Topaz
Overview
Topaz is one of the hardest silicate minerals, rated 8 on the Mohs scale. Natural topaz is often colorless or pale, while the most valued color is a golden orange to pinkish orange known as imperial topaz. Most blue topaz on the market is colorless topaz that has been treated to turn blue.
Origins
Brazil, especially the area around Ouro Preto, is the classic source of imperial topaz. Topaz is also mined in Sri Lanka, Nigeria and Pakistan.
The full topaz guide is being written by the Tavira Gems Editorial Team.
Last updated November 2, 2026 by the Tavira Gems Editorial Team.