Read all about Topaz and different kinds of rocks and minerals here at the Stone Goddess.

Topaz is an aluminum fluorsilicate that forms in igneous rocks and high temperature veins. It is found as crystals with quartz, beryl, albite or orthoclase in pegmatites or in alluvial deposits as river worn pebbles. The colors of Topaz may be white, pink, blue, yellow, green or red. Most natural Topaz is colorless, while pink and a deep golden yellow are highly prized. Iron and chrome are the coloring agents. Today, heat-treating creates much blue, violet or red topaz.

Topaz may be easily confused with Aquamarine, Citrine, Diamond, and Kunzite, Phenakite and other stones. In the gem trade, a buyer must be wary of Citrine being sold as "Madeira Topaz". A warm golden to sherry brown "Imperial Topaz" is mined in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The main sources of the gem are Brazil, the Ural Mtns. and Sri Lanka. In the U.S., Topaz specimens have been found in Conway, N.H., Pikes Peak, Colo., Thomas Mtn., Utah, as well as other areas.

The name "Topaz" may be from the Greek "Topazes" for the island now known as Zebriget, or it may be from the Sanskrit "Tapas" which means fire. In the past, the name was used for most yellow gems. In London, a 13-lb. Topaz crystal was being used as a doorstop until it was identified and placed in the British Museum of Natural History. In 1964, Blue Topazes weighing 220 lbs. each were found in the Ukraine!

Metaphysical Properties: A birthstone for November, particularly Golden Topaz. Topaz is useful to develop empathy and compassion; it shows us how to love and to open communication from the heart. It may help one be adaptable and find humor, and gain spiritual insight after long difficult times. Topaz can stimulate the body's energy flow and strengthen the nerves.

A good meditation stone, for self-realization and to use with healing affirmations and to visualize the physical body as an acceptable part of the spiritual self.

Yellow Topaz boosts self-confidence and awareness, and ease nervous exhaustion. It may be worn to attract wealth or helpful friends. Blue Topaz helps with clear communications, and Pink Topaz is a heart stone. All are protective and direct energy to manifest one's abilities.

Chakras: Solar Plexus, Heart, and Throat.