London Blue Topaz: Gemstone and Jewelry

London Blue Topaz is a beautiful gemstone that has captured the hearts of many jewel enthusiasts around the world. It's a rare type of Topaz that is distinguished by its striking deep blue color and exceptional sparkle, beauty, and clarity. The name "London Blue" was coined from the rich, moody, and enduring blue color that is reminiscent of the rich hues of a rainy day in London. London Blue Topaz is a prized gemstone that has gained popularity in the gemstone and jewelry industry over the years due to its beauty, rarity, and affordability. Let us delve into the history of this gemstone, its properties, and its significance in the world of jewelry.

The History of London Blue Topaz: 

London Blue Topaz is a relatively new gemstone that has been in the market for a few decades. It is a variation of Topaz, which is one of the most abundant minerals on earth and has been used for centuries in jewelry-making. Topaz has been famous for centuries in Europe and Asia, and it has been adorned by royalty and nobility.

The ancient Greeks believed that Topaz had mystical powers and could provide protection to its wearers while the ancient Egyptians believed that it protected against harm and injuries. The blue variety of Topaz was rare, and it is believed to have been first discovered in the early 18th century in Germany.

In the 1960s, London Blue Topaz was discovered in Brazil through a process called "treatment." By applying heat and radiation, the natural color of the blue Topaz could be altered to give it a deep blue hue. The heat treatment process exposed the gemstone's natural earth tones, enhancing their beauty and clarity.

The discovery of London Blue Topaz in Brazil sparked a revolution in the gemstone industry, and it became one of the most sought-after stones worldwide. Nowadays, London Blue Topaz can be found in various parts of the world, including the USA, Sri Lanka, and Mexico.

Properties and Characteristics of London Blue Topaz:

London Blue Topaz is a type of Topaz that is composed of aluminum, silica, and fluorine. It's an orthorhombic crystal which means it has a three-axis, unequal system of axes and angles. The gemstone has a Mohs hardness of eight, making it a durable gemstone suitable for daily wear.

The gemstone is also non-reactive to acids and chemicals and has a specific gravity of 3.49 to 3.57. The gemstone's refractive index is typically 1.610 to 1.630, and it has a strong birefringence. London Blue Topaz is renowned for its striking deep blue to indigo color that is reminiscent of a moody and rainy day in London. The gemstone's color ranges from light to dark blue, with the latter being the most valuable. The color is due to the presence of iron and other trace elements in the gemstone.

The gemstone is also known for its transparency and luster, which showcases its full beauty when it's exposed to light. The gemstone's cut and faceting directly influence its beauty, and it's commonly cut into round, pear, oval, emerald, and princess shapes. A well-cut London Blue Topaz is stunning and elegant, and it can rival other more expensive gemstones like sapphires and aquamarines.

The Significance of London Blue Topaz in Jewelry: 

London Blue Topaz has gained popularity in the jewelry industry due to its beauty, rarity, and affordability. The gemstone is versatile and can be used to create stunning, unique, and timeless jewelry pieces that can be worn both for formal and casual occasions. London Blue Topaz is commonly set in 14k or 18k gold or sterling silver to complement its deep blue color. The gemstone is also used to create intricate jewelry designs like necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings.

When combined with other gemstones like diamonds, blue sapphires, and emeralds, London Blue Topaz can create jewelry pieces that are unmistakably elegant and timeless. One of the most significant advantages of London Blue Topaz is its affordability when compared to other gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds. As a result, it has become a popular choice for those who want something beautiful and unique without breaking the bank.

London Blue Topaz is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and unique gemstones in the world. Its striking deep blue color, paired with its versatility, durability, and affordability, has made it a popular choice for both jewelry lovers and designers. Its rich history, unique properties, and exceptional beauty make it an excellent addition to any jewelry collection. Whether used as an engagement ring, a statement necklace, or a simple pair of earrings, London Blue Topaz is a perfect choice for anyone looking for something sophisticated and elegant.