Comparison · Semi-Precious Stones
Spinel vs Topaz
Spinel and Topaz are easy to confuse because both are semi-precious stones. Both sit near Mohs 8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Spinel and Topaz
- Both sit near Mohs 8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- They overlap in pink, blue, and orange, but Spinel also comes in red, purple, and black and Topaz also comes in clear and yellow.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Spinel is cubic, Topaz is orthorhombic.
Spinel vs Topaz properties
| Property | Spinel | Topaz |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Semi-Precious Stones | Semi-Precious Stones |
| Mohs hardness | 8 | 8 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | transparent | transparent |
| Specific gravity | 3.6 | 3.5 |
| Crystal system | cubic | orthorhombic |
| Common colors | Red, Pink, Blue, Purple, Orange, Black | Colorless, Blue, Yellow, Orange, Pink |
| Rarity | uncommon | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $100–$10000+ | $20–$3000+ |
Which is more valuable?
Spinel is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $500 against $100 for Topaz, and premium Spinel can reach $10000 or more.
About Spinel
Spinel was historically mistaken for ruby and sapphire. The 'Black Prince's Ruby' in the British Crown Jewels is actually a spinel.
About Topaz
Topaz is an aluminum silicate mineral prized for its hardness and brilliant colors. Imperial topaz (orange-pink) from Brazil is most valuable.
Spinel vs Topaz FAQ
Is Spinel the same as Topaz?
No. Both are semi-precious stones, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Spinel from Topaz?
Both sit near Mohs 8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. They overlap in pink, blue, and orange, but Spinel also comes in red, purple, and black and Topaz also comes in clear and yellow. Well-formed crystals give it away: Spinel is cubic, Topaz is orthorhombic.
Which is harder, Spinel or Topaz?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 8.
Which is more valuable, Spinel or Topaz?
Spinel is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $500 against $100 for Topaz, and premium Spinel can reach $10000 or more.
