Topaz: Golden, Sherry and Pink

Topaz is a silicate of aluminium and fluorine that forms in clear, well-shaped crystals. It is dense, which gives it a satisfying weight in the hand, and its polish is brilliant and slippery to the touch. This collection covers topaz in warm and other colours; blue and colourless topaz have their own pages.

Pakistan has a famous source. The Katlang area near Mardan has produced pink and peach imperial topaz, a colour admired by collectors worldwide. Such origin can only be confirmed by a lab, and we only state it where we know it.

Choosing topaz

• Colour: rich golden orange and pinkish orange, called imperial, are the most valued. Pale yellow and brown tones are common and affordable.
• Clarity: topaz is often clean, so visible inclusions should lower the price.
• Cut: long ovals, pears and emerald cuts follow the crystal shape and save weight.

Some pink topaz is created by heating golden stones, and some colours are coated. Look at the treatment line on each listing for what we know.

Yellow topaz is often sold in the bazaar as a stand-in for Pukhraj. It is a different mineral from yellow sapphire and should be priced as topaz. Some families accept it as a substitute; ask whoever advised you.

Topaz has hardness 8, harder than quartz, but it has one weakness: perfect cleavage. A sharp knock in the wrong direction can split it cleanly. Choose a protective setting with a bezel or sturdy claws, avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners, and keep rings off for gym and heavy work. Warm soapy water is the safe way to clean it.