Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
TO'PAZ. Eze 28:13; Rev 21:20. It seems quite agreed that this was the modern chrysolite, a rather soft and transparent or translucent gem, usually of a pale green. It is also called peridot and olivine. The true topaz is ordinarily- pellucid and of a yellowish tint, but sometimes of a brown, blue, or green hue, or even colorless. A single gem of this kind has been sold (it is said) for upwards of $1,000,000. The finest specimens are found in the
East Indies. The "topaz of Ethiopia," Job 28:19, or Southern Arabia (see Ethiopia), was probably distinguished for its beauty and value. That the most precious stones were once found there profane history asserts.