Topaz — Imperial Orange — Specimen Grade

$3,053.99
Chemical FormulaAl₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂
Crystal SystemOrthorhombic
Mohs Hardness8
Specific Gravity3.53
LusterVitreous
TransparencyTransparent

Imperial topaz in the precious sherry-to-deep-orange range is found in one place on Earth: the hills above Ouro Preto. The color comes from chromophoric impurities stabilized durin…

Only 1 available — a rare find.

SKU: TC-MIN-0276
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Description

The universe has 13.8 billion years of history. Some of it fits in your hand. Imperial topaz in the precious sherry-to-deep-orange range is found in one place on Earth: the hills above Ouro Preto. The color comes from chromophoric impurities stabilized during crystallization in topaz-bearing pegmatites. Brazilian law once restricted export to protect royal reserves. Some specimens still carry that weight of exclusivity.

This specimen originates from Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil, one of the world’s most significant localities for this type of material. Collectors and scientists have drawn from this region for generations, and for good reason: the combination of geological conditions here produces specimens of exceptional quality and clarity.

Every specimen is unique. Photographs approximate the visual experience, but the real thing — its weight, its luster under a raking light, the way it catches the corner of your eye — can only be experienced directly.

Formation

This specimen formed through geological processes operating over timescales that dwarf human history. The specific combination of chemistry, temperature, pressure, and time at this locality produced material of exceptional quality that makes it a valued addition to any serious collection.

Locality

Topaz — Imperial Orange — Specimen Grade from Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil. This locality is known for producing specimens of exceptional quality.

Collector Notes

Photograph with a neutral grey background to capture true color.