Topaz is a common gemstone that has been used for centuries in jewelry. Its golden brown to yellow color is classic but is confused with the less valuable citrine, which is sold under the name topaz. The blue topaz that is often confused with aquamarine is rarely natural and is produced by irradiating and then heating clear crystals. Topaz is the November Birthstone. The ancient Greeks believed topaz gave the wearer great strength and could also make them invisible. Some other attributes and uses through the ages for the stone include increasing the appetite, treating hemorrhages, protecting eyesight and combating blood disorders. The ancient Egyptians wore yellow topaz and thought that it represented their sun god Ra. There are two theories as to how it got its name. One theory says that the name came from the island of Topazos which is in the Red Sea. The Romans got a stone from this island that was not really topaz, but peridot or chrysolite. The other theory says that the stone got its name from the Sanskrit word tapas, which means fire.

It is a very hard stone, and jewelry made from it is very durable and should be stored separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches. Topaz is found in many parts of the world, including Siberia, Russia, Sri Lanka, China, Africa, Pakistan, Mexico, South America and areas of The United States.