Topaz

About colored gemstones

Every gemstone is a natural creation, formed over time by unique geological forces. No two stones are alike. Their colour, structure, and character give your jewel its individuality and determine how it should be worn and cared for. In gemmology, hardness refers to a gemstone’s resistance to scratching and is measured on the Mohs scale, which ranges from 1 (very soft) to 10 (diamond).

This hardness influences how well a gemstone retains its surface polish over time, but it does not indicate resistance to impact. Even the hardest gemstones can chip or cleave if struck at the wrong angle. Alongside hardness, properties such as toughness, cleavage, and stability define how a gemstone reacts to pressure, heat, light, and chemicals. Because each stone combines these characteristics differently, care is guided by the gemstone itself rather than by appearance alone.

With thoughtful handling, your Orphée jewel will preserve its beauty, integrity, and refinement for years to come.

Jewellery care

To ensure your jewellery continues to shine beautifully, Orphée offers a yearly professional cleaning, along with a careful check of the prongs to ensure each setting remains secure and perfectly aligned. To preserve the beauty and longevity of your jewellery, we recommend removing it during the following activities.

Heat, steam, and sudden cooling may affect both gemstones and settings.

Soap residue and temperature changes can dull gemstones over time.

Soil, dust, and repeated contact with hard materials may cause abrasion or chipping. Gemstones and gold are solid materials, yet they should always be worn with care.

Chlorine and salt water can damage both gemstones and precious metals.

As a general rule, jewellery should be the last item you put on and the first you remove. This helps limit exposure to perfume, hairspray, cosmetics, and creams. When not worn, store each piece separately in a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box to prevent scratching or impact.

Family

Siliciate

Hardness

8 on the Mohs hardness scale

Key characteristics

A brilliant gemstone with perfect cleavage, making it sensitive to impact and thermal shock despite its good hardness.

Meaning

Associated with clarity, inner strength, and emotional balance.

Cleaning

Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

Avoid

Sudden temperature changes such as spa, sauna, or steam rooms.
Hard knocks, pressure, or impact from activities like gardening, DIY, or sports. Prolonged heat exposure, which may affect the colour.

Colour and variety considerations

Topaz occurs naturally in colourless, blue, yellow, pink, and imperial tones.
Blue topaz is commonly enhanced through treatment and remains stable in normal wear but should be protected from heat.Imperial and pink varieties are rarer and particularly valued for their depth of colour.