Topaz
Mohs Hardness - 8 (Found in - Brazil, Australia, USA, Africa, Sri Lanka, & Japan) History - The name Topaz is most likely derived from the Sanskrit word tapaz (fire). A common misconception is that all topaz is yellow because of the birthstone color for November, Imperial yellow Topaz. Pure topaz is colorless, but can occur in a wide range of color, including yellow, brown, pink, red, blue, and green. The pink color is usually the result of heat treatment of brown crystals. Recent techniques in irradiation and PVD* technology have been able to produce stable, treated topaz in almost any color of the rainbow. Metaphysical - Ancient Greeks called it the "stone of strength". Topaz is attributed with many healing qualities. It was used to cure rabies, plague, skin ulcers, gout, and as an eye lotion when steeped in wine for 3 days and then rubbed on the eyes. Greeks set it in the tips of long wands to divine the whereabouts of gold and other precious metals. During Medieval times, it was thought to heal both physical and mental disorders and prevent death and epilepsy. It was thought to neutralize any liquid that had poison in it. In ancient times, Topaz was called the "iris stone" due to the way it's transparent variety diffracts light. It was believed to be capable of curing madness, and immunizing against venom. When worn on the left hand, it is said to temper carnal passions. In modern times it is reported to fight kidney and bladder ailments, lung disorders, asthma, help eyesight, relieve depression and disturbing emotions, fight nightmares, for arthritis, and helps weight loss. *PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) technology by color coating a thin film considered to be environmentally "green" since no radiation or harsh chemicals are utilized.