Topaz
A sparkling aluminosilicate that ranges from icy blues to imperial golds, prized since antiquity as a stone of clarity and fortune.
A sparkling aluminosilicate that ranges from icy blues to imperial golds, prized since antiquity as a stone of clarity and fortune.
Origin & Formation
Topaz crystallizes in pegmatite cavities and hydrothermal veins as fluorine-rich vapors cool, forming prismatic crystals that can reach remarkable size.
Known origins: Brazil, Pakistan, Russia, Sri Lanka, Nigeria
Color Variations
- Imperial
- Sky blue
- Swiss blue
- London blue
- Golden
- Pink
Symbolism & Lore
Long thought to calm tempers and grant courage, it was believed to glow in darkness to signal shipwreck.
Buying Tips from Our Gemologists
Most commercial 'blue topaz' is irradiated and heat-treated — lovely but modestly valued. The rare Imperial topaz in golden-orange-pink tones commands far higher prices and is the connoisseur's choice.
Caring for Your Topaz
Topaz cleaves easily on impact. Protect it from hard knocks, clean with warm soapy water, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners for fractured or treated stones.
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