White topazWhile we generally consider topaz to be a yellow stone, pure topaz is completely colorless with fire that rivals the diamond for beauty. Mined on nearly every continent, the best specimens of clear white topaz are found in South America. Learn more about the April birthstone White topaz buying guideClear topaz is relatively abundant, and it's not uncommon to find pieces that are clean to the naked eye. Prices for precious topaz are low in comparison to many other precious gems, making it an attractive, affordable alternative for April birthstones. White topaz careLike any precious gem, white topaz will look its best with routine care and handling. Everyday caution Like diamonds, topaz have the property of perfect cleavage - if struck from the right direction, they'll split cleanly along the cleavage lines. For that reason, it's important to take care not to strike the stone. Remove jewelry set with white topaz before doing yard work, playing sports or engaging in activities where the stone could be struck or bang against things. Wear gloves (or remove rings) when doing dishes and household cleaning chores. Be careful not to get chlorine bleach on the stone or metal fittings. Storing white topaz While topaz is one of the harder gems, it is still vulnerable to scratching and chipping from other stones, particularly sapphires and diamonds. When it's not being worn, store white topaz jewelry in a protective envelope or cloth inside a jewelry box. Avoid exposing it to high temperatures and bright light for long periods of time, as it may darken the stone. Cleaning white topaz jewelry Like most clear gems, white topaz benefits from frequent cleaning to remove buildup of dust, grease and dirt behind the stone which can dull its sparkle. Avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning white topaz. You can soak the piece in warm water with a little dishwashing liquid added, then scrub gently with a soft toothbrush to loosen any remaining dirt before rinsing. Commercial jewelry cleaners are safe for use with white topaz, including those that use a weak ammonia solution. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaning machines with white topaz jewelry. |
