Where can I find topaz in Mason County?

Topaz, the state gem of Texas, is found within the borders of the state only in Mason County. It occurs in granite outcroppings principally in the Streeter, Grit, and Katemcy areas. It is usually found in streambeds and ravines but occasionally can be located atop the ground.

Where can I dig for topaz in Texas?

Mason County is the only place in Texas where topaz is found, and the Lindsay Ranch is one of three ranches that allow topaz hunting. Mason County is part of the Llano Uplife and our old rocks have been pushed to the top.

Where can I mine blue topaz?

The pale or clear topaz that is enhanced to produce blue topaz is mined in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and China. Blue topaz is often confused with aquamarine. The mines in Utah and Mexico produce the reddish-brown topaz. Though not of high value, they are still more expensive than citrine.

Where can I find topaz?

Today, topaz deposits are found in Brazil, United States, Madagascar, Myanmar (Burma), Namibia, Zimbabwe Mexico, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Russia, and China. Topaz can feature the amber-gold of cognac or the blush of a peach, and any shade of warm brown or orange in between.

How do you identify topaz in the field?

There are a few easy ways to tell a real topaz apart from quartz. The first characteristic to keep in mind is the hardness factor. An original topaz will scratch glass while quartz will not leave a mark on it. Moreover, a real topaz is also cool to touch and it gets electrified easily.

How much is topaz worth?

Colorless topaz is usually $8 per carat or less, though faceted pieces can be around $14 per carat. Faceted imperial topaz can be anywhere from $100 per carat to over $1,000 per carat. Keep in mind that wholesale prices will still be lower, usually between $100-$600 per carat for imperial topaz.

Where can I hunt gemstones in Texas?

Mason County, located in the heart of Texas, is the best place in the state for hunters to find the colorless and light blue varieties. As there is no commercial mining of topaz in our area, Bar M Ranch offers everyone the opportunity to search for (and keep, of course!) the gem.

Is there topaz in Texas?

The granite plutons in the Llano Uplift in Mason County are the only masses known to bear topaz in Texas. Topaz naturally occurs in many colors, including yellow, pink and brown. Pure topaz is colorless; chemical impurities give it its color.

How much is raw topaz worth?

Colorless topaz, from which blue topaz is produced (via irradiation and heat), is available in sizes up to 100 cts. and greater, and sells for less than $8/ct. Brown topaz fetches similar prices. In contrast, precious topaz (a.k.a. ‘imperial’ topaz) in rich orange colors fetches prices in excess of $1000/ct.

Where can I dig for crystals in Texas?

Some of the best places where you can find high-quality quartz crystals include Glass Mountains, Alpine area, or Plata Verde Mine. Opal quartz specimens can be found in the area dikes between Babyhead to Miller Mt. The Moss Ranch area near Enchanted Rock is also an excellent location, but it requires you to pay a fee.