Detailed information
Species
Topaz
Dimensions
34 x 10 x 8
mm
Weight
4 g
Locality
Ouro Preto Iron Quadrangle Minas Gerais, Brazil
Condition
No recorded repairs
Gem Topaz has been mined at Ouro Preto (formerly called Vila Rica) in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil since the 18th century. At Ouro Preto a variety of Topaz is found which is much prized and was given the name 'Imperial Topaz'. This variety, which is usually sherry to golden-orange in colour, was not named after the discoveries at Ouro Preto, but from finds in Russia during the early 19th century, but the Brazilian crystals proved to be exceptional. This well-formed individual matrixless crystal presents the classic narrow prismatic, to almost blade-like shape, with a wedge-shaped termination and a flat, cleaved base. Inclusion-rich, its intense amber-orange colour is made to look golden by its internal reflections. At 3.4 cm in length this is far from the largest known 'Imperial Topaz' crystal, but is certainly a very fine example for the gem mineral enthusiast.