Topaz
Topaz can have the amber gold of fine cognac or the delicate blush of a ripe peach and occurs in all the warm browns and oranges in between. Some exceptional stones are pale pink to a rich sherry red. In the trade, the term Imperial is applied to stones that have an orange body color with red overtones. Golden topaz is the designated birthstone for November and Imperial for the 23rd wedding anniversary. Topaz is also the Utah state gemstone and is found in Brazil, Mexico, Sri Lanka and Africa.
Refractive Index
1.619-1.627 (+/- 0.01)
Specific Gravity
3.53 (+0.04)
Hardness
8
Toughness
Poor
Enhancements
Heating produces pink/red from yellow, orange and brown. Blue topaz is irradiated and heated to produce color.
Enhancements Frequency
Occasionally for yellow/golden and always for blue.
Enhancements Stability
Excellent
Care Tips
Although hard, Topaz is relatively fragile. Be sure to handle with care. Ultrasonic and steam cleaning should be avoided.
Birthstone Month
November
Anniversary Year
Imperial - 23rd; Blue - 4th; Golden 17th