Topaz

Topaz is an aluminium silicate mineral containing fluorine. It is hard (8 on the Mohs scale, the reference mineral for that level) and forms well-shaped, often very large, transparent crystals. Pure topaz is colourless, but traces of other elements give it a wide range of colours, including yellow, golden, orange, brown, pink, red, light blue and, rarely, green.

The most valuable natural colour is imperial topaz, a rich golden orange to pinkish orange, found mainly near Ouro Preto in Brazil. Natural pink and red topaz are also rare. Most blue topaz sold today is colourless topaz that has been irradiated and heated to produce shades known as "Sky blue", "Swiss blue" and "London blue"; this treatment is permanent and widely accepted. "Mystic topaz" is colourless topaz with a thin surface coating that produces a rainbow effect, and this coating can wear off.

The name probably comes from the Greek "Topazios", an island in the Red Sea now called Zabargad, though the yellow stone mined there was actually peridot. For centuries "topaz" was used for almost any yellow or golden gem, and stones such as citrine were often sold under the name. Some historical stones believed to be diamonds, such as the Braganza in the Portuguese crown jewels, may in fact be colourless topaz.

Topaz is found in Brazil, Pakistan, Russia (the Ural Mountains), Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Madagascar, Mexico, Namibia and the USA. Although it is hard, topaz has perfect cleavage and can split if struck sharply.

Topaz at a glance

Caring for topaz

Topaz is hard (8 on the Mohs scale) but has perfect cleavage, so it can chip or split if knocked. Clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, and avoid sudden temperature changes and high heat, which can alter the colour of some stones. Mystic (coated) topaz should only be wiped with a soft cloth. Keep imperial and brown topaz out of strong sunlight for long periods, as they may fade. Store separately from harder gems.

In folklore

The beliefs below are traditional folklore, included for interest. They are not scientifically proven, and nothing here is medical advice.

The ancient Greeks believed topaz could increase strength and make its wearer invisible in times of emergency. In medieval Europe it was said to break spells, calm anger and cure madness, and it was believed to change colour in the presence of poisoned food or drink. In Renaissance Europe it was thought to protect travellers and to strengthen the mind. Topaz is a birthstone for November, blue topaz is the gift for a 4th wedding anniversary and imperial topaz for a 23rd. It is associated with the zodiac signs Sagittarius and Scorpio.

Topaz is traditionally regarded as a stone of joy, generosity and abundance. Crystal healing lore holds that it brings warmth and optimism, boosts confidence and creativity, and helps the wearer achieve goals. Each colour is given its own meaning: golden and imperial topaz with the solar plexus chakra, and blue topaz with communication and the throat chakra.

Related stones

Imperial topaz, blue topaz (Sky, Swiss, London), mystic topaz and white topaz. Stones that can look similar include citrine, aquamarine, blue zircon, yellow sapphire, morganite, diamond and glass.

For the technically minded

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