#6028 Georgian necklace with topaz. Antique topaz jewelry is no less exciting than the
Alfred Hitchcock thriller, Topaz, about spies and the Cold War. When you delve into the topic, you will find antique topaz
jewelry just as intrigueing. For anyone born in November, this is your birthstone.
Georgian bangle with turquoise and topaz.
Lucky you November babies. Do you know that November is one of the most fun months? It is associated with joy, generosity and good health. What more could anyone ask for? Furthermore, November's flower, the chrysanthemum, is a symbol for both beauty and joy. For us antique jewelry lovers, what could be more appropriate?
There are a host of famous people born in November. Without getting too boring, here are 3: Grace Kelly, Marie Curie and Charles Schultz. Beauty, brains and laughter. I rest my case.
Where does topaz come from? Like many gems, it is to be found in many countries, but most famously, Brazil. In ancient times, Sri Lanka was the top source for this gem. Today, it is found in various African countries, China, Pakistan and as far afield as Russia and Myanmar, both known for their high quality and range of gems.
Confusion reigns: the name 'topaz' derives from the Red Sea area and the Hebrew word 'tapuz' - orange and Sanskrit word
for fiery. The gems mentioned by the Bible, ancient Egyptians and Greeks are believed to be forms of chrysolite and
not topaz at all. During the Middle Ages, any yellowish gem was referred to as Topaz.
#7163 Georgian pendant.
While antique topaz jewelry is usually very fine and delicate, enormous topaz weighing as much as 100kg, thousands of
carats, have been found. There are many sources of topaz across the world.
Like many other gems, topaz in ancient times was associated with a host of magical and mystical powers, many based on
sun-like qualities. A cure for everything from insomnia to hemorrhages. Worn as an amulet or, did they actually ingest it?
Along with his famous diamonds, pearls, rubies and sapphires the rich and powerful Mughal Emperor of India had a favorite
gem, the Topaz of Aurangzeb (approximately 158carats) - substantially less than the American Golden Topaz at 22,892.5carats. Glad to hear they got that .5 right.
#6567 Signed Wolfers pink topaz.Next week, we will discuss the colors of topaz.
Questions and comments: Please email antiques@brendaginsberg.com
Find jewelry on www.brendaginsberg.com