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    Turquoise in history

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    Turquoise in history

    by Ashutosh Roy

    Started off its journey from Maghara Wadi mines of Sinai Peninsula in Egypt and Alimersai Mountain region of Persia (presently Iran). It came into Europe via Turkey at the time of the Crusades.

    Turquoise – A snippet of its past

    Are you planning of gifting the Zuni bracelet, Navajo conch belt or squash blossom necklace in your coming anniversary? Then its better to delve into the background of the key component of the above – the turquoise, the ancient, yet the most modern December birthstone.

    Turquoise, one of the most valuable non-transparent minerals used in the jewelry trade, started off its journey from Maghara Wadi mines of Sinai Peninsula in Egypt and Alimersai Mountain region of Persia (presently Iran). It came into Europe via Turkey at the time of the Crusades. Victorian and Art Nouveau jewelry had Turquoise as a major component. At present it is the most widely used stone all over the world. Archeological sites show that it was a very popular trade item. The proof lies in tracing Cerillos Turquoise with the Aztecs, Persian Turquoise with Europeans. It is said that the son of Abraham used to supply Turquoise from the mines of Nishapur of Persia to Europe, Asian Countries and United States for years.

    The name has come from the word Turquie, the French description “Pierre turquin”, which means dark blue stone. There is a slight misconception Turkey has never produced Turquoise. Turquoise used to be traded to Europe via Turkey.

    Glittering effect of the turquoise blue has enhanced the beautification of the ornaments for years. The main usage of Turquoise is an ornamental stone for inlays, carving and Jewelry. But this gemstone has been treated as a sacred stone since its inception.

    Approximately in 6000 BC, Turquoise was found in the bracelets of mummified Queen Zer. In around 3000 BC, there were traces of Turquoise based ornaments in tombs and burial grounds. Sumerians and Egyptians used to produce highly sophisticated gold ornaments, by inlaying Turquoise. There are clear evidences of Pharaohs and Aztec King wearing Turquoise. Some used to decorate their teeth with Turquoise. The history also speaks of the usage of turquoise in ornaments by Native Americans and by many Indian tribes in Mexico. Indians has been using Turquoise in beads since the pre-Columbian days. In around 1880, the famous Indian style silver jewelry with Turquoise gained popularity.

    In the ancient civilization of Persia, the people used to wear it around the neck or on the hand with the belief of protecting from unnatural death. The conviction of treating Turquoise as a holy stone was up to the extent, where the wearer used to seal it by pearl and other covers to hide it from the jealous eyes. Al Kazwini, the Persian philosopher wrote that the hand wearing a Turquoise could never become poor. So, don’t get surprised, if you find a Turquoise in the middle finger of a Chief Executive of a corporate house.

    Turquoise has been also treated as a holy stone in various parts of America. The ancient Aztecs in Peru used Turquoise in their ceremonies. The Indians residing in America used to believe that the sky blue colour of the stone has got a direct connection with the sky and saves the warriors and hunters. Turquoise used to be mounted upon the arrowhead for accuracy, one of the most ancient weapons for hunting. The Navaho used to believe that Turquoise is a piece of Sky, so casting a piece of turquoise in the sea will cause rainfall. According to the Apache, it combines the spirit of sea and sky to protect one from all natural calamities. The Zuni used Turquoise to protect them from demons. Aztec and Egyptian used to consider Turquoise as a symbol of prosperity. There are evidences where the pre-historic people like Anasazi and Hohokam used to mine Turquoise for future.

    Some ancient sites have revealed the usage of Turquoise in various stages of lapidary treatment. Turquoise was believed to use in other treatments in the past also like eye diseases, stomach disorders, injury and bleeding etc. There are many such instances in the history, where the Turquoise has been treated as a holy stone for bringing wealth and happiness by fighting against the dark days and the evil power. The myth of Turquoise started with the horse riders (to stop accidents) in the earlier days and still continuing to be the treated as the most powerful stone for the accident-prone professions like Flight staff, aviators. In the Astrological schools, Turquoise is described as the confidence earning and relationship building stone. Crystal Healers and New Age believers treat Turquoise as the master healing stone with special strengths for recovering from respiratory, skeletal system, immune diseases. In the mental healing part it works best for communication. So, if you are getting frustrated because the audience never holds patience, when you deliver lectures, you may try out Turquoise as well.

    Turquoise is supposed to be the gift of the nature. It is heard that the Egyptians used to send salve convoys deep into the Arabian Dessert to extract Turquoise. In the earlier days Turquoise used to be collected by the rock hounds. History has been able to trace the extensive use of Turquoise by Native Americans and many Indian tribes since 200 B.C. in the form of beads and pendants.

    As the popularity goes up, the price goes high. Now, you may even think Turquoise as an investment option like King Tut, whose treasures include a significant quantity of Turquoise. As success has many fathers, Joseph Harriss claims Turquoise to be an integral part of the new world culture of America. The fact is that the usage started with the Native Americans and Indian tribes of Mexico. When the Spanish reached the new world, since then Turquoise had been seen as a common ingredient of royal and ceremonial jewelry. At times, Turquoise used to be priced even more than gold. Aristotle, Pliny and others have also referred to the stone, Turquoise. In Tibet, Turquoise had been even used for currency for years.

    Pricing of Turquoise is one of the biggest and controversial factors. There are several varieties arising from several geographical locations. To make matters further worse, the synthetic Turquoise has been spread out in the market. The best quality Turquoise may price even at $2,200 per KG.

    Today the popularity has gone to such an extent that contemporary designers like Ray Tracery and Brothers, Alvin and Brian Yellow horse have started designing new bracelets with Turquoise based on this old tradition.

    Turquoise mines

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    Turquoise mines

    by Ashutosh Roy

    History finds the trace of Turquoise mine even in 6000 BC. Egyptians had traced the first one in Maghara Wadi mines in Sinia Peninsula. The Alimersai Mountain region of Persia (now Iran) had become the producer of Best quality Turquoise.

    Source of Turquoise – The Turquoise Mines

    Have you ever thought of unearthing the sources of Turquoise, the “fallen sky stone”? In one word It is said to be the “gift” of whims of the nature.

    First of all lets understand how Turquoise is formed. Turquoise is generally formed in arid climate. When meteoric or groundwater percolates through rocks that contain copper, Turquoise is formed. So the probability of finding Turquoise is more near the copper deposits.

    History finds the trace of Turquoise mine even in 6000 BC. Egyptians had traced the first one in Maghara Wadi mines in Sinia Peninsula. The Alimersai Mountain region of Persia (now Iran) had become the producer of Best quality Turquoise. The term “Persian Turquoise” has become synonymous of the finest quality and has been defined as the standard of quality for comparison of other turquoise. Persian Turquoise, one of the most ancient turquoises produced by a series of mines. Nishapur, 225 miles from southern end of Caspian Sea, is the main region of Turquoise. There were three basic categories of Persian Turquoise, namely Anqushtari, Barkhaneh and Arabi. The finest Turquoise is still available in Iran and Tibet.

    Turquoise has been produced in Tibet, China, Australia, Peru, Chile, Turkistan and Afghanistan. Large deposits are found in the arid climate like Mexico and other southwest United States.

    It is heard that the Egyptians used to send slave convoys deep into the Arabian Dessert to extract Turquoise. Native American Pueblos used to dig deep into stony grounds to extract the precious stone, turquoise. In the earlier days, turquoise used to be collected by the rock hounds.

    In late 1800 and early 1900 Turquoise mines were discovered in the western and southwestern part of USA. Some Crystals have been found in Virginia, Conejos area of Colorado, California and elsewhere.

    The Cerillos and Burro Mountains, just ten miles south of Santa Fe of New Mexico were the largest producers of Turquoise till 1920. Cerrillos, is one of the most ancient mine of Turquoise. The specialty of this mine is that the turquoise is formed at the base of volcano. About 75 varieties in color were found. Cerrillo turquoise is very hard in nature. Enchantment mine near Ruidoso in the Sacramento Mountains of southeastern New Mexico produces deep green color Turquoise. Hachita mine had contributed a significant amount of Turquoise till 1905. The High Lonesome mine of southern New Mexico produces green color Turquoise, which are hard in nature. Santa Rita, used to produce blue and green turquoise. Tyrone mine, near silver city, New Mexico produced unique medium blue turquoise, but it is closed today.

    Most of the Arizona mines produce blue turquoise due to the presence of Copper. Kingman mine in the Globe-Miami district of Arizona produces various blue color turquoises. Duval Pit, north of Kingman is said to be a turquoise-producing region. Morendi mines of Southeastern Arizona produces light blue Turquoise. Bisbee Blue mine, Arizona, is renowned for his hard in nature and high blue color Turquoise. Bisbee is one of the oldest mine. Castle Dome is another name. Birdseye mine in Arizona used to produce dark blue turquoise with light blue circles before closing down in 1980. Cave Creek mine is one of the newest Blue color turquoise producer in Arizona. Sleeping beauty, Globe, Arizona produces solid, light blue color turquoise and is perhaps the only mine, which has made Raw Turquoise available to the public. This is one of the largest mine in North America.

    Cripple Creek mines in Teller County, Colorado produce greenish Turquoise as a by-product. Manassa in south central Colorado produces green color turquoise. Leadville mines used to produce vibrant color turquoise. Villa Grove mine, Colorado has produced the finest turquoise in America. The eye soothing blue color with an excellent golden spider web has made it unique. This is no more operational.

    Stormy mountain mine, a closed one, had been producing hard, dark blue turquoise. Turquoise mountain mine, a closed one, produced distinctive, dark blue Turquoise with light blue circles. Kennecott Bingham Canyon Mine, near Salt lake in the Oquirrh Mountains of Utah contributes a significant amount of Turquoise.

    San Bernardino County is one of the oldest turquoise mines in California. Deposits are found in Imperial and Inyo Counties also. California mines mostly produces Turquoise in variety of Blue colors, but they are very hard in nature. Though most of the mines are close today, the only mine, working and producing turquoise in California is Apache Canyon mine.

    Nevada has started producing Turquoise since 1930s. The presence of Iron turns the color of the Turquoise to Green in case of the most of the Nevada Turquoise. Ajax mine, located in south central Nevada in the Royston area is a relatively new mine produces light blue turquoise. The Blue gem mine near the battle mountain, Nevada produced deep blue and deep green turquoise before close in 1934. Candelaria mine produces blue color Turquoise. Carico Lake Turquoise of Neveda produces spring green Turquoise. Fox mine of Nevada is one of the most ancient mines, which was rediscovered in 1910 has produced variety of turquoise forever. Lone mountain mines near Esmeralda County is another significant name. Nevada generally produces blue color Turquoise due to the due to abundance of Copper. Pilot Mountain mine of northern Nevada produces blue-green colors. Royston the turquoise district in Nevada has got 3 mines namely Bunker Hill, Oscar Wehrend, Royal Blue. Royston produces beautiful color turquoise. The No. 8 mine in Carlin, Nevada produces highly valuable turquoise. Orvil Jack mine in northern Nevada produces yellow-green color Turquoise. Paiute mine, in central Nevada produces Turquoise with different blue shades. Damele mine in the east central Nevada produces yellow-green turquoise with increased hardness. Dry Creek Mine of Northeast Nevada produces pale blue and cream white turquoise.

    Chinese mines started at 1700 BC. China has got four or five turquoise producing regions. Maashan turquoise mine in the northwest of Sanghai and Hubei province of China produce prized blue turquoise. The high mountains in North of Bhutan produce chunks of blue green turquoise nuggets. Mines in India produce green turquoise.

    Today, The worldwide Turquoise market is controlled mostly by China and Tibet, who are contributing nearly 80% of the total supply. The major portion of the rest 20% comes from sleeping beauty mountain, Globe, Arizona and Kingman mines in the northwestern Arizona, of USA.

    Turquoise Mines at a Glance

     

    Mine Name Colour of Turquoise Reasons
    Sleeping Beauty, ArizonaLight blueAdequacy of Copper
    Bisbee, ArizonaHigh Quality blueCopper Mines
    Kingman, ArizonaHigh blueAdequacy of Copper
    Morenci, ArizonaLight to dark blueAdequacy of Copper
    Birdseye, ArizonaLight to Dark BlueAdequacy of Copper
    Blue Gem, NevadaIntense Blue to Deep GreenAdequacy of Copper
    Candelaria, NevadaHigh BlueAdequacy of Copper
    Carico Lake, NevadaSpring greenAdequacy of Copper
    Damele, NevadaYellow-GreenAdequacy of Zinc
    Dry Creek, NevadaPale blue, Cream WhiteAdequacy of Aluminium
    Fox, NevadaVariety of BlueAdequacy of Copper
    Ajax, NevadaLight blue, Dark GreenAdequacy of Copper, iron
    Lone Mountain, NevadaClear BlueAdequacy of Copper
    Orvil Jack, NevadaYellow-greenAdequacy of Zinc
    Paiute, NevadaLight to Deep blueAdequacy of Copper
    Pilot Mountain, NevadaDeep Bluish GreenAdequacy of Copper
    Roystone, NevadaRoyal BlueAdequacy of Copper
    Cripple Creek, ColoradoGreenish, Variery of BlueGold Mines
    Manassa, ColoradoBluish Green to Dark GreenAdequacy of Copper
    Cerrillos, New MexicoVariety of ColoursVolcanic based
    Enchantment, New MexicoDeep GreenAdequacy of Iron Content
    Tyrone, New MexicoMedium BlueCopper Mine
    PersiaClear blue, the famous one and many other varieties alsoAdequacy of Copper
    IndiaGreenAdequacy of iron
    ChineseWide Variety from sky blue to spring greenAdequacy of Copper, iron
    Stormy MountainDark BlueDiamond Mine

    Properties of Turquoise

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    Properties of Turquoise

    by Ashutosh Roy

    The chemical name of Turquoise is Hydrated Copper Aluminum Phosphate. The chemical formula is CuAl6(PO)4(OH)8*5(H2O). According to the formula, it comprises of three primary ingredients Copper, Aluminum and Phosphorous. Turquoise has got occasional presence of Zinc, Iron and Chromium as impurities.

    Turquoise – The Insight

    Mother earth has stored marvelous treasures in her belly and Turquoise is one of the most precious stones that her sons have been digging out since 6000 BC. Aren’t you inquisitive to know all about it?

    This modern yet one of the most ancient gemstone is said to be the result of nature’s whims. Before we delve deeper into its properties and attributes, lets understand clearly that Turquoise is not a primary mineral. It’s rather a collection of several minerals from the earth’s crust, formed under special weathering effects. The entire process is controlled by the nature itself to produce the ever-growing popular stone – the turquoise. A simple example will make it clear. As soon as Phelp Dodge had changed his way of extracting Copper ore, nature refused to produce Turquoise, due to the change in the weathering effect, in the same Tyrone mine, which had been producing turquoise for quiet some time.

    The mother stone of Turquoise is called Matrix, which means Turquoise resides on the Matrix and is carefully cut as the method of extraction. The best colour dazzles when the colour of the matrix contrasts with the colour of the Turquoise. A thin and evenly spaced layer of Matrix, called Spider Web, eventually enhances the look and feel of Turquoise. As a secondary material, when meteoric or groundwater percolates through rocks that contain copper, Turquoise is formed. Copper may come from varied sources, which affect the quality and colour of the Turquoise. If Copper comes from Copper Sulphides, then it produces bluish shades and if Copper comes from carbonated malachite, the colour turns greenish. Now, if we look at its iron component, if it is from apalite, the colour becomes black, iron oxide produces golden-brown while rhyolite produces the yellow colour. If Turquoise is not cut carefully from the Matrix, impurities remain affecting its colour.

    The chemical name of Turquoise is Hydrated Copper Aluminum Phosphate. The chemical formula is CuAl6(PO)4(OH)8*5(H2O). According to the formula, it comprises of three primary ingredients Copper, Aluminum and Phosphorous. Turquoise has got occasional presence of Zinc, Iron and Chromium as impurities. The presence of these impurities results in deviation from the elegant Turquoise blue colour. According to physical chemistry it belongs to the Class Phosphate.

    As it belongs to the class phosphate, Turquoise is fragile and sensitive to solvents. The hardness of Turquoise ranges between 5 and 6, which is even lesser than a window glass. The hardness of a deeply mined turquoise is just above 2. That’s why Turquoise are always advised not to keep close to the other stones or other rough ornaments, which may result cracks in this auspicious stone. So, the rough and tough people should think twice!

    Even Perfumes and other cosmetics may be detrimental, because of its super sensitivity to solvents. If you wear a Turquoise, be careful of your skin oil also. The “skystone” should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Heat is to be strictly avoided. But then how to maintain it? Cleanse it with a little warm water and dry it with some soft material like woolen clothes.

    Various techniques have been evolved to increase its hardness and decrease its porosity. Light waxing and oiling enhances the colour and luster of Turquoise. This technique is widely used today to increase the durability of Turquoise. Some more technologies have come up today like “pressure technique” by water glass, epoxy and plastic to produce an artificial wetting effect to reduce the porosity.

    Now lets take a quick look at the different colours of turquoises. Turquoise had first been found in Copper mines in Persia, which produced Sky Blue colour and the colour has become a symbol of reference and named as “Turquoise Blue”. The effect of Copper results the original blue colour. The variety in blue colour is a result of geographical location and other natural factors. Most of the Turquoise is concentrated near the copper-aluminum, and finally lands up in the iron or zinc-aluminum end. This natural phenomenon turns most of the turquoises to various shades of blue and green or bluish green and greenish blue. Some Turquoises have been found in Gold mines and Diamond Mines also. The presence of Iron and Chromium leads to Green colour. For example, Indian mines produce green colour turquoise due to the adequacy of Iron. Again, excessive heat can dehydrate the Turquoise to turn its colour to Green. Zinc changes the colour to yellowish but more importantly increases its hardness. Some Nevada and Tibetan Turquoise contain zinc.

    Turquoise is opaque by its nature. The hardness of turquoise, measured by the Mohs scale of Physical Science, varies remarkably. The lower limit starts from 2 and the upper limit is 6. Hardness varies due to several natural factors like environment and its mother stone, matrix. The hardness also depends upon the processing or treating of Turquoise. Silicification process, which involves minute Quartz particles, increases the hardness to a large extent. Its softness makes it very difficult to use the gem directly by the Jewelers. Turquoises, which have not undergone the silification process, at the least, undergo stabilization treatment before being mounted on a necklace.

    Properties at a glance

    Associated Minerals Pyrite, limonite, quartz, chert, cuperite, manganese oxide, apatite, chalcopyrite, chalcedony, and clays
    Birefraction0.04
    Chemical FormulaCuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8*5(H2O),
    Chemical NameHydrated Copper Aluminum Phosphate
    ClassPhosphates
    CleavageNone
    ColoursMainly in shades of blue and Green
    Crystal SystemTriclinic Bar 1
    Crystal systemTriclinic
    Density2.6 to 2.8
    FractureConchodial
    LusterDull to Waxy
    Refractive Index1.61 to 1.65
    Specific Gravity2.60 to 2.80
    TransparencyOpaque

    The best stones are almost natural but they are fragile and prone to color fading. But the nice look and the royal colour attract everybody. These stones are cut, shaped and polished to mount on your third finger.

    As the popularity grows up, faking becomes an integral part. People have been faking for centuries. Fake turquoises are made up of ceramics, bone, colored minerals, celluloid, plastic etc. A hot pin will give out smell of resin from a synthetic turquoise. But, this is not the only kind; other faking methodologies may also deceive your eyes. So, you may prefer to visit Zach-Low Turquoise Museum, New Mexico, to test the Turquoise before investing your hard-earned dollars.

    You may not be a student of Physics or Chemistry to comprehend all the properties in details. So what? Go ahead! After all, the taste of pudding is in the eating. So, why to restrain yourself from a glittering third finger with an original Persian Blue Turquoise before the next board meeting, which may turn your luck (!) also.

    Different Turquoise treatment

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    Different Turquoise treatment

    by Ashutosh Roy

    The main purpose of any treatment is to increase the hardness and reduce the porosity, in one word to increase the stability or the durability. The colour treatments help to enhance the glittering effect and to protect the stone from changing its colour, mostly called fading, due to sunlight, heat and common natural phenomena.

    Treated Turquoise – ready to mount on your finger

    As Turquoise is more of a legend than of a simple gemstone, we start here with a myth, which the Zuni used to believe. The Blue Turquoise is male, which comes from the sky and the Green Turquoise is female and comes from the earth. Whether it’s a male or a female, in reality both the male and female turquoises are too soft and sensitive to be mounted to your rings or bracelet directly from the mines.

    Mostly the raw turquoises, which are extracted from the mines, are of very small sizes. In scientific jargon it is called cryptocrystalline, which means very tiny crystals to be viewed by a microscope only.

    The softness is turquoise is too high; the hardness ranges between 2 to 6 if measured in Mohs scale. Again it is said, the better the quality of the turquoise, the softer the stone is. They are even softer than the glasses of windows. It is very difficult to cut the original turquoise due the porosity. These fragile turquoises are almost unusable for jewelry. Here you must notice that normally the turquoises are inlaid or carved in the jewelries with coral, jasper, pearls and sometimes with gold. And most of the associated jewels have got better hardness according to Mohs scale. This leads to the probability of cracks/ scratches etc. in the precious stone, turquoise. This is also to be noted that the specific gravity of the processed or treated turquoises becomes lower than the natural or virgin one.

    So all turquoises, even including the high value turquoises also, are to be processed properly before mounting them in ornaments. Some common treatments are stabilization, waxing, coloring / dying. The main purpose of any treatment is to increase the hardness and reduce the porosity, in one word to increase the stability or the durability. The colour treatments help to enhance the glittering effect and to protect the stone from changing its colour, mostly called fading, due to sunlight, heat and common natural phenomena..

    Most of the turquoises undergo a process called Stabilization. Some common treatments in the stabilization process include wax, staining, colloidal silica deposition, and plastics impregnation.

    Light waxing and oiling as first treatment provides the wetting effect. This enhances the colour and luster of the material. In reality the wax treatment adds a layer of wax on the surface of the turquoise to prevent the turquoise from body oils and other chemicals and heat or sunlight from fading its colour. Waxing turquoise looks even finer. These are highly expensive and belong to gem grade.

    To reduce the porosity, Turquoises are poured into epoxies or acrylic resigns or other substances, so that these are infused into the pores of the turquoise to form a solid turquoise. Once the poors are filled up, the hardness is automatically increased. Additionally the colour looks fresh. Just waxed or hardened by simple resign treatment does not decrease the value of the turquoise.

    The Plastic impregnation is done by osmosis of hot plastics to the pores of the Turquoise to reduce porosity increasing the hardness and durability of the turquoise. Plastic impregnation or other simple hardness enhancer processes keep the value of the turquoise intact. It is also easy to identify the plastic stabilization, because a hot pin touching the Turquoise will result a deep mark in the stone and give off the smell of resign.

    Sometimes pressure techniques are followed, when turquoises with epoxy or resign and plastic (such as polystyrene) are processed under high pressure by water glasses. This produces a wetting effect and improves durability.

    There are several chemical treatments, which change or stabilize the colour of the turquoise to save you from fading your luck. Firstly turquoise is treated with chemical and then heated. This heating process filters the residual chemicals resulting a clean turquoise. This is called Zachary Process. The most significant part of this process is that the colour remains in tact over a longer-period of time without turning to a green colour. For buyers, according the ICA rules, the kind of coloring treatment must be indicated in the turquoise for sale.

    Now, let us discuss a common question regarding the dark rings in the turquoise. Don’t forget that the mother stone of Turquoise is Matrix. So, if the stones were not cut with utmost care, then, matrix remains bound to the turquoise, producing dark rings in the turquoises. So, the dark rings are nor due to any treatment or chemical process, rather it is a impurity, comes with the turquoise.

    Reconstituted turquoises mean chips mixed with resign before molded to proper shapes. Firstly pieces of turquoises are grinded to form Turquoise powder. Then the resign is mixed and finally heated. The molding turquoise is shaped according to the choice. This process results a natural hard and more stable materials. Turquoise formed by this artificial method is called reconstituted turquoise because they are basically manmade turquoises. As the proportion of resign is very high, a distinguish odor is smelt, reducing the value of the turquoise.

    There are some very low categories of turquoises, which are called chalk or chip. The softness makes them unusable. They are of very low pricing and may be used for murals only, that too after several chemical and hardening processes.

    The most desirable turquoises are the virgin turquoises, which have not undergone processing or treatment for enhancement of colour and hardness. They are simply shaped and polished after extracting from the mines. They are very costly as well as belong to the rare class.

    Its very difficult to identify the proper turquoise and its value. Several methodologies have come up to detect the originality including Infrared testing equipments. So, either you need to consult a testing laboratory or depend upon the long-term relationship or the reputation of the jewellery shop. As the investment is very high and it may turn your luck also, a proper identification procedure is to be ensured.

    Turquoise stands for strength and fortune. The belief is the enormous power may even stop flood. So you also need to work hard to achieve the stone to enhance your power or luck (!)

    Turquoise – peoples gem

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    Turquoise – peoples gem

    by Nandita Ray

    Aristotle spoke about it. Marco Polo wrote about it. Truly a people’s gem, it has adorned the human race for ages. Its universal appeal is intact even today.

    Queen Zara of Egypt wore it in 5000BC. She probably started the trend! King Tutankhamen wore it. The Pharaohs of Aztec wore it, the Native Indians used it, the high priests wore it to invoke the God Spirit. The Tibetans and the Chinese wore it. Even the Indians of the sub- continent adopted it. Aristotle spoke about it. Marco Polo wrote about it. Truly a people’s gem, it has adorned the human race for ages. Its universal appeal is intact even today. This is none other than the turquoise, so named after Turkey. It was introduced into Europe through the Turkish Trade route. Some say it was introduced into Europe during crusades (holy war). Its exact entry into Europe is, however not very clear.

    Physical Properties

    It is a semi precious stone, found in the deep recesses of the earth. ‘Pierre Torque’, the dark blue stone, as the French called it is ‘Robin Blue’ in color. This is the most natural color. However, it comes in various shades of blue, green, bluish green, brownish gray to even bright Chinese green. The best Turquoise comes from Persia, now Northern Iran.

    Chemical Properties

    This is a mineral called Phosphate. The color of the mineral is the result of underground water running over lumps of copper or aluminum phosphates, embedded in the parent rock. A chemical reaction takes place between the salts already dissolved in the water, with the copper or aluminum phosphates present in the rock. And this chemical reaction gives it the various shades of color. It takes more than a million years for the Turquoise to get the color. If the copper present is more, the mineral will take on blue color. If aluminum is more then the color becomes pale or white. Presence of iron in the water and its reaction with the phosphate will give it the bluish green tint. Sometimes the presence of zinc leads to yellow color.

    Sediments or impurities present in the water leave dark spots or thin vein like lines in the Turquoise. Some of the veins form patterns which look like a spider’s web. These black designs are also called matrix. The American and Mexican variety sports matrix. Many people insist on buying this type of Turquoise as a mark of authenticity. Turquoise from Iran is spotless. Some natural Turquoise may contain irregular white patches. Sand stone, Jasper, Limonite or pieces of rock are the impurities found in the stone.

    History

    First discovered in 5000-4000 BC, in the semi-arid deserts of Sinai, it was mined by the Egyptians. They used it extensively for various purposes. In 1900’s, huge deposits were found in the South Western part of America. Peru, Chile, Argentina, Australia, Tibet, China, Turkistan, Iran, and Mexico produce this gem. While in the USA, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado, produce this gem too. The mines of Iran used to supply a lot of Turquoise to Europe, Western Asia and America, before production ceased. Mines in America and Mexico are facing closure due to over mining. Today, Tibet and China supply three fourths of this gem in international market. The names of the various types of Turquoise are always based on the mines from where they are produced. Example-Sleeping Beauty, King man, Blue Gem etc.

    Types

    The real stone is getting rarer each day. Only three percent of the Turquoise sold in the international market is natural. In its natural form, it is a very expensive gem .Inexpensive variety is quite popular today. The most common one is Stabilized Turquoise. It is a soft and chalky stone. It is mostly covered with a coating of resin or plastic. This is done to protect it from damage and also to help keep the color intact. This is the best one after natural Turquoise. Treated ones are also soft. The color of the resin is dyed. Then there is the Reconstituted Turquoise. It is made up of low grade chips or powdered Turquoise. They are compressed and shaped. They are saturated with resin. Imitation Turquoise is dyed stone or even plastic. It is made to resemble the gem. It is shiny and oily. If Turquoise is dipped in color, it should be mentioned.

    Turquoise is never facetted. That is, it doesn’t have the plane surface of a cut gem like the diamond or ruby. This is because it is soft.

    Popularity

    Turquoise is very popular because it has many sterling qualities. The Egyptians considered it a Godly stone, having Divine powers. They not only used it as jewelry but also wore it as charms and amulets to keep evil away. The high priests wore it stitched on their upper vests when calling on the Higher Spirits. From kings to the commoner wore Turquoise. A Persian philosopher put it aptly ‘the wearer shall never be poor’. Meaning health, wealth and happiness will come to the wearer. It was also used by the Native Americans, who also believed that it had spiritual powers. They thought that there existed a deep connection between the spirits residing in the blue sky and the blue stone found in the earth. They surrounded themselves with this stone. It was not only made into jewelry but also on all essential articles. To make hunting easy, they used it on arrow heads. Totem Poles, daggers, bridle of horse and burial ground, all had pieces of Turquoise. Some believed that a piece of this stone dropped in the river, would bring rain. The Aztecs decorated their mask with chips of Turquoise. Even today, people wear this stone for their personal safety. Especially people working as pilots or astronauts.

    Benefits

    Turquoise is considered to have beneficial effects on the wearer. It is supposed to carry the female i.e. the moon’s power. Therefore people suffering from low spirits or depression, benefit from this stone. It soothes and calms the nerves and rejuvenates the spirit. It is supposed to relief the body from aches, pains and muscle soreness. It regulates metabolism and rejuvenates the pancreas. It protects against accidents and violence. People seeking spiritual growth are advised to wear this stone.

    Jewelry

    Set in silver, it looks stunning. This is because the blue of the stone contrasts with the white of the silver. It can also be set in gold. In fact, in India, where the stone is called ‘Phiroza’, the original Persian name, is set in gold when making Navratan or Kundan sets. It can be used in necklace, bangles, rings, earrings and bracelets. It can also be made into belts, hair bands, pins, watch bands, buttons and brooches.

    Upkeep

    It is a soft stone. It is also porous. It can get bruised easily. Over exposure to intense heat or light can change its color. Strong detergents and oil can also erode it. It can easily absorb oil and should be kept away from hand creams and lotions. Strong soaps and acids used at home, can damage it. It can get chipped easily. Therefore it should not be kept with other pieces of jewelry. It can be cleaned with warm water and polished with a soft cloth.

    This is the Birthstone for people born in December. It is considered lucky for people born on 1,3,4,6 and 8.

    Turquoise Jewellery

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    Turquoise Jewelry

    by Nasrina Parvin Khan

    In many cultures, turquoise jewelry is much more than a beauty wears. They believed turquoise changed its color with the wearer’s health and the magical power of this gem will protect them from diseases and unwanted forces.

    TURQUOISE: A GEM

    Turquoise is a precious opaque gem, which used as ornamental stone for thousand of years. It is a rare gemstone and softer than other gems such as rubies, sapphires etc. This opaque gem has become very popular in jewelry in current age.

    Turquoise Jewellery
    image courtesy: http://chacodog.com/

    There are two opinions, how the name ‘turquoise’ came. First one is that the name “turquoise” came from French word “Turquie” (French for Turkey). There was a misconception that the gem was originated from Turkey. Thus the name ‘turquoise’ was given to it. Another opinion is that the name came from French “pierre turquin” which means dark blue stone.

    The gem turquoise does not occur in Turkey, but was traded at Turkish Bazaar by the ancient Venetians who introduced it to Europe. It is supposed that the stone came from the Alimersai Mountain region in Persia, now is Iran or the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, two of the world’s oldest known turquoise mine.

    COMPONENTS OF TURQUOISE

    Turquoise is the only gemstone, which belongs to the phosphate group. It is a hydrated phosphate of Aluminium and copper. The copper gives it the blue hue. Chemical formula of the stone is CuAl6 (PO4) 4(OH) 3.5H2O.

    COLORS OF TURQUOISE

    The turquoise can be available in sky blue, robin’s egg blue, blue green, greenish, deep green, sometimes veining black or brownish markings of matrix just like spider web depending on the mining place.

    The most desirable as well as valuable is a sky blue to a clear “robin’s egg” blue (in reference to the eggs of the American Robin). Green hues influenced to decrease the value of the stone, though greener blue is preferred in Tibet.

    High quality turquoise has a permanent color whereas waxy turquoise keeps its color hardly.

    PERSIAN TURQUOISE

    Finest qualities of turquoise were found in Persia for thousands of years. Thus the term “Persian Turquoise” referred to the finest turquoise. But the situation changed. Modern miners discovered large quantities of high quality turquoise in the western and southwestern United States in the late 1880’s and early 1900’s, which are as fine as finest “Persian”. But nowadays the term “Persian Turquoise” used to signify all the finest turquoise in world.

    HISTORY & ORIGIN OF TURQUOISE JEWELRY

    Turquoise, is one of the oldest gemstone has been used for jewellery making since 5500 B.C. this pastel shades gems jewelry was worn by the rulers of Ancient Egypt, the Aztecs, Persia, Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley and also in Ancient China (since Sang Dynasty).

    Queen Zer and King Tut were among the Egyptian royalty whose mummies were discovered with turquoise jewellery. Turquoise jewelry has got an appreciation in ancient Aztecs culture also. Aztecs offer the turquoise jewelry to their Serpent God. Both southwestern U.S. Native Americans and many of the Indian tribes in Mexico, largely for jewelry making since about 200 B.C., have used turquoise but the style of combining silver with their turquoise jewelry is comparatively new. This style introduced most likely in 1880.The Native Americans have made solid turquoise beads, carvings and inlaid mosaics at this time.

    Despite being one of the oldest gems, turquoise did not obtain importance as an ornamental gem in the West till the 14th century. It was introduced to Europe through Turkey. Turquoise jewelry was unknown to Indian until Mogul period and unknown in Japan until the 18th century.

    In many cultures, turquoise jewelry is much more than a beauty wears. They believed turquoise changed its color with the wearer’s health and the magical power of this gem will protect them from diseases and unwanted forces.

    TURQUOISE JEWELLERY

    Turquoise jewelry has a classic appeal. Turquoise jewelry has found a place in the fashion scenario till the last century and still being popular. Turquoise jewelry has a distinct charm. The beautiful shade of blue, which said to steal from the sky, has created a fascination. The specialty of the turquoise jewelry is that not two pieces of turquoise have the same pattern.

    Traditionally, the Native American Indian Artists made Turquoise jewelry. They choose and handcrafted the jewelry around the gems. Today’s artists also adopted the craft to create contemporary turquoise jewelry. They combined the mystique, elegance and natural beauty of turquoise with sterling silver to make modern designs.

    Navajo, Zuni, Hopi and other Indian tribes make Native American Indian jewelry. The styles of the jewelry vary from tribe to tribe. Ancient Navajo Indian Jewelry includes handcrafted silver jewelry with hand stamped design, leaves, beads and flowers around the gem. Zuni Indian Jewelry involves cut stone and embedded silver jewelry. Whereas Hopi Indian Jewelry is a technique referred to as ” silver overlay”. Sometimes it is designed with symbols and geometric patterns.

    Southwestern jewelry style is a type of Native American Indian style. The Artisans are from New Mexico and Arizona. Usually this style deals with beaded turquoise.

    RANGE OF TURQUOISE JEWELRY

    There is a wide range of turquoise jewelry including southwestern and Native American styles. All of the styles are very popular in modern days. Today’s jewelry market is floated with various kinds of turquoise jewelry. Turquoise bracelets, turquoise earrings, turquoise necklaces, turquoise rings, ladies turquoise watches, gents turquoise watches, turquoise jewelry sets, Hopi & Zuni Kachinas, Southwestern turquoise & Sterling silver Indian jewelry and Zuni, Navajo & Hopi Indian western sterling silver jewelry including earrings, bracelets, necklaces, pins pendants, rings, belt buckles, fetish necklaces, key rings, money clips etc; beaded turquoise jewelry, southwestern Indian rug and so on are available in the today’s fashion market. Most of the turquoise jewelry is handmade original pieces of art.

    Usually, turquoise is sold according to its physical size rather than weight.

    POPULARITY OF TURQUOISE JEWELLERY

    Turquoise jewelry has found a popular place in today’s fashion elites. Everyone from celebrities to models to common people is wearing turquoise jewelry. T.V. actors, film stars, all are fascinated with turquoise jewelry in new age.

    TURQUOISE CARING TIPS

    Turquoise jewelry beautifies the wardrobe of many men and women. But the sensitive gem needs some extra care due to the softer nature than other gems.

    • Turquoise jewelry requires a careful handling .It should be stored in a separate box to avoid rubbing and scratching by harder gemstones.
    • Turquoise should be kept in an airtight box otherwise it will be destroy.
    • Keep turquoise away from chemicals as well as cosmetics such as perfumes, oils, cleaners etc. These will affect the color of turquoise.
    • Keep turquoise away from heat and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Because this may discolor or dehydrate turquoise.
    • Clean the turquoise jewelry with mild warm water; then dried with a soft cloth.

    Topaz Buying Guide

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    Topaz Buying Guide

    by shweta

    While selecting topaz, it is better to examine it under the different light sources. As mentioned earlier, topaz are available in variety of colors and these colors are examined correctly under the suitable light source. Colors like orange, pink and red are better judged under incandescent light. Where else blue topaz gives radiant colors in daylight or fluorescent light.

    Topaz is a precious stone suitable for the people born in the month of November. It is known as 4th anniversary gemstone. It carries a special place in all the jewelry items for women as well as men. Market is flooded with sellers selling topaz and it’s imitation. Topaz is a valuable precious gem and costs a lot of money. Therefore, this article is to help the buyer in purchasing the right quality topaz at the right price. It shall provide all the necessary information about topaz like it’s origin, physical characteristics, precautions and also the beliefs associated with it.

    Topaz originates in cavities of granite, rhyolite igneous rocks and sedimentary iron formation composed of hematite and silica minerals. It is also found in alluvial deposits and high temperature quartz veins. These rocks and deposits are found in the mines all over the world.

    Brazil, the land of gems and stones is the main source of Topaz. A place near Brazil’s minas state gives golden topaz for many years now. Usually, topaz occurs colourless or in brown colour. But, few parts of the world offers different coloured topaz. These colours are naturally occurred. Therefore, makes topaz valuable and precious.

    Texas in USA and the Ural Mountains in Russia produces natural blue topaz having pale to medium blue colour. Mexico is the source for sherry stones having orange to brown colour. Mines of Russia, Brazil and Sri Lanka gives brown, yellow, orange, sherry, red and pink topaz. Colourless topaz also known as silver topaz occurs in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and China. Pink topaz, is very rare and is procured from Katlang area of Pakistan and Russia.

    Colour of topaz is a crucial characteristic to be kept in mind while making the purchase. As learnt earlier, topaz is available in variety of colours. Sometimes these colours are naturally occurred else it is coloured by the colour centers. In this techno savvy world, through technology of irradiation and heat treatment colour centers creates different colours for topaz. For example, colourless topaz is often treated to become blue. Chrome obtained from Brazil is heated and turned into pink colour. Topaz contains chromium that is a impurity, which when heated at about 4500 F produces different shades of red, orange and sometimes violet.

    All these man made colours are durable and retained for the lifetime. However, it is extremely difficult to find whether the colour of the stone is natural or produced through heat treatment process. In order to determine the colour originality of the gemstone and hence it’s true value, the gemstone have to be tested in the specialized laboratory by the qualified people only.

    While selecting topaz, it is better to examine it under the different light sources. As mentioned earlier, topaz are available in variety of colours and these colours are examined correctly under the suitable light source. Colours like orange, pink and red are better judged under incandescent light. Where else blue topaz gives radiant colours in daylight or fluorescent light.

    This transparent and translucent gemstone contains vitreous luster. Thus, it usually possess the clarity. Sometimes, few of the topaz crystals contains certain inclusions that are in tear-shaped cavities. Shades of red coloured topaz consists less clarity than other colours.

    In addition to clarity, cut of the stone is important too. Topaz has perfect basal cleavage, therefore, it is comparatively easy to cut. Often it is cut as elongated stones and gets emerald cuts, elongated ovals, cushions and pears shapes. The pear shape with overly narrow shoulders is the shape that saves the weight of the gemstone.

    Apart from these characteristics buyers need to be careful from the imitations. Topaz is imitated by a varieties of quartz. Natural stones like citrine and amethyst are heated with yellow heat to produce yellow topaz. Mostly, people associate topaz with yellow colour and so end up buying these imitated yellow stones paying the price of true topaz.

    Real topaz could be identified from it’s imitations on the basis of the physical characteristics ( given in the table below ). Topaz is a hard stone having high density and perfect basal cleavage. Sellers use fancy names like Gold topaz, Brazilian topaz, Bohemian topaz, Madeira topaz, Occidental topaz etc for their particular topaz just for adding some value to it. These names do not carry any significance and therefore, one should not get carried away by these names but always be conscious while buying topaz. And always ensure to pay the right price for the right topaz !!

    Price of topaz depends upon it’s colour, carat and stone size. In case the colour is natural and very rare then price shoots up the sky like natural pink topaz is very rare and very expensive. With the huge production of certain colour, the price might get dropped as well, as with blue and brown topaz. The most common color is yellow with a reddish tint, while the most valuable color is pink to reddish-orange. With the increase in carat and stone size the cost of topaz also increases. Like other precious gemstones, topaz should be protected from scratches and sharp blows.

    Large or rapid temperature changes must be avoided such as leaving it in a heater or in a hot car. Exposure to acids, heat or sunlight can alter or destroy the colour of topaz. Jewelry consisting of topaz must be removed while using the cleaning solutions/detergents at home. It might affect the colour of the stone. Inspite of having 8 Mohs hardness and being quite tough, topaz can break into two with just a one blow same as that of diamond. In such a situation, the perfect basal cleavage of topaz also does not help much. Thus, always protect topaz from direct/hard knocks. Cleaning the stone in home ultrasonic cleaner or steamer is not at all safe. The best way to clean topaz is warm soapy water. Today astrologers suggest people to wear topaz with the purpose to bring growth and prosperity. And also to cure few problems related to body and mind. This is not new.

    Infact, it has been practiced and followed for years together in almost all the countries under different names and systems. There are many beliefs associated with topaz around the world. Romans used to connect topaz with the God of sun known as Jupiter. It was believed that this gemstone has the blush of a peach or the amber gold of fine cognac while all the crystal clear browns and oranges among it. Thus, Romans used to wear topaz to enhance and improve the eyesight. According to Greeks, people wearing topaz attains the strength and power to fight against all the odds and also they can become invisible at times when it was needed.

    Topaz was considered to possess a unique quality unlike any other gemstone – it was believed that in the presence of poisoned food or drink the colour of topaz would change to some other colour automatically. It’s was worn by many to cure the fatal diseases like asthma and hemorrhages. Europeans believed topaz has magical powers that brings good luck. It gifts it’s master with faithfulness, protects from bad dreams, calmed passions and acts as medicine to cure asthma and insomnia. On the other hand, the Egyptians linked the golden glow of topaz with strong and powerful Sun- the God. All these associations in one form or the other made topaz very precious & valuable stone. Soon topaz became the part of the jewelry worn to protect against all the evils.

    Properties of Topaz

    CompositionTopaz is nesosilicate having the composition as Al2[(F,OH)2/SiO4.
    Hardness8 ( Mohs) . It is considered quite tough.
    CleavagePerfect basal cleavage ( sometimes has conchoidal and uneven fracture).
    Refractive Index1.609-1.643.
    Specific Gravity3.53  Â± 0.04.
    Dispersion0.014
    ColoursColourless, blue, orange, pink, purple, brown, yellow, red, violet and light green.
    Crystal SystemOrthorhombic crystal system.
    PleochroismStrong to definite.
    FluorescenceWeak
    PrecautionsProtect from direct knocks, scratches and sharp blows. Avoid large temperature changes. Cleaning in home ultrasonic cleaner & steamer is not safe. Best way to clean topaz is wash with warm soapy water.
    SourceFound in Africa, Australia, Brazil, China, Japan, Mexico, Myanmar, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Russia, and USA (Colorado, Maine, Texas and Utah).

    Topaz – How to Identify

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    Topaz – How to Identify

    by Ardamun

    Citrine is mostly, and erroneously, called topaz, though both are two distinct species. Citrine is quartz, and is much lighter than topaz, which is Hydroxyl Fluorosilicate of Aluminum.

    How To Identify Different Topaz?

    Topaz is the hardest silicate mineral and one of the hardest minerals in nature, and a very popular gemstone for jewelry. In the ancient past, topaz was always associated with the yellow color, and all yellow and golden-hued gems were called topaz. Fine topaz normally occurs as a colorless crystal, though other colors, such as pink, blue, green, ‘sherry’, brown, etc are known to occur as well. You will find a variety of yellow gems wrongly being sold as topaz, such as:

    • Smoky topaz – which is actually smoky quartz
    • Citrine topaz – which is citrine
    • Madeira topaz – a citrine quartz
    • Bohemian topaz – which is also citrine
    • Occidental topaz – is also citrine
    • Oriental topaz – which is yellow corundum

    Topaz
    image courtesy: theimage.com

    Citrine is mostly, and erroneously, called topaz, though both are two distinct species. Citrine is quartz, and is much lighter than topaz, which is Hydroxyl Fluorosilicate of Aluminum. Quartz has a Specific Gravity of 2.65 and the Refractive Index of 1.540 to 1.550, whereas topaz has a Specific Gravity of 3,54 and a higher Refractive Index of 1.620 to 1.630.

    True topaz is correctly labeled and some are preceded by two words – Precious or Imperial. Natural color topaz is known as precious topaz and imperial topaz, whereas the Imperial Topaz was the topaz with pink tones which were discovered in the 19th century Russia. Imperial topaz is now mined at the Imperial Topaz Mines in Minas Gerais, Brazil.

    Topaz is an aluminum fluorite silicate – Al2F2SiO4 – and is found in cavities in granite and rhyolite lava rocks, pegmatites, high temperature quartz veins, and as worn pebbles in alluvial deposits.

    The Origin and Colors of Topaz

    The name topaz is thought to come from the Sanskrit word – tapas – which means fire. In 1 A.D. it was thought that the name was derived from the Greek word topazos or topazion – meaning to seek – and which was the name of an island – Topazos Island – in the Red Sea. Today, this island is known as ‘Zeberget’, or the ‘Island of St. John’.

    Clear or colorless topaz is quite common and has little value. Blue topaz, which is very rare in nature, can be made by irradiating clear topaz. Natural blue topaz is very light in color and irradiation produces blue topazes of darker hues. Treated blue topaz is available from very light, to sky-blue, to almost an inky dark blue. These flawless gemstones are relatively less expensive. The pale or clear topaz that is enhanced to produce blue topaz is mined in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and China. Blue topaz is often confused with aquamarine.

    The mines in Utah and Mexico produce the reddish-brown topaz. Though not of high value, they are still more expensive than citrine. Pink topaz is quite rare and hence is highly valued and occasionally found in jewelry. It is found in Pakistan and Russia. Pink topaz is also created by irradiating the common yellow topaz.

    Another topaz that is rare is the green topaz, and is highly valued also. The most prized is the Imperial Topaz, which ranges from red-orange to pink-orange color. This topaz normally contains many flaws and is very heat sensitive. Presently, it is mined in small quantities in Brazil.

    The other colors of topaz are yellow, brown, orange, beige, and red.

    The Deceptive Names of Topaz

    Certain unscrupulous jewelers sell other gemstones, with deceptive names, as topaz. The names, such as gold topaz, Madeira topaz, Brazilian topaz, Bahia topaz, citrine topaz, Indian topaz, and smoky topaz are not the names of topaz. These are just names to deceive you into thinking they are topazes.Citrine is also sold as topaz under the names – Bohemian topaz, Madeira topaz, Colorado topaz, Quartz topaz Saxon topaz, Jeweler’s topaz, Scotch topaz, Palmyra topaz, Salamanca topaz, and Occidental topaz. Few more trade names are Hyacinth topaz, Nevada topaz, and Hawaiian golden yellow topaz.

    A variety of quartz are also enhanced and sold as topaz. They go under the name – Palmeira Topaz, Madeira Topaz, Gold(en) topaz, Rio Topaz, Hinjosa topaz, Smoky Topaz, Spanish topaz, Scottish topaz, Topaz quartz Orange topaz, and Topaz saffronite. Poor quality sapphire is also enhanced and sold as topaz. They go by the names – as Indian topaz, Palmeira topaz, Star topaz, King topaz, and Topaz cat’s eye.

    Enhancement of Colorless Topaz

    Topaz is found on most of the continents, with the colorless variety being the most common. Due to its availability in abundance, it has a very little value. The colorless topaz is enhanced either by radiation and/or by heating. The natural blue topaz is of a very pale blue color. Today, a mass production of a desirable and darker blue color is done through electron beam enhancement or radiation of colorless topaz. The most common blue topazes produced by radiation are:

    Sky Blue Topaz – which is a moderately strong light blue topaz resulting from treating colorless topaz with gamma rays from Cobalt 60 or electrons by electron accelerators. The treatment is then followed by heat treatment.

    London Blue Topaz – this slightly grayish medium dark to dark blue topaz results from treating colorless topaz with neutrons produced in nuclear reactors. This process is also followed by heat treatment.

    Swiss Blue Topaz – is a vivid medium, to medium dark blue topaz produced by combining neutron treatment with electron treatment, followed by heat treatment.

    After the electron beam treatment, the heat treatment is carried out at 200ºC for many hours. This achieves strong blue colors. After neutron irradiation, topaz needs a cool off time as it becomes radioactive.

    The common yellow topaz, when irradiated converts to pink topaz. Typically, yellow topaz ranges from wine to straw-colored, and heat-treated yellow topaz turns reddish-pink. Heating is one of the most common treatments for topaz. The process can cause the gemstone to change completely, or either lighten or darken. Normally the heat treatment is irreversible. Heat-treated topazes are widely available in blues and pinks.

    Topaz is not a very expensive gemstone, and with a variety of colors and sizes available can be an exquisite addition to your wardrobe.

    Topaz Mines

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    Topaz Mines

    by Ardamun

    The state of Minas Gerais in Brazil is famous as it produces 80% of Brazil’s gems and minerals. The most important of all is topaz, which is mined around Ouro Prêto in Minas Gerais. Most of the precious topaz and all of the pink topaz mined in Brazil is mined from an area less than 100 square miles around Ouro Prêto.

    Topaz Mines

    Topaz has been used for centuries in jewelry. Pure topaz is colorless, but the presence of various impurities impart it with various colors, such as yellow, brown, orange, beige, red and green. The color of topaz is relative to the proportion of water or fluorine in it. More the water content in the crystals, more yellow to brown the color; and more the fluorine content, more bluish or colorless the mineral. The most popular is its fiery orange yellow color.

    The origin of the name topaz is supposed to be the Sanskrit word for fire – tapas – possibly because of its fiery orange yellow color. According to another theory, it got it name from the Red Sea’s Island of Topazos, where the Romans found a stone, which they called ‘Topaz’, but which later was found to be Peridot.

    Exposure to heat or sunlight is known to cause it to change its color. Sunlight is known to bleach brown topaz, and yellow topaz turns to pink or purplish red on exposure to heat. Blue topaz is artificially created after being irradiated. Though it is assumed that all blue topaz is treated topaz, blue topaz has been found to occur naturally in Texas, and in the Ural Mountains in Russia. A brilliantly cut colorless topaz is often mistaken for a diamond. Topaz is known to occur in Minas Gerais, Brazil; Pakistan; San Diego, California; the Ural Mountains, Russia; Mexico; and the Thomas Range, Utah.

    Topaz Mines in Minas Gerais, Brazil

    The state of Minas Gerais in Brazil is famous as it produces 80% of Brazil’s gems and minerals. The most important of all is topaz, which is mined around Ouro Prêto in Minas Gerais. Most of the precious topaz and all of the pink topaz mined in Brazil is mined from an area less than 100 square miles around Ouro Prêto. The Antonio Pereira Mine is where the Imperial Topaz is mined. The Imperial Topaz is the red and pink topaz – so called because they were used in the jewelry of the 18th and 19th Century Russian Czarinas.

    The imperial topaz mines are largely open air mines, and are said to be the last imperial topaz mines in the world, after the closure of the last Russian mines. The production of topaz at Minas Gerais is very less, but their prices have gone up tremendously since the closure of the Russian mines.

    Topaz Mines in Pakistan

    Pakistan is rich in a variety of minerals, and in the case of topaz, produces various colors, such as violet and pink, golden and champagne. In addition to other minerals, topaz in Pakistan is mined in the:

    * Gilgit district – Gilgi , Hunza, and Shigar
    * Baltistan Skardu Road, Baltistan district – Shengus, Stak Nala, and Tormiq Nala
    * Shigar area near Skardu in Baltistan district – Childee, Kashmal, and Yuno
    * Katlang in Mardan district, among others.

    Pakistan does not produce the natural orange topaz, and the topaz coming out of the Gilgit area – which is generally golden and white – is treated to impart this color. The well-formed spectacular peachy pink and white topaz crystals are glassy clean.

    Topaz Mines in the Ural Mountains, Russia

    The Ural Mountains – from Karski Sea to the Pre-Caspian steppes – stretch out for more than two thousand kilometers! Since the 5th century AD, from the times of Herodotus, the Urals have been known to be a rich source of crystals and precious stones, but it gained renown in the 17th century when many rich deposits of minerals and precious stones, including topaz, was discovered.

    The topaz found in Russia is comparatively much smaller than most of the topaz from other sources. The popularity, though, is due to its natural deep blue color.

    The Blyumovskaya mine, which is also known as 50 Kop or 50 mine, is a rich source of topaz. So is the river Kamenka, located near Koshkar, a known deposit for topaz. Though not of a high quality, the Sanarka River is also a deposit for topaz.

    Topaz Mines in Mexico

    Mineral wealth of Mexico has played a big role in its recorded history. At one time, the most precious and expensive topaz in North America was mined from the famous topaz mine – the renowned Guererro Mine in Mexico. Small quantities of the extremely rare bright pinkish gold color topaz is known to have been mined here. This mine has been closed down for the last 50 years or so.

    Topaz is also found in the state of San Luis Potosí, in Mexico. It is found in the cavities in rhyolitic volcanic rocks. Topaz found here is very pale pink to colorless, or sherry brown. Deeply colored stones found here are known to fade in sunlight.

    The Sierra Gorda hills are rich in a number of minerals, including topaz. The mines in Querétaro are famous for the world-class opal, but topaz is also mined here.

    Topaz Mines in Myanmar (Burma)

    Myanmar is well known for producing nine different kinds of gems, and topaz is one of them. Extraordinary topaz specimens are found in Pantaw, in the Mogok valley of Mandalay, in Myanmar. Mogok has been blessed with a number of minerals, especially the world famous Rubies of Myanmar – formerly known as Burma. Topaz from the mines in Mogok has excellent crystal clarity, and high class gem quality.

    Fine specimens of topaz that can be cut into fine gemstones are found in the Sakangyi and Barnardmyo areas of Mogok. Large colorless topaz, natural blue, sherry, and pink specimens are mined in this region. The natural colored blue and brown topaz fade under sunlight.

    Topaz Mines in America

    Thomas Range, Utah – a paradise for mineralogists – is famous for its topaz, among other minerals. The Thomas Range topaz is popular for its sherry colored crystals. Crudely shaped white topaz is mined in Amelia, Virginia; clear topaz at Devils Head and Pikes Peak, Colorado; large and deeply etched blue crystals at Topsham, Maine; small topaz crystals – in small miarolitic cavities in granite – at Baldface Mountain, New Hampshire; and pale blue topaz crystals in Mason County, Texas.

    Types of Topaz

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    Types of Topaz

    by Ritika Changrani

    The Topaz is a beautiful gem symbolizing love and affection. It can be found in a variety of colors ranging from red, pink to brown, blue and even colorless. A true topaz is known as an “imperial topaz”. The topaz is available in every imaginable shape and size, making it a coveted gem for jewelry settings.

    The birthstone for those born in the month of November, the Topaz is the symbol of love and affection. A true Topaz is rare today. In fact, most people have never seen a topaz. What is available at most jewelry stores is just the quartz or citrine topaz, in other words, glass. In olden days, all yellow stones were called topaz. However, a topaz is available in a variety of brilliant hues and is extremely beautiful.

    The topaz is a very hard stone, nearly as hard as the diamond. It has a wide color range and is very expensive. A true topaz will always be labeled as an “imperial topaz”. Be wary of name like “Spanish topaz”, ” Palmeira topaz”, “Bahia topaz”, “Citrine topaz” etc. as they are all names given to mislead customers – they are not topaz at all.

    COLOR : The gem Topaz is commonly found to be either colorless or brown in color. The brown topaz may fade in color with time. The more popular varieties of topaz are rarer and occur in golden, pink, orange, purple and light to medium red. Most of the colors are as a result of combination of heat treatment and irradiation. The yellow and brown topaz appear so as a result of their color centers. If chromium, an impurity, is present, the gem will appear pink or red. Presence of chromium and color centers give rise to the orange topaz.

    THE BLUE TOPAZ : The blue topaz is commonly found in nature as a result of color centers. It is a fine yet cheaper substitute to aquamarine in jewelry pieces. The types of blue colors that are present in a topaz are :

    London Blue – It is the darkest blue. The lower quality crystals sometimes have a grey tone to it.
    Electric Blue – This is the best color being very blue and vibrant and not as dark as the London Blue.
    Sierra Blue – It is a medium blue, but not as deep or hot colored as the Electric Blue.
    Swiss Blue – This is quite similar to Sierra Blue but a little lighter.
    Sky Blue – It is a pale light blue in color.
    Light Blue – This is pale, and very slight bluish tint.

    CLARITY : A good quality topaz from any source will be reasonably clean. This is why eye – clean gems are possible and hence extremely desirable. The notable exceptions are red and pink topaz, which usually occur as small stones and thus, a higher degree of inclusions may be tolerated.

    CUT : The topaz is typically cut as elongated gems because of their roughly elongated prisms. The common cuts used with the topaz are emerald cuts, cushions, elongated ovals and pears. The pears are often cut with overly narrow shoulders to save on weight. The blue topaz is mass produced due to the high demand and thus is cut in virtually all imaginable shapes and sizes. The topaz is rarely cabochon cut.

    STONE SIZES : The stone topaz occurs in a variety of sizes and may even be enormous. Clean stones of 1000 cts. have known to be found. In fact, monster crystals have been cut to obtain faceted gems of tens of thousands of carats. The “imperial topaz” in orange, pink and red is rarer. Reds and pinks are typically found in 5 cts. or less. The orange topaz usually occurs in 20 cts. or less.

    LIGHTING : In order to examine a topaz, correct lighting is essential. The orange, red, and orangish – red varieties are best looked at under incandescent light. On the other hand, the blue topaz generally looks best when seen in natural daylight or under fluorescent light. It is recommended to minutely study a gem under a variety of light sources before making the final purchase, to avoid any future shocks.

    PRICES : The value of a topaz totally depends on its quality, like any other gem. To simplify things and to give you an idea, certain generalizations can be made. The most common and sought – after variety is the blue topaz. It is produced in large quantities in keeping with the demand. Because of its sheer availability the price of a blue topaz is usually $25 per carat for ring sizes, at a retail store. The larger sizes will obviously be slightly more expensive. The blue topaz occurs naturally, but owing to the mass production of treated blue topaz, the price of the natural blue has dropped down to that of its treated counterpart.

    The brown topaz is available for $8 per carat. The colorless topaz, from which the blue topaz is produced through heat treatment and irradiation, sells for less than $8 per carat and is usually available in sizes upto 100 carats.

    In stark contrast, the “imperial topaz” i.e. the rich orange or golden in color, sells for more than $1000 per carat for the larger sizes (more than 10 ct pieces). The most valuable and hence expensive is the rich pink or red topaz and can be bought for as high as $3500 per carat, at retail prices.

    Keep in mind the above guidelines and you will not go wrong while buying a topaz. Always take time and examine the gem before purchase – its your money after all. The topaz is an alluring yet comparatively inexpensive gem that can be used to great advantage in jewelry settings.