The Moonlight Topaz

Other than the moonstone, there are more minerals with the Moon being part of their name: the moonlight topaz. The topaz is a compound of aluminum, fluorine and silicon and has the hardness value of 8, on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness from 1 (= selenite) to 10 (= diamond). Which means it is a very hard mineral. Topazes exist worldwide, but most findings originate in Brazil. When conditions are favorable for the growth of this mineral, their weight can easily reach up to 220 lb and more. The biggest topaz that was ever found, was 3.3 ft long and weighed 2.5 tons (Mozambique, Africa).

Topazes are transparent and come in many different natural shades, from a whitish-bluish to orange-reddish. Furthermore, there are colorings, achieved by the hand of man, with the help of electromagnetic radiation. Hence, the moonlight topaz: it is whitish-bluish with a soft shimmering color spectrum that reminds of the moonlight. It is a popular gem stone amongst collectors and processed into jewelry pieces.

Incidentally, the topaz offers us another reference to the Moon: a topaz found in Brazil called »Lua de Marabá« (the Moon of Marabá), is the second biggest polished topaz in the world. It has an octagon polish, a weight of 25.250 carat (equals 11lb) and 7.5 x 6 x 4 in in size. Its absolute clearness and the rare, gray color spectrum make it a unique piece.

Precious stones catch the light and this is how they fascinate us with their clearness and brilliance. The light appears to shine out of them. This is exactly the principle how the Moon touches us with the sunlight that he reflects.