According to Colored Stone magazine, the popularity of topaz has grown so much that today this stone is “treading on the heels” of sapphire, which has always been the number one colored stone in the world. Combined with its low price, this makes it popular among both jewelers and jewelry buyers.
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Perhaps, topazes have only one “but”: stones of deep blue color, not to mention blue ones, are almost never found in nature. So how then do topazes come in incredibly beautiful and vibrant shades - Sky Blue, Swiss Blue and London Blue?
Origin story
Swiss topaz
The name Swiss topaz reflects the origin of the stone (“Swiss”). The only area where the purest blue topazes were found was the Swiss Alps. Today, their deposits have dried up, and the likelihood of finding swiss-colored stones is practically reduced to zero.
The demand for blue and blue-colored topazes has given rise to a proposal from gemologists to refine colorless stones and pale-colored crystals. Initially, the minerals were subjected to heat treatment and saturation with blue reagents. This technique did not provide good quality - the samples could turn out dull and lose their natural transparency. It was also not always possible to achieve the desired shade.
Stone deposits
The Ural sources are drying up, but the gem is actively mined in other places. The deposits are located in the south of Transbaikalia, the island of Madagascar and Sri Lanka, Brazil, Zimbabwe, Australia, Germany, and the USA.
In addition, the crystal is produced artificially, growing under special conditions in the laboratory. The process is expensive and takes a long time.
Artificial stone has a greater gloss and is cheaper in cost than natural stone.
Processing process
Currently, the desired shades of Swiss topaz are obtained by irradiation and subsequent heating. Colorless crystals, after exposure to electrons, turn pale blue. To obtain more saturated shades of blue, neutron irradiation is used.
To prevent radiation from dark blue stones, crystals after refining are monitored until the radiation completely disappears. When they hit the shelves of jewelry stores, stones are usually absolutely safe.
Mineral cost
Swiss Blue is a good replacement for expensive aquamarine, sapphire and tanzanite. The richer the shade of the gem, the more expensive it is. Swiss topaz is valued higher than the common blue mineral because it is less common on the market.
When the stone was first introduced, it sold for between $20 and $40 per carat. But the oversupply led to a sharp drop in wholesale prices - down to several dollars per carat. Today, Swiss crystal is found mainly in the mass market, and its price has the greatest influence on sales.
Swiss topaz is one of the most beautiful and famous members of the family. Its price varies from $6 to $15 per carat and above. Swiss Blue's main consumer markets are the USA, Asia and Europe.
Chemical and physical properties
Topaz Swiss trillion
Topaz is an aluminum fluorosilicate formed in granitic pegmatites in close proximity to feldspars and rauchtopazes.
This mineral is characterized by:
- high density and hardness;
- absolute transparency;
- pronounced glass luster;
- microscopic inclusions of other rocks, appearing as reflections of gray shades;
- light refraction effect;
- susceptible to fading when exposed to ultraviolet rays.
Varieties of shades
There are three main varieties of Swiss topaz shades, differing in origin and cost:
- Sky Blu is the lightest blue color and most affordable of all blue topaz varieties. In most cases, these are transparent, colorless crystals, in the depths of which you can see subtle blue reflections. The saturation of the blue tint depends on the admixture of titanium ions in the mineral. Color enhancement can also be achieved through refining.
Topaz Sky Blue
- Swiss Blu - crystals of a more saturated blue color when compared to Sky Blu. Faceted stones are absolutely transparent and have an intense shine. In the structure of crystals that have not been refined, shades of gray can be seen. To achieve a rich blue color, topaz is irradiated. Swiss Blu costs more than Sky Blu.
Topaz Swiss Blue
- London Blu - the bright blue color of this variety of topaz is achieved only through radioactive irradiation. Immediately after refining, London Blu topaz cannot be worn due to the high concentration of radioactive substances in it. The crystal is placed in a lead container, where it is stored until the radiation level returns to normal. The popularity of London Blu topaz is based on the fact that visually it is very similar to cornflower blue sapphire, but its cost is several times lower.
London Blue Topaz
Color spectrum
It is impossible to say definitely what color topaz is. The fact is that the color range of this amazing mineral is incredibly diverse. The most common are yellow crystals. There are also specimens in blue, sky blue, red, and white.
Sometimes a dichroic effect appears in a mineral. Most often this can be seen in blue topaz (it is this effect that gives the stone its magical properties). A blue pebble can become colorless, a turquoise one can become green. Due to these features, topaz crystals can sometimes be confused with aquamarine.
Yellow specimens sometimes take on a brown or orange tint, while pink topaz can turn red or honey-colored.
Gold earrings SL with sapphires, topazes and diamonds (go to the SUNLIGHT catalogue)
Medicinal properties
Swiss-Blue Topaz
Swiss Topaz does not lose its healing properties after refining. It is believed to help cope with health problems such as:
- diabetes;
- decreased immunity;
- obesity;
- diseases of the kidneys, liver, digestive tract;
- headache;
- joint diseases;
- nervous disorders - attacks of aggression, hysteria, panic fear.
A positive effect of blue topazes on the state of the reproductive system has also been noted.
Magic properties
Swiss topaz ring
The main magical purpose of Swiss topaz is to ensure the mental balance of its owner, helping to unite soul and body. The stone eliminates anger, aggression, resentment and anxiety, makes the mind and feelings clear.
It is believed that with the help of blue topaz you can strengthen your talents and abilities, get rid of negative feelings, and aim to achieve your dreams.
The stone helps to establish relationships and find ways of mutual understanding.
It can be used as a talisman against ill-wishers and their evil intentions.
Astrological characteristics
Having figured out what kind of Swiss Topaz stone it is, let's find out who it is most suitable for according to their zodiac sign.
The mineral is more suitable for representatives of the Water element. If possible, Pisces, Scorpios and Cancers should definitely please themselves with such a strong and beautiful talisman. Astrologers believe that this stone was literally created for Scorpios, who are very prone to hot-tempered actions and are quite restless. The energy of the mineral will calm them down and balance their emotional state.
Scorpio girls with blue or gray eyes should definitely take a closer look at jewelry with Swiss topaz. Its color will emphasize the depth and beauty of the eyes, making the image simply charming. For a man of this sign, the stone will help to reveal his inner potential and natural attractiveness. Representatives of this sign who have reached adulthood with the help of a gem will be able to find a path to self-knowledge. The mineral will help in meditation.
How to spot a fake
The authenticity of Swiss topaz is not easy to determine. The most correct way is to conduct a gemological examination using specialized equipment.
You can visually distinguish Swiss from a fake by the following signs:
- the polished surface of topaz is smooth and slippery to the touch;
- on the edges of blue topaz under the rays of the sun you can see the play of shades of gray;
- real topaz is durable, so it cannot be scratched with a needle.
Often, instead of real topaz, you can find an imitation made from refined amethyst or citrine.
Storage and care
With proper storage and care, Swiss topaz will last a long time.
The stone should not be subjected to mechanical stress, since despite its high strength, it can crack under a strong impact.
Swiss blue topaz earrings
Despite the fact that the refining process protects the color of the topaz from fading, it should still be stored away from sunlight, using a box with a tight-fitting lid. It is not recommended to store other jewelry and stones together with topazes of this variety.
Swiss topaz cannot be cleaned with ultrasound. To remove dirt, use a mild soap solution and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Precious or semi-precious?
Is Topaz a precious or semi-precious stone? This question can be heard quite often. Perhaps this interest is explained by the fairly low cost of the crystal or its prevalence. According to experts, this crystal is a semi-precious stone. However, despite this, it is very beautiful and has a huge palette of shades, which makes it very valuable in jewelry. From it, as from precious stones, a lot of exquisite jewelry is made, which even the greats of this world did not disdain to wear.
Swiss Topaz and Zodiac Signs
The patron of topaz is Jupiter. This planet is ruled by Pisces and Sagittarius. Blue topaz is most suitable for representatives of these zodiac signs; they can use it as a talisman of good luck.
The mineral has a beneficial effect on Cancers, Scorpios, Aries, Leo and Virgo, acting as a powerful protector against negative energy.
Blue topaz has a neutral attitude towards Gemini and Taurus. The stone will not harm them, but it will not have the desired effect either.
It is not recommended to wear this mineral for Capricorns, Libra and Aquarius.
Interesting Facts
Various traditions and facts are associated with topaz; since ancient times it was considered a symbol of enlightenment and hope.
For centuries, this crystal was a talisman for sailors - they believed that the gem was able to pacify the raging elements and show the way home.
The couple, who have been married for 16 years, celebrate their topaz wedding. On this day, they give each other jewelry with gems, and the holiday itself is celebrated in the family circle.
Sky Blue has become one of the favorite stones of many celebrities - it can be seen on Charlize Theron, Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Audrey Tautou, Victoria Beckham, Pink.
