Topaz is colorless mineral, but when treated with gamma irradiation it turns blue, and becomes a hot commodity on the gem market
IUPAC name:
Aluminium hydroxide fluoride silicate
Layman's explanation:
Topaz is a common mineral whose name originates from the island of Topazos which is now known as Zabarget, located in the Red Sea. The majority of natural topaz is colorless although in some instances it can be wine yellow or pale blue. The electric blue topaz that is often found on the gem market is produced by exposing the colorless stone to gamma irradiation treatments. Crystals are found in various sizes, some reaching as much as 595 pounds!
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