz is a stone with great healing powers. It controls anger, balances diseases of emotional origin, calms stress and restores physical energies, fights kidney and bladder disorders and prevents colds and tuberculosis because of its ability to strengthen the breathing mechanics of the body. Gives creative power. Good stone for people with insomnia. It will bring light and warmth into your life and protect against external stresses.

Legend:             Because of its wide availability Topaz has been one of the most prevalent gemstones throughout history. The derivation of the name “topaz” came from the “Topazos,” a hard-to-find island in the Red Sea. Some believe it is from the Sanskrit word “topaz,” which means “fire.” Topaz is commonly regarded as the finest yellow stone, though it comes in many shades other than yellow. Its popularity grew in the 18th Century, when it was set with diamonds in many dramatic pieces of jewelry. In the 19th Century, in both France and England, topaz continued to be one of the most stylish gems. Its popularity persisted during the Victorian era, and was later used by Art Deco jewelers.

Ocurrence :           Africa, Asia, Mexico, Russia, South America, United States .Today, Mina Gerais, Brazil, and Sri Lanka are the major producer of precious topaz.