Mystic Topaz Definition
There are several variations of the gemstone topaz, which are found in jewelry stores and come in a variety of colors and styles. One type of topaz, the mystic topaz, offers the wearer a distinctive stone that has a scintillating, rainbow effect. The coating of the topaz that provides this rich hue is man-created, and the gem should be handled with care.
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Description
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Topaz that is coated with an ultra-thin film, similar to the coatings used on camera lenses, can change the color of the stone. Mystic topaz is a topaz that has been coated with a film giving it a rainbow effect of scintillation and color. This coating is a thin layer of titanium that is only microns thick. It is applied to the bottom of the stone also, otherwise known as the pavilion of the stone.
Considerations
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The coating of a mystic topaz can be scratched or damaged easily. The coating is also sensitive to chemicals, including cleaning supplies and chlorine. Mystic topaz should not be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner or with a steamer.
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Quality
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The rainbow coating on a mystic topaz gives the stone an artificial appearance. The quality of the film coating and the visibility of inclusions will affect the quality of each stone. The more inclusions, the lower the quality.
Chemical Composition
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Topaz is found in igneous rocks and more rarely in metamorphic rocks. It can also be found in the cavities of rhyolite and granite and also in some hydrothermal veins. It is not an abundant gem, but it can be found throughout the world. Topaz rates at an 8 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness and is classified as a silicate mineral.
Uses
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Mystic topaz is not used for anything except jewelry. The mystic topaz can be set into rings, earrings, bracelets and pendants. Settings can range from gold to platinum and silver. Due to how fragile the coating is on a mystic topaz it is better suited for a necklace or earrings, as opposed to a ring, which often gets bumped or scratched.
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References
- Photo Credit edelsteine image by amandare from Fotolia.com
