topaz

/ˌtoʊˈpæz/

/ˈtʌʊpæz/

Other forms: topazes

Topaz is yellow quartz, and you may have seen it in your grandmother's beaded jewelry.

Topaz can mean a type of mineral that is found in many different colors. It can also specifically mean yellow quartz that is also called imperial topaz, common topaz, or false topaz. Topaz is often used in necklaces, earrings, and other types of jewelry. Chances are you've seen a woman wearing topaz at some point. This type of topaz is common and not as precious as some other types of gems such as emeralds or rubies. Still, most would consider topaz pretty.

Definitions of topaz

1. noun

   a mineral (fluosilicate of aluminum) that occurs in crystals of various colors and is used as a gemstone
   type of:

   mineral

   solid homogeneous inorganic substances occurring in nature having a definite chemical composition

   transparent gem

   a gemstone having the property of transmitting light without serious diffusion
2. noun

   a yellow quartz
   synonyms: common topaz, false topaz

   type of:

   quartz

   a hard glossy mineral consisting of silicon dioxide in crystal form; present in most rocks (especially sandstone and granite); yellow sand is quartz with iron oxide impurities
3. noun

   a light brown the color of topaz
   synonyms: tan

   type of:

   light brown

   a brown that is light but unsaturated