Comparing two goliath gemstones of similar hues and properties has always enticed gemstone enthusiasts and gemologists. Making a meticulous and in-depth comparison of two popular gemstones not only unveils jaw-dropping facts but also helps the masses to choose the best gemstones among two that cater to their needs perfectly.
In the realm of gemstones, yellow sapphire, and yellow topaz are two of the most bodacious and bewitching gemstones with astronomical monetary and astrological values. While yellow sapphire belongs to the corundum mineral family, yellow topaz is a complex silicate of Aluminium and fluoride. Yellow sapphire is one of the most expensive precious gemstones in the world. On the other hand, yellow topaz is widely acknowledged as one of the most exemplary substitutes of yellow sapphire and is considered by those who don’t have the budget to embrace a natural pukhraj stone.
Despite sharing similar hues and properties, natural yellow sapphire stone and yellow topaz differ profoundly from each other. For the sake and knowledge enrichment of our valued readers, we have come up with a handy comparison between yellow sapphire vs yellow topaz that distinguishes between these two in-demand gemstones in the clearest way possible. Let’s go through the blog!
Table of Contents
Yellow Sapphire vs Yellow Topaz: Major Differences
Yellow Sapphire vs Yellow Topaz: Origin
Yellow sapphires also known as pukhraj stones are found in various locations in the world but the primary sources of yellow sapphires include Sri Lanka, Thailand, Madagascar, and Kashmir, India. Out of all the deposits of natural yellow sapphires, Sri Lanka is particularly renowned profoundly for its high-quality Ceylon yellow sapphires which can even cost $50,000 per carat.
On the other hand, yellow topaz is more widely distributed in the world than yellow sapphire. Some of the prime sources of yellow topaz deposits are in Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Sri Lanka, and the United States. Brazil is known for its rich and massive deposits of imperial topaz, a prized variety with a deep golden-yellow color.
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Yellow Sapphire vs Yellow Topaz: Color
Natural Yellow Sapphires tend to have rich and lush golden-yellow hues ranging from a light lemon color to a deep golden orange-yellow. The yellow color in a pukhraj gemstone comes from traces of iron impurities within the corundum crystal structure. More iron richness in yellow sapphires leads to a deeper yellow color. Original Pukhraj stones are acknowledged as one of the most precious yellow gemstones and they are on par with yellow diamond in rarity and value.
Yellow Topaz Color ranges widely from pale to straw yellow to a deep amber shade. Some very light topaz can appear almost colorless. The yellow in topaz comes from color centers caused by natural or artificial irradiation of the stone. This yellow tends to be a “softer” yellow. Much more common and affordable than natural yellow sapphire. Yellow topaz is readily available, while fine yellow sapphire is quite rare.
In summary, yellow sapphire tends to be a richer, more saturated and intense yellow, while yellow topaz usually has a lighter, softer yellow tone. But there can be crossover in shades. While similar in color, yellow sapphire is a far more prized and valuable gem.
Yellow Sapphire vs Yellow Topaz: Physical Properties
Yellow sapphire and yellow topaz are both beautiful and vibrant gemstones that share a similar appearance, but they have distinct physical properties that set them apart. Here’s a comparison of their key physical properties:
| Property | Yellow Sapphire | Yellow Topaz |
| Chemical Composition | Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) | Aluminum silicate (Al2SiO4)(F,OH,O) |
| Crystal Structure | Hexagonal | Orthorhombic |
| Hardness | 9 on the Mohs scale | 8 on the Mohs scale |
| Density | 4.00 g/cm³ | 3.53 g/cm³ |
| Cleavage | None | Perfect in one direction |
| Fracture | Conchoidal | Uneven |
| Refractive Index | 1.778-1.804 | 1.620-1.644 |
| Birefringence | 0.026 | 0.004-0.013 |
| Color | Pale yellow to deep golden | Pale yellow to deep golden, orange, or brown |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | Transparent to translucent |
| Luster | Vitreous to adamantine | Vitreous |
| Fluorescence | Weak to strong | Weak to none |
| Inclusions | Common | Common |
| Price | High | Moderate to low |
As evident from the above-stated comprehensive comparison, yellow sapphire outranks yellow topaz in terms of hardness, density, birefringence, and price. This makes yellow sapphire a more durable and valuable gemstone by leaps and bounds in comparison to yellow topaz. However, yellow topaz offers a more affordable option and can still be a beautiful and eye-catching choice if inculcated properly in different jewelry styles.
Read More: – How To Wear Pukhraj
Yellow Sapphire vs Yellow Topaz: Hardness
When it comes to hardness comparison, an original pukhraj stone is miles ahead of yellow topaz. Yellow sapphire has a Mohs hardness of 9, making it one of the hardest gemstones in existence. Yellow sapphire belongs to the corundum family, composed of aluminum oxide, the same material as ruby. Its high hardness gives it excellent durability for jewelry use.
Yellow topaz has a lower Mohs hardness of 8. It is composed of aluminum silicate fluoride hydroxide, and while still durable for jewelry use, it is softer and more prone to scratching or chipping than yellow sapphire.
The sturdy corundum structure of yellow sapphire makes it very hard and durable. Yellow topaz is moderately hard but not as scratch-resistant. Yellow sapphire’s extra hardness gives it an edge in jewelry durability over yellow topaz. Topaz is still suitable for most jewelry but will require a bit more care.
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Yellow Sapphire vs Yellow Topaz: Astrological Benefits
Yellow sapphire and yellow topaz are both value and scintillating gemstones with their own unique properties and astrological benefits. Let’s go through their astrological benefits one at a time.
Yellow sapphire is a precious gemstone that is associated with the planet Jupiter. It is said to bring wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. It is also believed to enhance creativity, communication skills, and self-confidence. Yellow sapphire is a popular gemstone for people who are seeking to achieve success in their careers or personal lives.
Yellow topaz is a semi-precious gemstone that is associated with the planet Sun. It is said to bring joy, optimism, and abundance. It is also believed to enhance vitality, self-esteem, and creativity. Yellow topaz is a popular gemstone for people who are seeking to improve their mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.
The best gemstone for you will depend on your individual needs and goals. If you are seeking wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune, then yellow sapphire may be a good choice for you. If you are seeking joy, optimism, and abundance, then yellow topaz may be a better choice for you.
It is important to consult with a qualified astrologer to determine if either of these gemstones is right for you. They can help you to understand your astrological chart and recommend the gemstone that is most likely to bring you the benefits that you are seeking.
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Yellow Sapphire vs Yellow Topaz: Price & Popularity
Price:
Yellow sapphires are generally way more expensive and valuable than yellow topaz. A subtle quality 1-carat yellow sapphire can range from $500 to over $10,000 per carat, while a 1-carat yellow topaz typically costs $100 to $300.
Yellow Sapphires are one of the big four precious gems along with diamonds, ruby gemstones, and emeralds, which contributes to their higher price. Topaz is a mildly popular semi-precious stone with narrow implications. Larger yellow sapphires over 5 carats can run into the thousands or tens of thousands per carat due to their scarcity, whereas large topaz is more abundantly available.
Popularity:
Yellow sapphire is often more sought after and valued than yellow topaz, particularly in Asia and European countries. It holds cultural significance in countries like India where it is believed to harness the power of the planet Jupiter. However, yellow Topaz is a better affordable option that is steadily gaining popularity in jewelry. However, sapphire remains more prized among gem collectors and the general public.
Yellow Sapphire’s prestige, mystique, and durability as a precious gem give it wider appreciation and desire. Topaz is appreciated for its beauty but does not command the same reverence.
In summary, yellow sapphire commands a higher price tag and tends to be more popular due to its precious stone status, cultural history, and scarcity compared to the relatively more abundant topaz. But yellow topaz offers an attractive budget-friendly alternative.
Check More: – How to Identify Original Yellow Sapphire
