Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. ~Albert Einstein
A hard silicate mineral formed in the cavities of igneous rocks, Topaz is a gemstone that typically presents itself as colorless, yellow, or brown.
While found throughout the world, Topaz in gem-quality form usually comes from Brazil or Sri Lanka. In the U.S., Topaz is the state gemstone of Utah.
Some say the word Topaz comes from topazos (“to seek”) after stones that were found in what is now Zabargad in the Red Sea. Others say the word is from the Sanskrit and means “fire.”
This highly transparent stone is believed to harness the power of the sun. Topaz is said to bring true love and fidelity, while bestowing courage, wisdom, and success in every endeavor.
Ancient Egyptians believed Topaz symbolized Ra, their sun god. Hindus thought it would protect their homes from fire. Greeks and Romans valued its ability to give strength and prevent injury.
According to the Bible, Topaz is the second stone in the breastplate of the Jewish High Priest. The Book of Revelation lists it as the 9th foundation in the wall of the New Jerusalem to come.
Until the 1970s, most jewelry stores sold Topaz in shades of yellow or brown. Today, colorless Topaz is heated, coated, or irradiated to appeal to buyers who prefer it in shades of blue.
Topaz is the traditional birthstone for November (some sources say December) and the wedding anniversary stone for four years.
Feng Shui practitioners teach that Topaz uses fire energy, Yang in nature, and should be placed in the south area of a home or room to enhance fame and reputation.
Regarded as the “crystal of potency,” Topaz occurs in a range of colors, from colorless to blue, yellow, orange, brown, and pink. The different colors of Topaz stimulate different Chakras (for example, blue activates the throat or third-eye, pink stimulates the heart, and brown enhances the root).
Topaz is believed to cleanse the aura and release tension. Blue Topaz, especially, is said to be most beneficial for alleviating fear of public speaking, inspiring creativity, and defeating writer’s block.
(Bring a U-Haul; I’ll take a ton!)
Topaz is an 8 on the 1-10 Mohs Scale of Hardness, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be broken. Clean your Topaz with a soft cloth after soaking it in warm, sudsy water, and keep it away from high heat or direct sunlight to prevent fading its color.
Note: The claims here aren’t meant to take the place of medical advice. They’re based on folklore and other sources, and likely “work” best if one’s belief is strong enough!