subject: Topaz And Sterling Silver Jewelry Designs [print this page] Topaz has been a favorite of jewelry designers and fans of fashion jewelry for several centuries now. The primary reason for this preference for topaz is that its color is quite neutral, thereby making it quite complimentary to all skin tones and colors. In some cases in fact, the light color of the stone is thought to be quite suitable for young children because the combination of the stone color and the tender complexion of a childs skin are a perfect compliment to each other. In addition, modern chemical and optical treatments can modify the color and appearance of the stone to match any design or fashion taste. Perhaps the most striking example of this appearance modification is mystic topaz. A colorless or nearly colorless specimen of topaz is treated with a fine powder and then heated to a high temperature. The power adheres to the surface of the stone and significantly changes its optical properties. The modified stone exhibits a dazzling array of colors and is much more attractive than the original light colored specimen.
A secondary reason for the popularity of topaz is that the stone is hard. It can be cut quite easily and polished to a high glitter. For the end user, topaz is very hard, rating an eight on the Mohs scale of hardness. This translates to a high scratch resistance. Cleaning the stone is quite easy and domestic as well as commercial ultrasonic cleaners can be used to remove the dirt and grime that can accumulate from daily use. It is quite resistant to household chemicals. Only the harshest chemicals in the house may negatively impact the stone. It is also relatively inexpensive to purchase.
For the more technically minded readers, topaz can be represented by the formula (Al2SiO4(F,OH)2). To the less technically inclined, it is mix of aluminum, silicon dioxide, fluorine, and the hydroxyl ion. Most naturally occurring specimens are colorless. However, light colored specimens are sometimes found in shades of blue, yellow, and brown. The color of the stone is influenced by the presence of secondary minerals. Chromium in various forms can cause the stone to be pink, red or even lighter shades of purple. The optical properties of topaz are not fully understood even today. Gemologists and chemists believe that the appearance of the stone can be modified through heat and radiation treatments. While some level of prediction of the appearance of the modified stone is possible, the change in color is largely a matter of chance.
