What does a topaz's "Melee Attackers take x damage per hit" modifier do?

Question

I noticed that the topaz has a modifier when socketed into a weapon that reads Melee attackers take x damage per hit

What exactly does this mean? Does it mean that I take the damage when using melee attacks or that opponents who attack me with melee attacks take damage (ala Thorns)?

Answer 1

It's a thorns effect. Every time you're hit by a melee attack, the offending servant of darkness will take X damage as a rebuke for daring to strike your most august personage.

In fact, if you look at the detailed breakdown of your defenses in your character sheet, it's even listed as 'Thorns' there.

Answer 2

This would be just like thorns; if a monster attacks you from melee range, they would take the damage listed. If you have more than one item with this property, they will accumulate to provide a set amount of damage whenever you get hit.

Answer 3

Yes it is like Thorns.

Note that it says "attackERS" not "attacks" .. meaning it is a reflect damage of sorts.