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November
Birthstones: Topaz and Citrine
Topaz
Topaz derives its name from one of two sources-- it might
be derived from the Sanskrit word tapas meaning fire, or from
the Island of Topazos in the Red Sea. In ancient times, the
figure of a falcon carved on topaz was thought to help acquire
the goodwill of kings, princes and magnates.
Topaz
comes in a wide range of colors, from colorless (the most
common) through light blue to golden orange and even pale
red (the most highly prized color). Modern technology allows
us to make in the lab what occurs only rarely in nature. Blue
topaz is generally clear topaz that has been heat treated
or irradiated, while green and multicolored Topazes are coatings
applied to clear Topaz.
The Egyptians
believed that topaz was colored with the glow of the mighty
sun god Ra. They made topaz into amulets with the power to
protect the faithful from harm. The Romans associated topaz
with Jupiter, also is god of the sun.
It is
said that you should only wear Topaz if you wish to be clear
sighted. Legend has it that it enhances both clarity and eyesight!
Ancient Greeks said it was useful to increase one's strength
and could make a person invisible in times of emergency. Topaz
is also said to cure insomnia, asthma and to stop hemorrhaging.
The Braganza,
the Portuguese Crown, contains a giant specimen that is said
to be the most famous piece of Topaz. It was originally thought
to be a diamond.
Naturally
occurring blue Topaz is found in Texas and the Ural Mountains
of Russia. Colorless Topaz, used for enhancement into blue
Topaz, comes from mines in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria and
China.
Citrine
Citrine
is yellow quartz, with a Mohs scale hardness of 7. The name
is derived from the old French word for lemon, "citrin."
Quartz is the most abundant mineral comprising about 12% of
the Earth's crust. It is found in all three types of rocks:
igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary. Primarily mined in Brazil,
it is more common and thus much less expensive than the similar
appearing yellow topaz or yellow sapphire, which it is sometimes
sold as by unscrupulous dealers.
Mental
powers are thought to be stimulated by this sunny yellow stone.
It is thought to enhance creativity and intuition, and to
bolster self confidence. New age practitioners also say it
inspires warmth and prosperity, as well as assisting in the
the realization of personal goals. Healers say it should be
used in times of stress or when a decision is being made as
it helps to calm the mind and improves insight. Powerful stuff!
On a physical
level, Citrine is used as a cleanser. It is meant to cleanse
the body of toxins and help in the regeneration of tissues.
Many believe it is essential in maintaining the health of
the digestive, circulatory and urinary system. Other properties
ascribed to this beautiful stone include relief from the effects
of radiation and chemotherapy, and as an assistant in the
absorption of antioxidants.
(This
article written by Mike McGinnis and published originally
on indiasilver.com.
We encourage republication but stipulate the piece be copied
in its entirety with links and attribution.)
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