Topaz

November

Topaz is available in a rich rainbow of colors. This gemstone has been associated with religious teachings representing one of the gems in the breastplate of the high-priest of Israel and one of the foundation stones of Jerusalem. The name may have come from the ancient isle of "Topazios" in the Red Sea, or from the Sanskrit word meaning "fire".

Varieties, Qualities & Origins
The most valuable is called "Imperial" after the Russian Czars of the 1800s, and features a magnificent orange body color, with pinkish-red undertones. Topaz also comes in yellow, pink, purple, orange and the popular blue hues. It is mainly mined in Brazil, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Africa and China.

Gemstone Enhancements
Most topaz is commonly subjected to enhancement by heat and/or irradiation as a normal part of the fashioning process to improve its color. Generally, no special care is required.

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