Although topaz is often associated with other colors such as the golden yellow topaz, pink topaz, or even green, it’s also available in blue. Blue topaz is currently one of the most popular stones in the topaz family and it ranges in color from a pale blue with a light tone, to a deep blue with a dark tone.
This gemstone was previously very rare and quite expensive. However, in recent times, mass production has made them more cost-effective.
If these gems fascinate you, keep reading to find out all about them!
What Is Blue Topaz?
Blue topaz consists of aluminium and fluorine. All members of the topaz family have the same mineral composition, it’s just their hue that differs.
Natural blue topaz is rare and hard to find. This has prompted the production of the stone using a treated, colorless topaz. The process involves heating and irradiating the stone until it’s blue. Thus the stone is still considered a topaz, but it has been treated to better display its blue hue.
It’s important to note that although topaz is hardy, you need to handle it with care, as it’s prone to scratches.
How Much Is Blue Topaz Worth?
Back in the day, treated blue topaz had a value of between $20 and $40 a carat. However, as the stone has flooded the market, there is now an excess supply of the gemstone. This has dropped the price to under $1 a carat, making it an incredibly affordable option.
Like all gems, the price of the stone will depend on the carat weight, color, clarity and cut. A smaller stone with minimal inclusions and excellent clarity will be far more valuable than a larger gem with multiple inclusions and poor clarity.
If the price tag on a “real” natural blue topaz seems too good to be true, it more than likely is a manufactured gem.
What Is The Spiritual Meaning Of Blue Topaz?
Blue topaz stone is often associated with love and loyalty. It’s said to represent eternal friendship and deep, long-lasting love.
If you would like to welcome in love and positivity, invest in this natural topaz gem (real or manufactured!). It will assist you on your journey and boost your mood.
Is Treated Blue Topaz Safe?
As blue topaz is usually treated with radiation, many people are concerned about the safety of using and wearing this gemstone. However, rest assured that companies that treat their gemstones with radiation are required to be licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Obtaining a license from the NRC means that the gemstones are stored in a safe and secured facility post-treatment and also continuously monitored till the residual radiation level falls to a safe level. Only then can the treated blue topaz be used for cosmetic purposes like jewelry.
How to Care for Blue Topaz?
Treated blue topaz is unlikely to fade when exposed to light. However, proper care should be given so that the gemstone does not crack or fracture. Despite it being a very hard stone, it can still split with a single hard blow. As such, the gemstone should be well taken care of, ensuring that it does not come into contact heavily such as through knocks. The gemstone should also not be exposed to high heat, and cleaned carefully with just water and warm soap. Other forms of cleaning methods should be avoided.
Who Can Wear Blue Topaz?
Anyone can wear this gem, and it makes a wonderful gift too. Anyone that loves the color blue will definitely love this gemstone. Furthermore, blue topaz is the birthstone for November, so it’s often worn by those who celebrate their birthdays in the 11th month. This makes it a perfect birthday gift for the November babies out there! In addition, tt’s also the traditional stone associated with the 4th wedding anniversary. As such, consider getting a stunning blue topaz jewelry for your wife as a perfect 4th anniversary gift!
How Can You Tell If Blue Topaz Is Real?
Determining if a blue topaz is real can be a tough task. You can perform a scratch test, although this will damage the stone in the event that it’s real, so it’s a risk.
The real stone has a slippery, smooth surface and is cool to the touch. The price tag will also give you an indication of whether it’s real or not. In some cases, you may receive a certificate of authenticity when purchasing jewelry featuring these stones, or you can ask a jeweller to send your stones to a laboratory to determine their authenticity.
Blue Topaz As A Birthstone
As the birthstone for November, blue topaz perfectly conjures up images of a crisp sky blue winter sky.
However, any color topaz can be used to celebrate this month, as the color isn’t specified. Topaz joins citrine, a citrus-colored gem that is also associated with those born in this month.
What Is London Blue Topaz?
The London blue topaz is a dark blue gem, which is darker than the Swiss blue topaz or aquamarine stones. The London blue topaz has all the same qualities of the blue topaz, only the dark blue color it’s famous for has made it the more expensive option as it’s more sought after.
The London blue topaz gemstone is also typically worn to improve communication and help achieve a clearer mind.
What Is Swiss Blue Topaz?
One of the most popular topaz colors is the Swiss blue topaz. The sky blue topaz resembles the color of the sky and varies in shades. It is, however, lighter than the London blue topaz.
The best quality Swiss blue topaz are said to come from Brazil, Siberia and Germany and has grown in popularity due to its resemblance to the aquamarine gemstone.
While the stone has a vivid blue color, the London blue topaz remains the more popular option despite the latter being a tad more expensive. Nevertheless, this stone is ideal for statement pieces that will turn heads, all at an affordable price.
Topaz For Every Season
The blue topaz is a statement stone due to its vibrant color and wide range of available options. You can go for a darker shade of blue and invest in the London blue topaz. Or, you can opt for something lighter but none the less stunning, and look into the Swiss blue topaz.
Whatever stone you choose, you can rest assured that your desired cut and size is available. The blue topaz gemstone is mass-produced to meet the demands of the market, and as it’s such a beautiful gem, this cannot be a bad thing!
Which kind of blue topaz will you go for, the natural blue topaz or the darker ones?