How to Choose High-Quality Topaz

A symbol of friendship and fidelity, the topaz ranges in color from fiery gold and orange to delicate pink. Clear topaz can also be irradiated to become blue. Topaz treated this way is more affordable than the rare blue topaz found in nature.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Jewel Boxes
• Topaz Bracelets
• Topaz Earrings
• Topaz Necklaces
• Topaz Rings
• Jewelry Insurance

1. Deal with a trusted and reputable jeweler who is familiar with gemstones in general and topaz in particular.

2. Ask if the stone has been treated in any way. Some common treatments to enhance gems include irradiation, heat treatment, dyeing and coating. Not all of these treatments will devalue the stone, but always ask so you know what you're getting.

3. Examine the color of the stone. The rarest and most expensive topaz is naturally light pink or red, such as the "Imperial topaz" prized by 18th- and 19th-century Russian royalty. Other colors include yellow, brown, green and peach.

4. Look at the stone to be sure it has no visible flaws or inclusions.

5. Study the cut of the stone. Topaz can be cut into a variety of shapes, but should reflect light evenly from the surface when held face up and should not show any scratches. Look at the stone from several different angles to be sure.

6. Compare several topaz stones side by side. Look at color and cut, and choose the stone that you like best.

Tips & Warnings

• Blue topaz is fairly rare in nature, and thus expensive. If you are interested in blue topaz, always ask if it is natural or enhanced, as the natural is far more prized.
• Topaz is likely to be less expensive that some other gems, and treated blue topaz is less expensive than aquamarine.
• If you're shopping online, investigate the site's return policy, and make sure you buy from a reputable online jeweler.
• Watch out for misleading descriptions such as "Rio topaz," "Spanish topaz," "Bohemian topaz," "Occidental topaz," "Nevada topaz" and "Madeira topaz." These are not true topaz at all, but types of citrine, or quartz.