Topaz Mountain
Topaz Mountain is popular for it high concentration of topaz minerals. Most of the rock is white Rhyolite and contains various minerals such as Sherry Topaz, cubed Bixbyite, flakes of Hematite, Pseudo-Brookite needles, Garnets and Red Beryl. Topaz is Utah's state gem. It is a semiprecious gemstone that is very hard, with transparent crystals in a variety of colors. The topaz crystals are naturally amber colored, but become colorless after exposure to sunlight. The crystals formed within cracks and openings of the Topaz Mountain's Rhyolite, a volcanic rock which erupted around six to seven million years ago (Tertiary Period) from volcanic vents along faults in the area.
The BLM has set up an area specifically for rockhounding. Topaz can be spotted best during the day when the sun is out. Some prospectors use screens to filter dirt out from the topaz.
Many areas are over worked and little topaz is left. Those who take time to hike off the beaten path usually succeed in greater amounts and higher qualities of topaz. Topaz is amber colored until it is exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. The more amber the topaz, the more valuable it is.
Requirements
High Clearance Vehicle if traveling deep into the canyon.
Extra Water - Very Dry area.
Rock Hounding Gear - Hammers, chisels, prybar, etc.
Location
Topaz mountain is located in the Thomas Range about 40 miles west of Lynndyl. A high clearance vehicle is recommend. The best way to get there is to turn right off highway 6 a few miles past Lynndyl onto the IPP power plant road. It's paved all the way until the turnoff.
39.709390° -113.103304° @6500'
