Updated as of June 2026
Imperial Topaz
The prized pink to golden-orange variety of topaz, historically linked to royalty, abundance, and warmth.
Price range$100 to $1,500/ct
Hardness (Mohs)8
ColorsOrange, Pink, Golden, Peach
BirthstoneNovember
AltGems Score How we score
6.8/10
Imperial Topaz pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent durability (Mohs 8) for everyday wear
- Rare and collectible
- A recognized birthstone (November)
- Usually sold untreated
Cons
- Can chip or cleave from a hard knock
- Premium per-carat cost for fine quality
Imperial Topaz is ideal for earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings, and works in everyday rings with a protective setting.
Explore Imperial Topaz
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestImperial Topaz jewelry
Imperial Topaz ringsImperial Topaz engagement ringsImperial Topaz necklacesImperial Topaz pendantsImperial Topaz earringsImperial Topaz bracelets
Imperial Topaz by cut
Round Imperial TopazOval Imperial TopazEmerald Cut Imperial TopazCushion Imperial TopazPrincess Imperial TopazPear Imperial TopazAll cuts
Imperial Topaz ring styles
Imperial Topaz solitaire ringImperial Topaz halo ringImperial Topaz three stone ringImperial Topaz hidden halo ringImperial Topaz vintage and antique ringImperial Topaz bezel ringAll styles
Imperial Topaz by metal
Imperial Topaz in yellow goldImperial Topaz in white goldImperial Topaz in rose goldImperial Topaz in platinumImperial Topaz in sterling silver
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Overpaying at one retailer without comparing the same color and carat elsewhere.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Hard but cleaves easily. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, heat, and sunlight.
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Where to buy Imperial Topaz: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Imperial Topaz?
The prized pink to golden-orange variety of topaz, historically linked to royalty, abundance, and warmth. It rates 8 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in orange, pink, golden, peach.
How much does Imperial Topaz cost?
Imperial Topaz typically runs about $100 to $1,500 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Imperial Topaz price guide for detail.
Is Imperial Topaz good for everyday jewelry?
Yes. At Mohs 8 it is durable enough for rings and daily wear with normal care.
What is the AltGems Score for Imperial Topaz?
Imperial Topaz earns an overall AltGems Score of 6.8 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Imperial Topaz?
Hard but cleaves easily. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, heat, and sunlight.