Brown Topaz is an affordable gemstone, and it has become popular in jewelry. Since it is very common and often lacking flaws, small Brown Topaz gemstones are rarely encountered. In fact, gemstones can reach several hundred carats with minimal flaws. The color of Brown Topaz is thought to be caused by the natural irradiation of Topaz. Brown Topaz is an important brown gemstone and is used in various forms of jewelry. It is especially used as a ring and pendant centerpiece. Lesser quality stones, often with a lighter color, are cut as cabochons or tumbled into beads. Large spheres and carvings are also cut from Brown Topaz. Brown Topaz is found throughout the world. Important deposits exist in Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, Australia, Switzerland, Scotland, and the United States. The popularity of brown topaz rises and falls with fashion. Recently it has been very popular as a gemstone for its earthy tone and tribal look. Since it is quite inexpensive and easily found in large sizes, it is popular for use as pendants. It can sometimes be found fashioned into innovative faceted cuts, as well as in cabochons and carvings. Throughout history, brown topaz was the material used for the crystal balls of fortune-tellers; and some of the mystique of this distinctive topaz seems to persist to this day.