Legend & Lore

Even today, the origin of the name Topaz stirs confusion. Some references point to the Sanskrit word "Tapas", which means "Fire" while others, suggest it was named after Zebirget, an island in the Red Sea that the Greeks once called Tapazius.

Many ancient traditions and beliefs have created a brilliant history for Topaz. Akin to the ancient Egyptians, the Greeks and Romans also associated Topaz with their Sun God, Jupiter. They believed the gem increased their strength and could neutralize enchantments. 
 

In medieval courts, Kings, judges and other noble persons were often presented with an engraved Topaz to win favor and cultivate positive relationships. At the height of Imperial Russia’s power, rich orange-pink Topaz gems were brought from Brazil to decorate the jewelry of the Czarinas. Ever since, these colors have been known as Imperial Topaz and even today, remain one of the most sought after varieties. 
 

Topaz is believed by crystal healers to make an excellent companion for those on a journey of spiritual change. Topaz is believed to strengthen confidence, to help making correct decisions and to give courage in following through on choices, thereby turning dreams into reality.

Topaz, the birthstone for November is an inherently romantic gem, and features regularly in the titles of romance novels and honeymoon destinations. Its name indicates beauty, rarity, and wealth and imparts a sense of timelessness.
 

The Colors Of Topaz

The locations where Topaz is found is as diverse as it colors, with mining occurring in Australia, North and South America, Russia, Sri Lanka, Japan, Africa, Pakistan, Norway and China.

Blue Topaz is recognized as a 4th Wedding Anniversary gift and is the rarest naturally occurring color. Apart from the renowned Sky Blue Topaz, the more intense coloring of Swiss Blue and London Blue Topaz has seen these varieties increasingly coveted in recent years.
 

Imperial or Golden Topaz is the second most common variety. These gems often contain chromium and are heated to bring out their rosy-red pink hues. Imperial Topaz is believed by some to be a "Gemstone of Fire", burning with the energies of the Sun. Imperial Topaz is also an accepted gift for 23rd Wedding Anniversaries.

 

Most Topaz is found in its purest form, clear. This variety is sometimes referred to as Silver or White Topaz and is believed by crystal healers to be the gem of confidence, helping stimulate natural gifts.

Interestingly, Pink Topaz occurs naturally more often than the rare blues. It is believed to open the base chakra and balance the exhausting energies of passion and power.
 

A delightful color diversity combined with beauty, durability and surprising affordability, makes Topaz, "The Gem of the Sun", ideal for all occasions.

Join us next week when we discover...