Topaz: The Affordable All Round Gemstone

When one thinks about top gemstones is the variety. In addition to the top gemstones in the market, there are a number of top gemstone options to choose from gemstones that differ in terms of colour, mineral character and certain distinguishing features.

In this post, we look at one of the interesting entries in what is known as the semi-precious range of gemstones in the market. What sets them apart, and why do they make an affordable but solid option for gemstone jewellery buyers?

What is a Topaz Gemstone?

Topaz gemstones are part of the silicate mineral family of gemstones, distinguished by the presence of the element fluorine. It actually contains a number of gemstone varieties, which include gemstone types that fall into other major gemstone categories like garnets. Topaz gemstones are among the hardest natural gemstones in the world. Scoring a respectable 8.0 on the Mohs scale for hardness, and has been a solid gemstone choice owing to its hues, which in addition to the famous blue topaz come in an array of rich colours.

Topaz gemstones are among the second tier of gemstones, that follow in the lead of sapphires, rubies, emeralds and of course diamonds. Topaz are valued for their rich variety of hues, and their value for a long time, and even today for many rests on the mystical value that is attached to it. However, when it comes to topaz jewellery, such as topaz rings, the core factors of the gemstone are its cut, clarity and carat. So when it comes to picking a top-quality topaz engagement ring, for example, it is important to get carried away by the colour, as these fundamentals remain.

In terms of hues, topaz comes in a number of colours, with a specific blue being the most popular type, topaz gemstones feature a number of interesting colours. From orange, pink, and yellow but also rarer hues like magenta.

History of Topaz Use

To understand the value that is associated with topaz gemstones it is a good start by looking at their historical character. The use of topaz gemstones goes back a long time. With records indicating their use in ancient Greece. In the classical era, topaz gemstones were associated with mental well-being and as a protective talisman. The belief in the mystical powers associated with topaz continued, as we move into the Medieval era: where the gemstones, particularly the orange-coloured varieties were a feature in religious circles, with their adoption in Christian institutions.

Recognised for their colours and attached mystical value, topaz was truly international in their adoption. With nations as far away as India topaz gemstones were used, once again in association with their rich hues and positive effects they were believed to produce on the wearer. Points which we will explore in the meaning and symbolism section.

Over the centuries topaz gemstones have made a mark in a number of countries. One of the more famous topaz gemstones is a topaz that was set in the Portuguese Crown Jewels, that at the time was confused with diamonds. Which is an indication of the natural glow and brilliance of topaz gemstones. Purely in terms of the diversity of natural hues, topaz gemstones are a solid option.

Distinct Features of Topaz Gems

Topaz whilst not being the top gemstone in the world come with an array of strengths. Notable here is its pleochroic character: which means the gemstone features a different hue depending on the angle of its view. Which is a nice feature to have for those looking for a gemstone type that stands out.

In addition, topaz comes in a variety of hues, and according to certain accounts, topaz gemstones can be found in virtually all colours in the rainbow. In fact, topaz gemstones can even be found in red, which can be seen as a great alternative to natural rubies, given the high durability of natural topaz gemstones. A question a lot of topaz gemstone buyers may have is the colour of the stone: how do topaz gemstones get their colour, and what contributes to their variety of different hues?

Topaz gemstones, like most gems, derive their colour from the presence of trace minerals. Such as chromium, which interacts with the atomic structure of the crystal and contributes to its distinct colour. The tiny breaks caused topaz’s crystal structure, combined with the presence of trace elements, such as iron affect the gemstone’s interactions with light.

If one is seeking a rare and top-quality topaz variant, it might be worth looking at the London blue topaz and to a lesser extent, the Swiss blue topaz gemstones. These are special variants in the topaz family of stones, that feature distinct hues: where the blue colour is among the rarer shades in nature, one that is difficult to match. These topaz variants command a higher price and are sought after for their distinct colour.

Topaz Countries of Origins

Topaz as part of the semi-precious range of gemstones is noted for its relatively greater abundance in contrast to the rarer variants. Topaz gemstones today are sourced from a number of countries around the world. With nations as far apart as Brazil, Mexico, Russia and the top gem-producing nations in Asia: Ceylon and Myanmar leading the way.

When it comes to picking a high-quality topaz which are fit gemstone jewellery or is sold as individual gemstones Brazil tends to lead the way. In addition, to being the top source of topaz gemstones, such as those sourced from the famous mines of Minas Gerais, Brazilian topaz are known for their rich orange and dark yellow hues, with some stones featuring that appear like amber and even gold.

Countries like Ceylon (Sri Lanka) which are known for their rich deposit of sapphires produce topaz stones that are lighter to the colourless, with shades of blue topaz stones mixed in. The other island nation of Madagascar, set in Africa is known to produce gems with more distinct hues, such as champagne topaz gemstones.

Topaz Meaning and Symbolism

One of the more central reasons why gemstone and gemstone jewellery buyers opt for topaz gemstones is for the meaning and significance that is attached to them. Topaz as noted is viewed as a gemstone with protective power. In popular use, topaz gemstones are associated with 23rd wedding anniversary, and it is a smart move to opt for topaz jewellery, as a gift option.

The most notable popular use of topaz stones is their position as the gemstone of the month for November. In the Hindu and Vedic mystical traditions, the topaz gemstones find an analogue with the throat chakra: its light but bright vivid blue (unlike the darker blue coloured chakra) that is connected with expression. The throat region is a place where the power to communicate effectively is believed to stem from, and the presence of a light blue gemstone is believed to enhance the powers of this chakra. Of course, this will be greatly affected by the beliefs of the wearer, but even if you don’t the blue topaz is sure to be a soothing presence.