This exquisite floral barrette is made in silver and 15k gold and set with warm champagne-toned topaz. Topaz is believed to derive it's name from either the ancient Sanskrit word topas meaning "fire", or for the old Greek island of Topazios. The gemstone occurs in many places throughout the world, as well as in varied colors including yellow, blue, and colorless to name a few. Topaz mines were discovered in Brazil in the 17th century, and seeing as it was a Portuguese-held territory at the time, the fruits of these mines were shipped to Portugal and traded throughout Europe for use in jewelry. This wonderful Portuguese hair ornament features a stylized blossom and leaf at the center flanked by softly curved shoulders with ribbon details at each end.