Topaz Beads Topaz beads are made from a gemstone that has been used for centuries in jewelry making, and for good reason. It is quite hard, glassy, translucent to transparent, and beautifully colored. It can be clear, yellow, orange, red, blue and green. It usually is colorless to pale blue or yellow. Heating Brazilian golden brown topaz can produce pink stones. These qualities make topaz gemstone beads an excellent element in everyone's jewelry supplies. Topaz is fluorecent under black light. Even though it is hard, it is also brittle, so care should be taken to avoid chipping. Smokey quartz is often sold under the name "smoky topaz." Citrine is sometimes sold under the name "Bahia or Maderia topaz." These are flagrant misrepresentations to increase the value of the quartz. Greek legend has it that topaz could make the wearer invisible and would change color in the presence of poisoned food or drink. It is the birthstone of November.
Significant sources include Brazil, Pakistan, United States, Russia, and Mexico. It is the state gemstone of Texas and Utah in the United States. common treatments: irradiation, heat treatment, occasionally dyed special care: avoid impact, abrasion, harsh chemicals, prolonged exposure to sunlight hardness: 8 |
