November Birthstone – TOPAZ
Along with Citrine, Topaz is the birthstone for November. It is also a suggested wedding gift for both 4th and 23rd anniversary. That said, its gorgeous brilliance and crystal clarity makes it a wonderful gift for all occasions.
It is unclear how the gem was first named. What we do know is that the small island in the Red Sea which is today known as Zabargad, was once named Topazios.
Topaz is fantastic gem to use in jewellery, not only for its stunning colours but also because of its durability, reaching 8 on the Mohs scale. It is a pleochroic gemstone, which means that different colours can be seen from different angles as you move the gem in the light.
Topaz occurs in many colors, tints and hues. They are found in many parts of the world. And form in crystals that can weigh several kilos. Topaz prices run from the down-right cheap, to very expensive. Rivaling some of the most expensive colored gemstones on the market. The main issues with topaz are to know that there are no synthetics, there are a lot of trade names out there that are as varied as the colors of topaz themselves, and that topaz prices will vary widely with the various varieties.
