Topaz is a silicate mineral of aluminums and fluorine. Topaz crystallizes in the orthorhombic system and its crystals are mostly prismatic terminated by pyramidal and other faces. Topaz is found principally in gem pegmatites, where fluorine is abundant. This rich-volatile area stimulates the growth of large crystal. Storm weathering is of pegmatites release topaz into streams and rivers. Topaz concentrates in alluvial gravels.
The value of topaz is based primarily upon its color, brilliance and clarity. The most valued color is a rare, sherry colored stone, which is called Imperial Topaz. Sherry-colored and natural pink topazes are valued as very expensive. Light blue, colorless and pale yellow stones valued less expensive.
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BIRTHSTONE AND ANNIVERSARY
Topaz is the certainly the birthstone for people who were born in November.
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ORIGIN OF NAME
The name "topaz" is derived from the Greek Τοπάζιος (Τοpáziοs), the author of one of the first systematic treatises on minerals and gemstones dedicated two chapters on the topic in 1652. In the Middle Ages, the name topaz was used to refer to any yellow gemstone, but now the name is only properly applied to the silicate described above.
Many modern English translations of the Bible, including the King James Version mention Topaz in Exodus in reference to a stone in the Hoshen: "And thou shalt set in it settings of stones, even four rows of stones: the first row shall be a sardius, a topaz, and a carbuncle(Garnet): this shall be the first row."
However, since these translations as topaz all derive from the Septuagint translation, which as mentioned above referred to a yellow stone that was not topaz, but probably chrysolite, it should be borne in mind that topaz is not meant here. The masoretic text (the Hebrew on which most modern Protestant Bible translations of the Old Testament are based) has pitdah as the gem the stone is made from; Pitdah is derived from Sanskrit words (pit = yellow, dah = burn), meaning "yellow burn".

HISTORY
Ancient Egyptians and Romans both used topaz for jewelry making. Romans obtained their topaz from Sri Lanka. In the 17th century, buyer and importer, Jean Baptiste Tavernier mentions topaz in his notes of trips to the orient. Topaz was not very popular during the middle ages.

GEMSTONE POPULRITY IN VINTAGE PERIODS:
During the 18th century, it was used more frequently in fabulous diamond jewelry in Spain and France. During the 19th century, it was popular to use topaz with amethyst in earrings and necklaces in France and England. Topaz was a popular stone during the Victorian Jewelry Period and later became used during the Art Deco Jewelry era.

LEGENDS
During the middle ages, topaz was believed to provide mental toughness and prevent mental disorders, in particular - sudden death. During the 11th century, it was recommended as a cure for weak vision. Topaz has also been recommended as a cure for madness, increasing wisdom and a coolant for boiling water.

HARDNESS
Topaz has a hardness of 8, on the Mohr's Scale. Because of the perfect cleavage of topaz their toughness is considered poor and they may break easily. Stones may break or chip easily if dropped.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Strong heat or light may cause natural brownish stones to fade. Yellow non-irradiated stones from Brazil and pink or blue stones are generally stable. Avoid ultrasonic, steam cleaners or strong heat. Topaz should always be removed prior to washing one's hands, cleaning house or swimming. Sudden extreme temperature changes should be avoided to prevent cracking.

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TECHNICAL DATA
Crystal system: orthorhombic
Cleavage: perfect in one direction
Refractive Index 1.61 - 1.64
Double Refracting, biaxial positive
Specific Gravity: 3.50 - 3.57

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