Hardness: 8.00
Refractive Index: 1.62-1.63
Specific Gravity: 3.54
Birthstone: April (white), August (aqua teal), October (pink)
Astral Stone:
Anniversary Stone:
Origination: Brazil is the most important source for topaz. Others include Bolivia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, the former Russia, Australia, Mexico, Africa, & the United States.
Care & Cleaning: Clean with a soft polishing cloth, plain water rinse, mild solution of soap & water or commercial jewelry cleaner.
Fiction, Facts & Folklore:
The first topaz discovered in Brazil dates back to 1735.
The topaz mineral group can be found in just about every color you can imagine, although most are enhanced through heat, pressure and other forms of treatment.
The rarest form of topaz is the natural pink gem that originates in Brazil, Pakistan and the former Russia. Some lovely specimens have also been found in Colorado.
Consumers should note that light yellow topaz will turn pink when heated.
A topaz of over four pounds was presented to Pope Leo X to commemorate his silver anniversary as head of the Catholic church.
A teal green topaz of nearly 1,500 carats is on display at the Smithsonian Museum.
Ancient cultures crushed topaz into a powder and sprinkled it in their wine. They believed this concoction would cure asthma and insomnia.
When worn as an amulet, it protected the wearer from evil spirits.
Some early cultures believed a dream of topaz would keep one from harm.
Pink topaz is associated with the planet Mercury.
For additional information, see "blue topaz" and "imperial (golden) topaz."