Topaz
Properties | ||
Refractive index | Hardness (out of 10) | Density |
1,606 – 1,638 | 8 | 3,53 – 3,56 |
In the past, all yellow or golden-brown gemstones were commonly called “Topaz”. This name comes from the Greek “topazos”. Another possible etymology could be the Sanskrit word “tupas” which means “fire”. The most common colour is yellow to orange, and the most precious is the pink Topaz (the Pink Topaz is often a heated brown stone). Current producers: Brazil (Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo), Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Russia (Urals and Transbaikal). Colourless Topaz is also irradiated in safety, then heated to obtain the colour palette of blues. These Topazes must be clearly indicated as treated.