Comparison · Semi-Precious Stones
Topaz vs Zircon
Topaz and Zircon 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 Topaz and Zircon
- Both sit near Mohs 8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Zircon feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 4.6 versus 3.5 for Topaz).
- They overlap in clear, blue, and yellow, but Topaz also comes in orange and pink and Zircon also comes in red, green, and brown.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Topaz is orthorhombic, Zircon is tetragonal.
Topaz vs Zircon properties
| Property | Topaz | Zircon |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Semi-Precious Stones | Semi-Precious Stones |
| Mohs hardness | 8 | 7.5 |
| Luster | vitreous | adamantine |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | transparent | transparent |
| Specific gravity | 3.5 | 4.6 |
| Crystal system | orthorhombic | tetragonal |
| Common colors | Colorless, Blue, Yellow, Orange, Pink | Colorless, Blue, Red, Yellow, Green, Brown |
| Rarity | uncommon | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $20–$3000+ | $50–$2000+ |
Which is more valuable?
Zircon is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $200 against $100 for Topaz, and premium Zircon can reach $2000 or more.
About Topaz
Topaz is an aluminum silicate mineral prized for its hardness and brilliant colors. Imperial topaz (orange-pink) from Brazil is most valuable.
About Zircon
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some crystals over 4 billion years old. Not to be confused with synthetic cubic zirconia.
Topaz vs Zircon FAQ
Is Topaz the same as Zircon?
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 Topaz from Zircon?
Both sit near Mohs 8, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Zircon feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 4.6 versus 3.5 for Topaz). They overlap in clear, blue, and yellow, but Topaz also comes in orange and pink and Zircon also comes in red, green, and brown.
Which is harder, Topaz or Zircon?
Topaz is harder: Mohs 8 against Mohs 7.5 for Zircon.
Which is more valuable, Topaz or Zircon?
Zircon is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $200 against $100 for Topaz, and premium Zircon can reach $2000 or more.
