Exhibits
Natural Wonders: Treasures of the Texas Natural Science Center
Blue Topaz
B345
Al2[F/OH2/SiO4]
Weighs 1778 carats (heavier than a full can of soda)
Found in Dawson Mine, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Topaz has fascinated human cultures for hundreds of years. It occurs in many colors, not just blue, and is used in jewelry because of its hardness and beauty. The intense blue color of this topaz specimen is probably natural. Today topaz is often irradiated to create artificial blue colors for jewelry. Many times it also has inclusions, or imperfections, inside the gem. Look closely at this specimen, and you’ll see clear through to the other side. It is very rare to find a large topaz like this one so clear, and with natural blue color! Blue topaz is also found in Mason County and is the state gemstone of Texas.
