topaz

noun

to·​paz ˈtō-ˌpaz 

1

a

: a mineral that is essentially a silicate of aluminum and usually occurs in orthorhombic translucent or transparent crystals or in white translucent masses

b

: a usually yellow to brownish-yellow transparent mineral topaz used as a gem

c

: a yellow sapphire

d

: a yellow quartz

2

: either of two large brilliantly colored South American hummingbirds (Topaza pella and T. pyra)

Examples of topaz in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Distinguished by pavé diamond settings, these trios included blue chalcedony with blue topaz and milky quartz, and rose and lemon quartz with citrine. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 10 Oct. 2025

On one side is a series of colored gems such as ruby, Australian opal, London blue topaz and labradorite; while the reverse side is paved with diamonds. —Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

One necklace up for auction (estimate: $250,000 to $350,000) demonstrates her knack for creating striking contrasts, with pink topaz set alongside aquamarine, morganite, and diamonds. —Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 8 Sep. 2025

Searches for blue topaz jewelry are nearly 3,000 percent. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 29 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English topace, from Anglo-French, from Latin topazus, from Greek topazos

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing topaz

• fire topaz
• mystic fire topaz
• mystic topaz
• smoky topaz

Rhymes for topaz

• whereas
• as
• has
• jazz

Kids Definition

topaz

noun

to·​paz ˈtō-ˌpaz 

: a mineral in the form of usually yellow to brownish yellow crystals that is valued as a gem