Topaz

Topaz is a silicate mineral with an orthorhombic crystal structure. It is typically translucent with a good clarity and found in large crystals that can be cut into statement gemstones. Topaz has a rating of 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it a very durable and wearable gemstone, particularly in cocktail rings. However, due to its crystal structure, Topaz can be brittle and easily cracks if pressure is applied along the cleavage lines.

Topaz has a broad colour spectrum: from colourless to grey, blue or greenish tints as well as yellowish-browns and rich orange-pinks. Deep red to orange stones are known as “Imperial Topaz”. Imperial Topaz are the rarest and most expensive variety of Topaz. Stones with a rich yellow to peachy colouring are known as “Precious Topaz”, and in the past such stones were confused with citrines for their similar colouring. Precious Topaz, are also a fairly rare and valued form of topaz in the jewellery trade.

The main source of Topaz is Brazil. Some Topaz are also found in Germany, Sweden, Italy, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Afghanistan. In the 19th century a deposit of pink Topaz was discovered in the Ural Mountains in Russia, and named “Imperial Topaz” in honour of the Tzar.

In the 18th century, Topaz saw a surge in popularity. This period was the golden age for topaz jewellery, thanks to the Portuguese who began mining newly discovered deposits in Brazil. European jewellers embraced the warm tones of Topaz, setting large flat cut or cushion cut stones in elaborate parures accented by diamonds which remain highly collectable today.

In recent years, the commonest coloured Topaz popular in jewellery is a deep blue colour. This colour is typically enhanced with a legal heat and radiation treatment which transforms colourless or pale blue stones into a rich ocean blue. It is a very affordable form of Topaz due to its high supply.