White Topaz Information

White topaz is a type of gemstone.

White is one of the many colors of topaz; this clear type is called white, silver or clear. It is the pure form of topaz with no impurities. A white topaz is frequently used in place of a diamond.

Birthstone

White topaz is sometimes used as the birthstone alternative for April. This is a more affordable option than diamonds.

Composition

White topaz is a pure stone, composed of aluminum silicate. Topaz that is colored will contain other minerals along with the aluminum silicate.

Hardness

White topaz has a hardness of eight on the Mohr scale. Diamond, the hardest gemstone, has a hardness of 10.

Representation

White topaz stands for warmth, compassion and clarity. Some believe that it has the ability to calm emotions, harness anger or protect against sudden death and misfortune. It is associated with communication, relationship, trust and true love.

Name

The name "topaz" is thought to come from one of two origins. Topaz is the name for fire in Sanskrit. The word also may have been named after Topazios, an island that was frequently shrouded in fog and hard to find. The Greek meaning for the world topaz is "to seek," referring to the island of Topazios, where topaz was found at one time.

Location

White topaz can be found worldwide. The purest forms of white topaz are found in South America.

References

• Unique Jewelry Guide: April Birthstone
• JJKent: About the History and Properties of Topaz