Friday, November 1, 2013

Topaz - November Stone of the Month

A new month brings a new Stone of the Month. The Stone of the Month for November is Topaz. Topaz is translucent and ranges in color but is best known for its yellowish, orange or golden color. Precious topaz is the traditional birthstone of November. Topaz is the symbol of friendship, and the state of Utah's official gemstone.

The ancient Greeks believed that topaz gave them strength. In Europe during the Renaissance period (1300-1600) people thought that topaz could break magic spells and dispel anger. For centuries, many people in India have believed that topaz worn above the heart assures long life, beauty, and intelligence.

Topaz is also pleochroic, meaning that the gem can show different colors in different crystal directions. Colorless topaz is plentiful, and is often treated to give it a blue color. Many consumers know topaz as simply an inexpensive blue gem. They’re surprised to learn that its blue color is hardly ever natural: It’s almost always caused by treatment. They might also be surprised to know that topaz has so many more colors to offer gem lovers, including pinks and purples.

Here at Gems N' Loans we take our gems seriously and colored stones, including Topaz is no exception!