Topaz is an exceptionally hard mineral but also very fragile. As a gemstone it's not easy to cut because it breaks easily along planes of weakness in its crystal structure.
In relation to rocks and minerals hardness and toughness are not the same.
Although topaz can be found in several countries around the world most material comes from Brazil.
The name 'topaz' comes from a small island in the Red Sea once known as Topazios.
Pliny the Elder ancient Roman author, naturalist and philosopher wrote about finding 'topazos' on what today is known as St. John's Island.
It's believed 'topazos' actually referred to olivine (the gemstone peridot) which was found there in abundance.
Topaz is also mentioned in the Old Testament in the book of Exodus.
Although blue topaz does occur naturally the vast majority is produced by irradiating (heating) white or colourless topaz.
TIGERS EYE
