November Birthstone - Topaz

If you’re a fan of all things sparkly and all things blue, then topaz could be your new favourite gemstone. Whilst topaz comes in a variety of colours, the most commonly sold is the blue topaz. Due to its strength (measuring 8 on the Mohs scale), there isn’t a jewellery setting this precious stone can’t handle. Whether it’s a topaz ring or an eye-catching topaz necklace, the stone is hardy and robust.

History of the Topaz Gemstone

Before it became the birthstone for November in the early 20th century, this ancient gemstone was linked to many special talents, including the ability to enhance creativity and act as a gemstone lie-detector test. The ancient Greeks even believed topaz could render the wearer completely invisible and uncover the illusions cast by others –though the jury’s out on that one.

What Colour is Topaz?

The name topaz is thought to originate from the Sanskrit word for fire, which is perfect considering its most valuable colours are sunset shades of pinkish-orange to vibrant red-orange. Topaz gemstones with this rare spectrum of fiery colours are called Imperial Topaz, supposedly named after the Tsars of Russia. In fact, these hues were considered so special the Tsars reserved the exclusive rights to wear them in the 19th century. In its natural form, brown topaz is most commonly found, however, blue topaz jewellery is the most commonly sold and is popular due to its stunning, light-reflecting facets and the colour which matches the sky on a bright summer’s day. Blue topaz starts its life colourless and is given its gorgeous blue hue via irradiation and heat treatment.

What is Topaz and What Does it Represent?

Topaz is a silicate mineral of aluminium and fluorine. Topaz gemstones can be found all over the world, including in Brazil, Pakistan, Russia, Mexico, the USA, Sri Lanka and Madagascar. They’re the talisman for the astrological sign Sagittarius and a traditional gift for the fourth and twenty-third wedding anniversaries. Don’t forget, if a piece of topaz jewellery takes centre stage in your jewellery box, don’t risk using steam cleaners or ultrasonic cleaners. High heat or sudden changes in temperature can cause internal cracks to form inside the topaz.

Choosing the Perfect Topaz Jewellery

Some of the most spectacular faceted topaz gemstones have a vibrant sky-blue colour that looks beautiful in any setting. Whether that be topaz earrings or a topaz pendant set in a silver or gold necklace. The twinkling sky blue stone set amongst yellow gold or silver is striking and eye-catching. Although it has all the sparkle of a diamond, blue topaz jewellery is still unique. Clear topaz is also a great alternative to diamonds. With a lower price tag but similar facets, strength and sparkle, not many would be able to spot the difference.

When choosing the perfect piece for your bestie or a loved one, it helps to consider the jewellery they tend to wear. If they don’t often wear jewellery or you can’t remember whether they have their ears pierced, maybe you should opt for a topaz bracelet. A delicate bracelet is less likely to get in their way if they aren’t used to wearing jewellery. Topaz necklaces are another option. On a delicate gold or silver chain, a topaz pendant will complete any outfit and can be worn no matter what the occasion – the hardy stone being robust enough to handle daily wear. Picking for someone with blue eyes? Blue topaz earrings are the perfect choice to complement this eye colour.

We think the summery sky-blue shades of topaz are the perfect contrast to the wintery November weather. If you want to bring a burst of blue into your jewellery box, or treat your bestie, mum or sister, topaz jewellery is a perfect choice no matter the month of the year, or when they celebrate their birthday. If you’d like more information or need a little help picking out the perfect piece of topaz jewellery, book an appointment in-store where our friendly team will be happy to help.