Mystic Topaz: Properties, Uses and Virtues

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Mystic topaz is an artificial gem created by chemical vapor deposition on ordinary topaz, offering shimmering colors and iridescent reflections. Although it shares metaphysical properties with natural topaz, its artificial origin has led to controversy as to the purity of these attributes. Its hardness is equivalent to that of natural topaz (8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale), but its delicate surface coating treatment requires meticulous care to preserve its brilliance. Despite imitations, it remains popular for its spectacular appearance and accessibility.

ring with a central mystic topaz showing its various flashes of bright colors to illustrate the mystic topaz
Mystic topaz ring – Kimberly Simmons, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 DEED

Table of Contents

Mystic Topaz Artificial Formation

Contrary to popular belief, mystical topaz is not born in the depths of the Earth, but rather in laboratories where technicians use a technique called chemical vapor deposition (CVD) to apply a coating of thin metallic layers to ordinary topaz (which can be natural or synthetic). This process creates a refraction of light that gives the gem its characteristic brilliance and iridescent color palette.

Topaze Mystique Brut – Revealed Artificial Glints

Mystic rough topaz … are simple topazes! They feature prismatic orthorhombic shapes, often elongated and striated. The transformation process only takes place once the stone has been cut into its final shape!

Artificial Springs – Mystic Topaz Production

Any topaz can be used for this process. Most sources are Brazil, Russia, the United States, Japan, Madagascar and Australia.

Historical Significance of Mystic Topaz – A Recent Discovery

Mystic topaz is a relatively new gem compared with topaz itself. The first public appearance of a Mystique topaz dates back to 1998, at the Hong Kong Jewellery Show.

Metaphysical properties of Mystic Topaz – Manufactured Energy

Despite its artificial origin, mystic topaz is often associated with metaphysical properties similar to those of natural topaz, such as mental clarity, emotional balance and spiritual growth. However, some purists believe that these attributes are diluted by the manufacturing process and human manipulation.

Varieties of Mystic Topaz

Mystic topaz has no varieties as such.

Mystic Topaz colors

The color palette of mystic topaz is characterized by its strong metallic reflections, its flashes of every color and its ability to change color at any angle. This is due to the thin metallic film applied to the stone, which enhances its brilliance and breaks down the light that penetrates to the heart of the stone, acting like a prism.

Durability and portability of Mystic Topaz

Although mystic topaz can offer a spectacular appearance, its durability and long-term stability can be compromised by the chemical treatments used to produce it.

The stone has a hardness equal to that of classic topaz, from 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale, but the surface treatment is very fine (a few micrometers) and will therefore be very sensitive to scratches and knocks. A mystic topaz that is overworked will gradually lose its treatment.

(The treatment is technically renewable, however, I don’t know of any institute or store that allows you to bring your stone back and have it treated again…look it up! Wouldn’t it be great if we could have our stones re-treated rather than throwing them away to buy new ones?)

Imitations of Mystic Topaz – Distinguishing the Artificial

Due to its growing popularity, mystic topaz is often imitated by cheaper synthetic materials or treated natural gems. Most of the time you’ll find leaded glass like Swarovski crystals. However, mystic topaz is quite affordable and should be easy to find.

For those who like a mystical rendering, there’s also Quartz Aqua Aurora and CZ, which undergo the same process.

Care for Mystic Topaz – Preserving its Artificial Appearance

To preserve the luster and brilliance of mystic topaz, we recommend cleaning it with a soft cloth and a mild jewelry cleaner, and above all, avoid rubbing!

Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and harsh chemicals, which can alter the gem’s color and quality.

Be sure to store it in a place where it won’t come into contact with other stones or materials that could scratch it, and give preference to jewelry pieces that are less likely to be damaged, such as earrings!

F.A.Q


What is Mystic topaz?

Mystic topaz is an artificial gem created by chemical vapor deposition on ordinary topaz, giving it shimmering colors and iridescent reflections.

How is mystic topaz made? What is mystic topaz made from?

It is manufactured by applying a coating of thin metallic layers to ordinary topaz using the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique.

What colors does mystic topaz come in?

Mystic topaz features varied metallic reflections with flashes of all colors, often changing depending on the angle of view.

How to care for mystic topaz?

To preserve its shine, clean it with a soft cloth and mild jewelry cleaner, avoid harsh chemicals and store it separately to avoid scratches as the coating can be fragile.

Does mystic topaz last?

It has a hardness similar to that of natural topaz (8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale), but its delicate surface treatment makes it sensitive to scratches and knocks.

Is mystic topaz expensive? How much is mystic topaz worth?

Compared to other gemstones, mystic topaz is generally more affordable, although the price can vary depending on the quality and size of the stone.

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