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Topaz with elbaite, lepidolite, and albite
Chip Clark
Specimen | Catalog Number | Locality | Weight |
---|---|---|---|
Topaz | NMNH 148321 | Brazil, Minas Gerais |
Topaz is an aluminum silicate mineral, and its crystal habit is typically prismatic with pyramidal terminations. It is renowned for its ability to grow huge gem-quality crystals. Pure topaz is colorless, however impurities can impart many colors. The highly prized imperial topaz is an intense golden to reddish-orange color. More commonly topaz is colorless to pale blue or yellow.This specimen has pale yellow topaz crystals with albite and lepidolite.