Natural Topaz (Sunehla) Stone in Pakistan

Colours of topaz and what they tell you

Imperial and golden topaz

Warm golden, orange and sherry tones, with the most valued "imperial" shades leaning towards orange-pink. Brazil, especially the Ouro Preto area, is the classic source. In the local trade golden topaz is sometimes called Sunehla, a name also used loosely for citrine.

Pink topaz from Katlang

Natural pink topaz is rare. The Katlang deposit in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is known for pink to violet-pink crystals, and Pakistani buyers value owning a stone from home. Where we know a stone's origin, the listing says so.

Blue topaz

Sky, Swiss and London blue topaz are popular and affordable. Nearly all of it is colourless topaz that has been irradiated and heated to produce a stable blue, a standard practice that we disclose.

White (colourless) topaz

Bright and inexpensive, a good choice for a clear, sparkling stone.

Topaz is not Pukhraj

In some markets yellow topaz is passed off as Pukhraj. True Pukhraj is yellow sapphire, which is corundum and much more costly. Topaz is a fine gem in its own right, but the two should never be confused, especially if you are buying for astrological reasons. Our listings always name the mineral.

What sets the price

Rarity of colour leads: natural pink and imperial shades cost far more than treated blue or colourless topaz. Within each colour, saturation and evenness matter, followed by clarity (topaz is usually eye-clean), cut and size. Each listing's per-carat rate is price divided by carat weight.

Checking authenticity

Topaz is hard (8 on the Mohs scale), feels cold and noticeably heavy for its size, and takes a slippery, glassy polish. Glass imitations warm quickly and may show bubbles. Because citrine, quartz and topaz can look alike, a certificate of authenticity is available on request, and independent lab testing can be arranged.

Tradition

Topaz is a November birthstone (blue topaz is often given for December). In South Asian astrology yellow topaz is linked with Jupiter (Brihaspati) and sometimes worn as a gentler substitute for Pukhraj, traditionally for wisdom and prosperity. These are beliefs, not guaranteed outcomes.

Caring for your topaz

Despite its hardness, topaz has perfect cleavage and can split from a sharp knock. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners and sudden temperature changes; warm soapy water is enough.

Ordering from GemStore

We inspect every stone and show it as it is. Delivery is by insured, tracked courier across Pakistan, Cash on Delivery lets you check before paying, and unused stones can be returned within 7 days of delivery.