Ten incredible facts about the birthstone for December Topaz!
- Topaz is believed to have been named after a small island in the Red Sea named ‘Topazos’ where golden stones were found. What’s interesting is that the gemstones discovered were not topaz, but peridot! There’s another theory surrounding the origin of this vibrant gemstone’s name. Many believe ‘topaz’ was derived from the Sanskrit word ‘tapas’ which means fire.
- Topaz grows as a crystal mineral in various granite rocks, and in lava flows.
- Topaz is commonly found in brown and blue. However, a lot of people don’t know that it is also available in a wide range of other colours including yellow, orange, red, pink, violet and green
- The most valuable and rarest gemstone colour belongs to red topaz. The colours of topaz red crystals are reddish-orange known as Imperial Topaz. Red topaz makes up less than 1% of all gem-quality topaz stones.
- In 1740, a 1680 carat gemstone named the ‘Braganza Diamond’ was mined in Brazil. This gemstone was set on the Portuguese crown and was believed to be the largest diamond during its time. Now the jewel is recognized as a colorless topaz and is one of the most popular topaz stones in the world!
- Today, topaz can be found in various areas including the Ural and Ilmen mountains of Russia, in Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Czech Republic, Germany, Norway, Pakistan, Italy, Sweden, Japan, Brazil, Mexico; Flinders Island, Australia; Nigeria and the United States.
- Topaz has a history of producing large crystals. Their sizes can reach up to 4 feet and can weigh hundreds of pounds. The Museum of Natural History in NYC is home to the heaviest topaz weighing around 600 pounds. The largest faceted gemstone in the world, called the ‘El-Dorado Topaz’ weighs an astonishing 31,000 carats, which is equivalent to 6.2 kg!
- The exquisite pink-coloured Topaz was first discovered in Russia during the 19th century. This highly precious gemstone was restricted for use only by the Czar, his family, and by those who were gifted with it.
- Ancient Greeks believed that wearing topaz could increase strength and prepare you for future hardships. They also thought this gem could grant the wearer the power of invisibility!
- Topaz is associated with loyalty, friendship, and faithfulness, making it an ideal gift for a wedding or anniversary.