The lore, magic and romance of topaz goes back many thousands of years.
It holds the distinction of being the gemstone with the widest range of curative powers. The Greeks felt it gave them strength. In addition, it supposedly cooled tempers, restored sanity, cured asthma, relieved insomnia and even warded off sudden death. Topaz is said to make its wearer invisible in time of emergency. It proved the loyalty of associates by changing color in the presence of poison.
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PRECIOUS and IMPERIAL TOPAZ
The name topaz is derived from the Greek word meaning "to shine" and also implies "fire". Orange-red "Imperial" topaz and pink colors are rare and most valuable. Precious and Imperial Topaz is the more highly regarded of the November birthstones as well as the gemstone representing the 23rd year of marriage. Most people think of topaz as a transparent golden-yellow gemstone. However, this gemstone occurs colorless as well as orange-yellow, red, honey-brown (dark sherry), light green, blue and pink. |
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Blue Topaz
Certain types of topaz are irradiated and heated to produce several shades of blue. It is the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 4th year.
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CITRINE- The alternative November birthstone
 Citrine is often used as the alternative to topaz because it is available in many of the same colors. Unlike topaz, citrine is readily available and inexpensive, even in larger sizes. |
