Topaz is a very popular gemstone due to the variety of colors it is available in, its relative durability, and its affordability compared with stones such as ruby, emerald, or sapphire.
Topaz is a mineral that is colorless in its pure form. However, this gemstone often contains impurities that color it in a variety of tones.
Round blue topaz
You can find topaz in orange, yellow, pink, gray, brown, blue, and green colors.
Rated 8 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, topaz is a relatively hard mineral, but it can be scratched or even broken by metals and stones that are harder.
Quality of Topaz
Evaluating Topaz: The Importance of Color
Perhaps the most important characteristic of topaz is its color, which to a large extent determines the stone’s value.
Generally, the more intense the tone of a topaz gemstone, the more valuable it is.
Pink and blue varieties of topaz are rare to find, and such stones are quite expensive if their color is natural.
Usually, however, topaz colored blue or pink has been treated with heat or irradiation to achieve such a color.
Yellow is a more commonly seen hue in natural topaz stones, and this color is not as expensive.
When evaluating the color of topaz, don’t forget to look at the stone in different lighting conditions. Depending on whether topaz is exposed to artificial or natural light, the stone’s hue may look more or less saturated.
Gemstones in most jewelry stores are lit in a way that maximizes color, and that’s why you should also examine the stone you are about to buy in daylight.
Topaz and Clarity
In general, topaz gemstones with fewer internal flaws are more valuable than stones with more inclusions. To examine a gemstone’s clarity, look at the stone with the naked eye in a well-lit setting – the cleaner the gem looks, the better its clarity.
Keep in mind, however, that since different hues of topaz are caused by different kinds of impurities, some colors of this gemstone are naturally less clear than others.
For example, some varieties of pink topaz tend to look less clean due to the very impurities that cause the stone to be colored.
Evaluating the Cut of Topaz
Since hue is one of the primary characteristics on which topaz is evaluated, this gemstone is usually cut to maximize its color. That’s why the evaluation of this stone’s cut comes down to assessing how well it brings out the gem’s hue.
This is also what you should be looking at when comparing different topaz stones.
In addition, don’t forget to consider how shallow a topaz is cut if you are going to mount it in a setting. For example, stones that are cut too deep leave less of the stone visible when it is set.
So, if you are faced with the choice between two stones of similar weight and color, go for the one whose cut will ensure that more of the gem’s surface will be visible when mounted.
Treated Topaz
A lot of the topaz available today has been treated to improve its color. Very often, colorless varieties of this stone are heated to change their color to blue or another hue.
In addition to heat, irradiation is another method used for color enhancement. The reason color treatment is used so often is that it is rare to find natural topaz with a deep, saturated color, and such stones are too expensive for most people.
Always ask whether the topaz gemstone you are considering has been treated.
It is not easy to tell whether a stone’s color has been enhanced just by looking at it, but the price can give you some clue. Topaz whose color has been artificially enhanced tends to be much cheaper than a similar, naturally colored stone.
Color enhancements of topaz are usually permanent, but you should be careful not to expose a treated gemstone to high temperatures. Heat can sometimes affect the color of gemstones that have undergone enhancements. And some varieties of artificially colored yellow and pink topaz can partially lose their color if left under direct sunlight for a long time.
Topaz Imitations
Very often, varieties of quartz are sold as topaz imitations. When heated, quartz can change color, and this is how fake topaz stones in green, yellow, and other colors are produced.
It is not unlikely to see treated citrine or amethyst (which are both varieties of quartz) sold as topaz.
Sometimes, vendors sell topaz imitations under such names as Brazilian Topaz, Gold Topaz, Bohemian Topaz, and other similar brands.
Be wary of stones branded in such a way, and require a document proving that the gemstone is genuine topaz.
Evaluating White Topaz
What Is White Topaz?
White topaz is a colorless variety of topaz, a silicate mineral that exists in a lot of different colors.
White topaz oval-cut gemstone
In fact, in its purest form, topaz is actually transparent, and the hues of its colored varieties result from impurities present in the mineral.
White topaz is very cheap, especially compared with other stones such as emerald, ruby, or diamond.
White Topaz as a Diamond Substitute
Because of its color and low price, white topaz is often used as a diamond substitute.
However, stones such as cubic zirconia and moissanite are much better in this regard – their hardness and appearance are closer to those of real diamond.
Evaluating White Topaz
The appearance of white topaz depends on its main quality characteristics, which also determine its price.
Let’s take a look at these factors:
Color: White topaz is transparent, but it can contain natural impurities that can affect its color. If you are looking for a stone to wear as a diamond imitation, find a white topaz that is perfectly colorless.
Clarity: Like all other gemstones, white topaz can have natural internal flaws (inclusions) such as lines, spots, crystal formations, etc.
Stones that have few imperfections are more valuable. Look for white topaz gems that are as clean as possible to the naked eye
Cut: Depending on your taste, you can select a white topaz gemstone that is cut in a shape of your preference. White topaz stones used as diamond substitutes can often be cut round.
Whatever shape you choose, if the stone will be set in a piece of jewelry, make sure that the white topaz is not cut too deep. Otherwise, most of the stone’s surface will remain hidden in the setting when the gem is mounted.
Carat: The size you choose for your white topaz is up to you, but keep in mind that the imperfections in a bigger stone will be more noticeable.
Also, if you are going to use a white topaz stone as a fake diamond, the bigger the stone, the more obvious it will be that it is not the real thing since white topaz doesn’t have the brilliance and sparkle of diamond.
How to Clean and Care for Topaz
Although it is not among the softest gemstones, topaz can be broken if hit hard. This is why it should be mounted in a protective setting. For example, a bezel setting would be a good choice for a topaz gemstone.
Topaz should not be exposed to high temperature, as the stone might get damaged and break. Sudden temperature changes, from hot to cold or vice versa, are also to be avoided for the same reason.
Although the color of topaz does not fade easily, exposing the stone for an extended period to high heat or direct sunlight may alter the gem’s hue over time.
To keep this sparkling stone looking its best, remember the three Cs you should pay attention to: Color, Cleavage and Cleaning.
Topaz Color: How to Keep It Strong
Vivid color is the topaz’s claim to fame, but most stones do not come out of the earth in the many shades on display at the jeweler’s counter.
Pure topaz is in fact colorless and sometimes mistaken for diamond.
Gold ring with a blue topaz
Coloration occurs when mineral impurities are added or the stone undergoes irradiation.
London and Swiss blues are by far the most popular colors of topaz, but they are very seldom found in nature. These hues are achieved through heat treatment of the stone.
Why is all this important to know? Because exposing your topaz jewelry to extreme temperatures can alter its coloration.
Topaz, whether treated or not, naturally fades over time, so it is best stored in moderate temperatures and out of the light as light exposure also dulls color.
If possible, find out where your stone came from. Topaz mined from areas in Russia and other parts of Asia is notorious for fading quickly and requires extra protection.
Topaz and Cleavage: Preventing Your Stone from Chipping
Though topaz is quite a hard stone, its structure makes it susceptible to breakage due to sudden changes in temperature and hard contact.
Topaz has what is called perfect basal cleavage. This means that weaker planes in its crystal structure will crack if the stone is hit from the right direction.
When wearing topaz jewelry, rings and bracelets especially, take care not to knock it against anything. It is best not to wear these pieces on your dominant hand to avoid as much contact with the gem as possible.
The same concept applies to storage. Keep your topaz away from other stones as they are likely to scratch or be scratched.
Dark velvet jewelry pouches are ideal for protection as they keep light and dust out and prevent physical damage.
Cleaning Topaz: Do It the Right Way
Chemicals are topaz’s worst enemy. Even weak acids found in cosmetics and hair products can harm the jewel’s color, shine and surface.
Always put your topaz jewelry on last after you have styled your hair and applied your makeup, and take it off first before undressing or washing. Never apply lotion or use hand sanitizer while wearing topaz.
When it comes time to clean your topaz, do not use any special jewelry cleaners as they contain chemicals and acids often too harsh for this stone. Merely soak it in a solution of slightly warm water and mild dish soap for 10 to 15 minutes instead.
Rub any remaining dirt off with a soft cloth, then rinse it in warm water and pat the piece dry.
Most grime collects underneath the stone in the space where light is meant to shine through, so be sure to clean the underside of your jewelry as well as the front. If the area is too small to reach with a cloth, a soft toothbrush can be used as well.
Storing your topaz out of the light and away from other stones will keep it bright and glittering for years to come. A jewelry box is a good choice to store securely your topaz items and other pieces separately.
How to Clean a Topaz Ring
Rings with topaz gems can be cleaned with water and soap:
- First, add some soap to a bowl of warm (not hot) water.
- Put the ring in the bowl and let it soak for 20-30 minutes.
- Take the ring out and clean the gemstone by gently rubbing it with a soft cloth or by scrubbing it with a soft toothbrush.
- Clean the ring by scrubbing it gently with the toothbrush. Be especially thorough when cleaning the gemstone setting, as a lot of dirt accumulates in the crevices there. Bezel settings are especially tricky. If your setting has prongs, be careful not to bend them accidentally.
- Dip the topaz ring in clean water and then rinse the ring thoroughly to remove any remaining soap.
- Dry the ring and the gemstone(s) with a soft cloth, and leave the ring to air dry completely before storing it or wearing it again.
Important: Never clean a topaz ring in an ultrasonic cleaner! Also avoid steam cleaning! These cleaning methods may damage topaz.
Reminder: Some colored variations of topaz are actually white topaz covered with a coating. Such stones should be cleaned with care because hard rubbing or scrubbing could wear away the colored layer.
Note: If you would like to use commercial cleaner on the metal parts of your ring, first make sure that the cleaning liquid is not going to damage your topaz. In general, keep topaz away from harsh chemicals.
Storing a Topaz Ring
Do not store topaz together with other gemstones, as it could scratch softer gems or get scratched by harder stones.
Ideally, wrap your topaz ring in a soft cloth or put it in an individual bag.
Make sure your topaz ring is dry before putting it away.
Be Careful When Wearing a Topaz Ring
Do not wear your topaz ring while doing housework, especially when cleaning. Exposure to chemicals (e.g., chlorine) contained in many cleaning products may damage topaz.
Do not wear topaz in the shower, in the tub, or in swimming pools. Not only can chlorine and other chemicals in the water affect this gemstone’s color, but shampoo and other bath products can accumulate in your ring.
Put on your topaz ring after you’ve already applied makeup, hair products, and perfume, as they can accumulate on the surface of your gemstones and make them dirty faster.
Topaz Symbolism and Meaning
What Does Yellow Topaz Symbolize?
The name topaz comes from the ancient Sanskrit language and means ‘fire.’ Yellow topaz is well known for its golden color and its sparkling clarity. As the November birthstone and the jewel of choice for the 4th anniversary, it makes a wonderful gift.
Yellow topaz gemstone
The Symbolism of Color
The smoky brown and golden tones of yellow topaz are associated with the earth and harvest.
Browns and yellows represent the ancient planting seasons and the fertility of life. They evoke images of all things organic: the rich soil, harvest grains, and the sun that allows plants to grow.
This is why topaz gems are symbolic of the outdoors and our natural roots.
The colors of topaz are also associated with the stability and comfort of the home. In a very old fashion and rustic sense, the hearth was always the center of family life and hospitality.
The sparkle and sheen of these stones remind us of the cooking fires we all used to gather around to celebrate good fortune and welcome guests into our home.
Golden browns are the colors of comfort, approachability, and the unity of our home life.
A Sign of Strength and Protection Throughout History
In ancient Greek society, topaz was believed to increase one’s physical and mental strength. It was often used as a talisman to shield the wearer in cases of emergency.
Egyptians had similar beliefs about this fiery, golden stone and used it to make amulets of protection and security. They believed the topaz was the stone of Ra, the Sun God, and would be a blessing for his protection and favor.
In the Bible, topaz is mentioned as one of the twelve gems in the breastplate of the High Priests. These stones, and topaz among them, are sacred and associated with the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve holy angels who guard the way into Paradise.
A Symbol of Harmony and Balance
Many believe yellow topaz to be a jewel that represents empathy and serenity. This is related to the symbolism of the brown and gold colors relating to the family and the home.
The topaz can be a soothing stone and a promoter of harmony.
You may want to wear topaz jewelry when you want to encourage forgiveness and relieve tension. Some swear by the rule that wearing a topaz pendant when entertaining guests will help foster an atmosphere of harmony, warmth, and pleasantness.
This stone is a symbol of balance and is believed to promote emotional stability and hospitality.
What Is the Meaning and Symbolism of Blue Topaz?
Blue topaz gemstone
Blue topaz can generally be found in three different shades: pale sky blue, cool Swiss blue, and deep London blue.
The sparkling stones evoke images of the wind, sky, and water. Blue is the color of calm and quiet.
It can help us channel relaxing energies and fight off chaos and negative emotions.
Traditionally, the icy blue shades of topaz gemstones are associated with learning, understanding, creative inspiration and peaceful communication.
A Symbol of Calming and Peace
Blue topaz promotes harmony and relaxation and can be especially helpful in healing hurt feelings and calming frayed nerves.
In the past, topaz has been used to soothe fears and protect against nightmares to give a restful and serene night’s sleep.
Ancient civilizations believed the blue topaz to have cooling powers.
They used the stones to help relieve burns and cool boiling waters.
These powers extended to the emotional and spiritual world, associating topaz with preventing anger and instability, and cooling raging tempers.
Concentration and Communication
Blue topaz is an extremely important gem when it comes to mental prowess.
This jewel, with its comforting blue color, is said to help channel our thoughts to promote concentration and perspective.
In some Hindi beliefs including Vedic Astrology, blue topaz is significant in helping spiritualists focus and meditate on important matters.
Wearing topaz may also help in making one an effective communicator.
Delivering speeches, pitching an idea, or expressing your emotions are believed to be aided with this beautiful gemstone.
The Jewel of Love and Loyalty
Often associated with loyalty and love, this gem represents eternal romance and friendship.
Blue topaz symbolizes honesty, clarity of feelings, and deep emotional attachment.
Gifts of topaz jewelry and gems may signal a wish for a committed romantic relationship or a strong appreciation of loyal friendship.
Special Occasions and Significance
Blue topaz is the symbolic birthstone for December babies, which is fitting because of the sparkling, cool, clear color of the gem.
It is also the chosen stone for the 4th and 19th marriage anniversaries.
Because of its association with love and calming, blue topaz is perfect for giving gifts of jewelry including rings, earrings, and pendants.
