mineral

Raw Topaz

Aluminum Silicate Fluoride Hydroxide, Al2SiO4(F,OH)2

Hardness: 8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, golden brown, or clear; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect basal; Specific Gravity: 3.4-3.6

Hardness: 8
Color: Yellow, golden brown, or clear
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified June 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 8.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Yellow, golden brown, or clear; Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect basal; Specific Gravity: 3.4-3.6

Formation & geological history

Forms in high-temperature environments, specifically crystallizing from fluorine-bearing vapors during the last stages of the solidification of igneous rocks like granite or rhyolite. It is often found in pegmatite veins and cavities.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a gemstone in jewelry, especially when faceted. Due to its hardness, it is also used in industry as an abrasive, though less commonly than synthetic alternatives. High-quality crystals are prized by mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Topaz is the birthstone for November. It is often confused with Citrine (quartz), but Topaz is significantly harder and denser. Large crystals weighing hundreds of pounds have been found in Brazil.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its hardness (will scratch glass and quartz), its high density (feels heavy for its size), and its characteristic orthorhombic crystal shape. Commonly found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Russia, and the United States (notably Utah).

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic