Topaz is an eye-catching gemstone that comes in a range of colours and cuts. It is often used in jewellery due to its beauty and versatility. This gemstone has been popularised by its use as a birthstone, association with anniversaries and spiritual links in ancient civilisations. This durable and striking stone has been used in the decoration of jewellery and adornments for centuries. If you are interested in learning more about this gemstone, keep reading for our 10 interesting facts about topaz.
1. Topaz grows as a mineral crystal.
Topaz is a silicate that is made up of aluminium and fluoride. It is formed by fluorine-bearing vapours that are given off during the final stages of the crystallisation of igneous rocks. It grows as a mineral crystal in granite rocks and lava flows.
2. They were first found in Germany.
The first topaz was found in 1737 in Germany. Later, in 1740, a larger sample was found in Brazil. Initially there was a lot of confusion about what these gemstones actually were and due to their golden colour, they were often mistaken for peridot.
3. Topaz have been mistaken for diamonds.
Topaz was once mistaken for diamond. A 1680 carat topaz was mined in Brazil and named the ‘Braganze Diamond. This stone was set in the Portuguese crown and was believed to be one of the largest diamonds ever found. It was later realised that this large, glistening stone was actually a colourless topaz.
4. There is debate around where the name ‘topaz’ originates from.
There is much debate surrounding the origin of the name ‘topaz’. It is believed by some that the name comes from the name of the island Topazos in the red Sea. When golden stones were found there, they were initially believed to be topaz but were later discovered to be peridot. Others believe that the same comes for the Sanskrit word ‘tapas’, meaning fire, relating to the colour of the stones.
5. Topaz is mined all over the world.
This gemstone is found all over the world. It has been mined in countries including Brazil, Russia, Zimbabwe, Germany and the United States of America. There are large mines in Utah that invite people to visit to mine their own topaz.
6. Ancient civilisations held many beliefs about the power of topaz.
Ancient civilisations believed that topaz held many magical and healing properties. The Ancient Greeks thought that the gemstone would provide its wearer with increased strength. It was also believed that topaz could grant invisibility. Many people would wear the stone for its healing properties as it was thought to alleviate anxiety, muscle cramps, joint pains, diabetes and low immunity. Topaz is also thought to attract wealth and money.
7. The heaviest topaz weighs 600 pounds.
Topaz can grow to an incredibly large size. The Museum of Natural History in New York City houses the heaviest topaz. This stone weighs 600 pounds.
8. The El-Dorado Topaz is believed to be the largest faceted gemstone in the world.
The largest faceted topaz is called the El-Dorado Topaz and weighs 31,000 carats. It is believed to be the largest faceted gemstone in the world. It was cut into a flawless emerald shape and is an eye-catching yellow colour.
9. Topaz comes in a wide range of shades.
Topaz has been discovered to exist in a wide variety of shades, although its most common forms are brown and blue stones. The rarest colour of topaz is red. It is said that less that 1% of mined and marketable topaz is found in a shade of red.
10. Topaz is rated at an 8 on the Mohs scale.
This gemstone is one of the most durable. It is rated at an 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it an excellent stone for use in jewellery as it will be long lasting and robust.
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What do you think of our 10 interesting facts about topaz? Do you know any others? Let us know in the comments below!
