White topaz is a colourless, transparent variety of the mineral topaz. It is commonly used as a gemstone and is often used as a substitute for diamond.
It is typically less expensive than diamond, but still has a good level of brilliance. White topaz can be found in a variety of sizes and shapes and is often used in jewelry such as rings, earrings, and pendants.
White topaz is believed to carry the energy of truth. Meaning, it aids you in clarifying your thoughts, live out your intentions, and enhance your ability to think clearly.
Read on to learn more about this stunning gemstone.
The Physical Properties of White Topaz
While white topaz is usually colorless, it can also have a slight yellow or grayish tint. It has a Mohs hardness of 8, which makes it an exceptionally durable gemstone for jewellery use. The gemstone can be treated in many ways to enhance or change its colours.
It has a relatively low refractive index (RI) of 1.610-1.644 and a relatively low dispersion (0.0190) compared to other precious gemstones. Its specific gravity ranges between 3.49 to 3.57.
It is a uniaxial mineral, meaning it has a single optic axis and is commonly found in the form of prismatic crystals that can be elongated, or short and stubby.
The History of White Topaz
Many experts believe that the name of topaz originates from topazios, which is the ancient Greek name for an island in the Red Sea, known as Zabargad today. This island was not known for producing topaz but was a source of peridot, which was mistaken for topaz before the advancement of mineralogy.
Some researchers have traced the root of the name back to the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit, where it is called topas or tapaz which means “fire.”
Topaz is commonly found in the form of crystals within the cracks and empty spaces of igneous rocks. These crystals can be found in the pockets of pegmatites or in the hollows and gaps of rhyolite. They form during the latter stages of magma cooling as the release of gases provides the fluorine needed for the growth of topaz crystals.
Topaz can also be found as smooth pebbles in streambeds that are the result of erosion of pegmatites and rhyolites. These pebbles are usually obtained through placer mining or the use of water to excavate, transport, and recover heavy minerals from alluvial deposits.
White topaz was not as highly valued as other types of topaz until the 18th and 19th centuries, when advances in cutting and polishing techniques allowed for the creation of more brilliant and sparkling gems.
Today, white topaz is commonly used as a diamond simulant, as it has a similar appearance but is less expensive. It is also used in a wide range of jewelry designs, from simple stud earrings to more elaborate cocktail rings.
Popular sources of topaz are Australia, Brazil, India, Madagascar, Myanmar, Mexico, Namibia, Russia, the USA, and Zimbabwe.
The Lore of White Topaz
The ancient Greeks believed that topaz had the power to increase strength and make the wearer invisible in times of emergency. The ancient Romans also valued topaz, and it was said to have healing powers.
In the Middle Ages, topaz was thought to have the power to drive away evil spirits and protect the wearer from harm. During this time, topaz was also believed to have the power to change color in the presence of poisoned food or drink.
The Metaphysical Properties of White Topaz
White topaz is said to be a highly spiritual stone and it is particularly effective for stimulating the crown chakra. The spiritual properties of this gemstone will help to increase your creativity and help you to express your unique self.
It is also believed to bring success in both personal and professional life, and also promote success that benefits others as well.
As you work with white topaz, it can help you to align your thoughts and actions with the will of a higher power. By shifting your mindset and the way you live your life, white topaz can assist in bringing your intentions to reality.
The clear energy of this gemstone is believed to help clarify your thoughts. By focusing on your goals and desires, especially those related to creativity, this stone may help you to achieve them more quickly.
One of the best ways to use white topaz is by meditating with it as it helps to balance your emotions. This can help you overcome fear, including deep-seated fears that may be related to certain aspects of your life.
When used in meditation, it has a calming energy that can cleanse your emotions and its energy can help you replace negative feelings with love, joy, peace, strength, and courage.
Sources:
Hustrulid, W. A. (1998, July 20). *Placer mining. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/technology/placer-mining
King, H. M. (n.d.). Topaz Uses and Properties of the Mineral and Gem. https://geology.com/minerals/topaz.shtml
Topaz History and Lore. (n.d.). https://www.gia.edu/topaz-history-lore
White Topaz Meaning & Use: Helps To Clarify Your Thoughts & Intentions. (n.d.). HealingCrystalsForYou.com. https://www.healing-crystals-for-you.com/white-topaz.html
