What is the Difference Between Yellow Sapphire and Topaz?

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Yellow sapphire and topaz are both precious gemstones with similar physical appearances, but they have several differences that set them apart. Here are the main differences between yellow sapphire and topaz:

  1. Color: Yellow sapphire has a light yellow tint with more transparency, while topaz is a dark yellow with rich brightness.
  2. Durability: Topaz, although a hard gemstone, can easily break, cleave, and is brittle. Yellow sapphire is the hardest and most durable among the two.
  3. Density: Yellow sapphire is denser when compared to topaz.
  4. Specific Gravity: The specific gravity of yellow sapphire is much higher than that of topaz.
  5. Price: Yellow sapphire is more expensive than topaz.
  6. Astrological Properties: Yellow sapphire is appreciated for its high-end astrological powers, while topaz does not possess any such properties.

In summary, yellow sapphire and topaz may look similar, but they have distinct differences in color, durability, density, specific gravity, price, and astrological properties.

Comparative Table: Yellow Sapphire vs Topaz

Here is a table comparing the differences between Yellow Sapphire and Topaz:

Aspect Yellow Topaz Yellow Sapphire
Chemical Composition Aluminum silicate fluoride hydroxide (Al2SiO4(F,OH)2) Aluminum oxide (Al2O3)
Color Dark, bright yellow Light yellow, somewhat transparent
Hardness 8 on Mohs scale 9 on Mohs scale
Price Range per Carat Starts at around $3 per carat Starting range is $100 per carat
Durability Less durable than Yellow Sapphire More durable than Yellow Topaz
Specific Gravity 3.52 4.00
Refractive Index 1.610-1.620 1.760 – 1.770
Optic Character DR biaxial + DR uniaxial -
Luster Vitreous Vitreous
Transparency Sometimes Transparent Rarely Transparent
Benefits Healing properties, promotes forgiveness, balances chakras, aids in treating insomnia and liver ailments Associated with mental capabilities, therapeutic properties, attracts positive energy, wisdom, wealth, and prosperity

Yellow Sapphire is typically more expensive than Yellow Topaz due to its higher durability, rarity, and association with astrological properties. Both gemstones have different colors, with Yellow Topaz exhibiting a darker, brighter yellow hue compared to the lighter, more transparent yellow of Yellow Sapphire. Additionally, Yellow Sapphire has a higher refractive index, which means it reflects light better than Topaz.