American Golden Topaz

The American Golden Topaz, a 172-faceted topaz weighing 22,892.5 carats (4.5785 kg), is the largest cut yellow topaz in the world, and one of the largest faceted gems of any type in the world. Originating from Minas Gerais, Brazil, it was cut by Leon Agee over a period of two years from an 11.8 kg (26 lb avdp) stream-rounded cobble. It was purchased by Rockhound Hobbyists of America and presented to the Smithsonian Institution in 1988 and is displayed in the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C..