Imperial Topaz

Physical Characteristics of Topaz
The gem topaz is taken from silicate minerals whose main components are aluminum and fluorine. In its natural state, topaz is colorless and transparent. Whatever color is visible in the stone is due to impurities in its composition. The common colors found in topaz are pale shades of yellow, grey, orange and blue. These colors may be combined in various ways in nature. Topaz is also usually treated to achieve a certain shade of color. Imperial topaz can be yellow, pink or orange-pink. In the natural state, pink is very rare.

Topaz has a hardness of 8 in Mohs' scale of mineral hardness. It is one step harder than quartz and one step softer than corundum. On the other hand, topaz is also extremely brittle as a result of its crystalline structure. Therefore craftsmen have to exercise great care when cutting and setting the stone.

Main source of imperial topaz
The chief source of natural imperial topaz in the world is Ouro Preto in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The term "imperial topaz" is said to have been invented in Russia during the 19th century to denote the species of pink stones that were reserved for the Russian royalty. The name "imperial topaz" was used by miners at Ouro Preto to distinguish their topaz from similarly colored quartz stones which abounded in the same area. Their topaz stones were typically orange to pinkish purple in hue. Also the use of the term was meant, as in Russia previously, to honor the Brazilian monarchy. Pink topaz is occasionally mined in Pakistan. Other countries which mine topaz are Russia, Myanmar, Australia, Sri Lanka, Tasmania and Mexico. Currently, there are Russian varieties of topaz that have a acquired a notoriety for getting discolored or fading under exposure to sunlight.

Natural and Artificial Colors
The golden pink range of color found in imperial topaz is found naturally in ore deposits. Alternatively, some gem manufacturers use a technique called "color deposition" to coat the underside of the transparent gem with a extra-thin film of color so that upon viewing the topaz from the right side, it will seem to be an imperial topaz. With a discerning eye you can detect the thin film on the reverse side. The surface will look like a film of rainbow spots. The stone is no longer completely transparent on its bottom side.

Natural or not, an imperial topaz possesses the same metaphysical powers ... if you believe in the mystic power of stones. However, the price should not be the same for both. If you are buying a loose stone, you need only examine the underside with a loupe (borrow one from the vendor) to find out if it has been treated. The situation is different with stones already in a setting, particularly if the metal at the base of the stone is solid. Then you will have to inquire from the vendor about the details of the stone. Alternatively, you should ask to examine the papers of the jewelry (since they will belong to you anyway if you do buy the item). In case the vendor can supply none, its best to refrain from buying.

Carefully selected resources
The importance of trusted and trustworthy resources for your imperial topaz is very important. On the internet you will find a number of sites dealing in topazes. You will also find shop-for-anything websites where imperial topaz jewelry will be catalogued. Usually these stores will feature a customer comment section where you may get some leads as to which gem manufacturing companies have the most reliable products and friendliest business practices.

The proper care of the imperial topaz
Like all other gem stones, extremes of temperature, especially in short succession, can crack the imperial topaz. Exposure to sunlight will make the color of your gem to fade after a considerable length of time. Harsh chemicals may affect the brilliance of the stone. As a rule, never use your jewelry if you are doing dirty and rough work. If you do need to clean the stone, immerse it in a warm and mild detergent solution. After a few minutes, apply a brush very softly to places where dirt can lodge in. After rinsing the jewelry, wipe it dry.

Because imperial topaz is a very hard stone, it is also very brittle. Take care not to knock the gem against anything that may cause it to crack because if it does, it usually goes all the way.

The mystical properties of imperial topaz
Because topaz is a crystal, it has vibrational properties as do other gem stones. The crystalline structure of imperial topaz is said to be such as to encourage self-confidence and inner enlightenment. In this connection, it allows the wearer to calm down frenzied people. It attracts the respect, love and admiration of others. It also protects from psychic evils and unexpected disasters. If worn with a tiger's eye, it bestows wealth.

Physically, it enhances the appetite and stimulates the life energy. That considered, it wouldn't be a bad idea at all to possess an imperial topaz.

Copyright (c) 2006, 2007,2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Technical Author Services Pty Ltd. ACN. 126 773 126. ABN 62 122 488 508. A private limited company incorporated in Victoria, Australia.