Famous Topazes: From the Braganza Diamond to Queen Elizabeth II’s Brazilian Parure
Topaz is a beautiful gemstone that has been prized for centuries. Its name comes from the ancient Greek word “topazios,” which referred to an island in the Red Sea where yellow stones were mined. The stone was believed to have magical powers, and it was worn by royalty and high priests in ancient times.
Today, topaz is still a popular gemstone. It comes in many different colors, including blue, pink, and orange. In this article, we will focus on the famous topazes in history and culture.
The Braganza Diamond
One of the most famous topazes is actually part of a larger diamond called the Braganza Diamond. This diamond is one of the largest diamonds ever found, weighing over 1,600 carats. However, it also contains a large blue topaz at its center.
The Braganza Diamond was discovered in Brazil in the 17th century and eventually made its way to Portugal where it became part of the Portuguese Crown Jewels. The diamond was later stolen during Napoleon’s invasion of Portugal but eventually recovered by British forces.
Today, the diamond (and its topaz) are on display at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris.
The Topkapi Palace Dagger
Another famous piece of jewelry that features a topaz is the Topkapi Palace Dagger. This dagger was crafted in India during the 17th century and features a large greenish-blue topaz set into its hilt.
The dagger was later acquired by Sultan Mahmud I of Turkey who added more gems to its design before donating it to Topkapi Palace – his royal residence – where it remains today as part of their collection.
Queen Elizabeth II’s Brazilian Parure
Topazes have also been used extensively throughout history as adornments for royalty around Europe due to their beauty and rarity. One such example can be seen within Queen Elizabeth II’s Brazilian Parure – A suite of jewels that was gifted to her by the Brazilian government in 1953.
The set includes a necklace, bracelet, earrings, and brooch – all of which contain large oval-shaped topazes surrounded by diamonds. The pieces were designed by London based jeweler Mappin & Webb using stones sourced from Brazil’s Minas Gerais region.
It is believed that Queen Elizabeth II has worn this parure on numerous occasions including state dinners, official visits and most notably during her Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012.
The Blue Topaz of Irajá
Another famous topaz is the Blue Topaz of Irajá. This stone weighs over 600 carats and was discovered in the late 1980s in Brazil’s Minas Gerais region. It is one of the largest blue topazes ever found.
The stone was named after the neighborhood where it was found – Irajá – and it quickly gained fame for its size and beauty. It eventually ended up in the hands of a private collector who displayed it at various events around the world.
In 2008, however, it was announced that the Blue Topaz of Irajá would be added to London’s Natural History Museum as part of their permanent collection.
The American Golden Topaz
One final famous topaz worth mentioning here is known as “the American Golden”– a yellow-colored gemstone weighing more than 22 pounds (10 kg) making it one of the heaviest cut gems ever discovered.
This particular topaz was unearthed from a mine near Ouro Preto City (Minas Gerais) back in mid-19th century before being sold several times before finally being acquired by an anonymous owner.
Today, “the American Golden” remains privately owned but has been exhibited on occasion such as during Smithsonian natural history museum’s exhibit called ‘Gems’ held between July-April back in year 1997.
Conclusion
Topazes have been admired for centuries and have played important roles in many cultures. From the Braganza Diamond to Queen Elizabeth II’s Brazilian Parure, these gemstones continue to captivate people with their beauty and history. Whether you are a collector or simply appreciate fine jewelry, topazes are an excellent choice for your collection.