Brazil imperial topaz pendant with 925 silver loop

Legend has it that the name of this incredible stone comes from the island of Zabargad, located in the Red Sea and formerly called Topazos. On this famous island, a multitude of minerals were found, which were often mistakenly called topaz.

It wasn't until the 17th century that the name topaz was clearly assigned to this famous mineral. Another story concerning the etymology of the name topaz comes from the Sanskrit word "tupas," meaning fire. It was Anselmus Boetius de Boodt (1550–1632), a Flemish humanist, physician, and mineralogist, who named this hydrated aluminum fluorosilicate mineral topaz.

Thus, many topazes mentioned in earlier texts may, in fact, be citrines, peridots, or yellow sapphires. When Pliny the Elder (23-79 AD) mentions a green topaz, he may be referring to chrysolite.

In ancient Egypt, imperial topaz symbolized the sun, the god Ra, and power. The Greeks and Romans believed it increased their courage for battle. It was also reputed to cure ailments, improve fertility, and neutralize poisons.

In the Middle Ages, this stone was believed to attract gold and facilitate prospecting. This refers specifically to the yellow imperial topaz.

Among Native Americans, imperial topaz enhances artistic senses and amplifies acts of heroism. In China, it is hung in homes because it is believed to bring strength and good health. In Japan, it is said to resolve many fertility problems.

The Russian tsars took control of all topaz production from the Russian mines. Therefore, they decided to add "imperial topaz" to its name. Other European kings wore topaz in a variety of colors. This was the case for Přemysl Ottokar of Bohemia (1230-1278), King of Austria.

Today, this fabulous stone is used in jewelry. Indeed, it has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, a very high hardness prized by jewelers in the creation of their pieces. For comparison, the highest hardness is 10 on this same scale, and that is the hardness of diamond.

Topaz is a silicate mineral formed by magma. Its crystal system is orthorhombic, it has a vitreous luster, and can range from transparent to translucent. It is generally golden in color, however, its shades vary depending on its specific chemical composition, particularly when some of the aluminum is replaced by iron, cobalt, or chromium.

It exhibits strong pleochroism (the change in color of a crystal when it is oriented in the light). This varies depending on the color of the imperial topaz: it is very pronounced in yellow topaz, weak in blue, and strong in pink. In short, topaz has colors ranging from gold to violet, including green, blue, and pink. These color changes are due to the varying levels of phosphorus present.

The main deposits are located in Brazil, Russia and Zambia.

An energizing stone, imperial topaz brings warmth and joy to its wearer. It is often associated with enthusiasm, courage, and passion. It bestows the ability to bounce back from setbacks and overcome life's difficulties. In fact, it generates powerful and positive constructive forces.

She radiates impressive energy and vitality. Shy and anxious people regain assurance, self-confidence, and even charisma. They learn to have self-esteem. More serene, they can undertake projects, set goals, and do everything they can to achieve them.

Imperial topaz is an excellent stone for students and those in training, as it provides the motivation and energy needed to achieve their goals. It offers clarity and lucidity when making important decisions.

A stone of openness to others, it encourages shy people to reach out. It develops compassion and empathy. It allows its wearer to show genuine interest in those they speak with, to offer advice, and eventually becomes indispensable. Its wearer radiates joy and good humor, sharing their happiness with those around them.