Blue Topaz: A Budget Friendly Gemstone for Rings & Jewelry

Seen Above. From C. Blackburn Jewelers of La Jolla: A pink sapphire and diamond necklace featuring a pendant set with a Swiss Blue topaz cut as a “buff top,” meaning it is faceted underneath like a regular Cushion Cut, but the top is made smooth with no facets, like a Cabochon. 

Blue topaz, with its captivating color, is a budget friendly gemstone often overlooked when considering a custom ring, necklace, or earrings. But at C. Blackburn Jewelers in La Jolla, it is one we often suggest to customers who are looking for a less expensive but no less beautiful colored gemstone.

With a history that spans thousands of years, this lovely gem was prized not only for its beauty but also for its supposed mystical properties. The ancient Egyptians believed that topaz was colored by the glow of the sun god Ra, associating it with divine power and protection. They often fashioned it into amulets and jewelry, believing it could ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to its wearer.

In ancient Greece, blue topaz was thought to have healing properties and was used to enhance strength and improve mental clarity. The Greeks revered the stone and often used it as a talisman. They believed that wearing blue topaz could help one gain the favor of the gods, providing insight and wisdom. The Romans embraced the gemstone, too, incorporating it into their jewelry, wearing it in ornate designs that highlighted its vivid hue and brilliance.

The significance of blue topaz continued into the Middle Ages, where it was often associated with royalty and nobility. Kings and queens adorned themselves with blue topaz jewelry, believing it symbolized power and prestige.

The stone was often set in elaborate gold settings, showcasing its stunning color and enhancing its perceived value. As trade routes expanded, blue topaz found its way into European markets, becoming a popular choice among the upper class for its beauty and association with luxury.

Varieties of Blue Topaz & Mining Locations

Blue topaz is not a single entity; it encompasses various shades and types, each with its own unique characteristics. The most popular varieties include Swiss blue, London blue, and Sky blue topaz.

Swiss blue is known for its bright, vibrant hue, reminiscent of a clear summer sky, while London blue offers a deeper, more intense shade, often with a smoky undertone. Sky blue, on the other hand, presents a softer, paler blue, with a delicate charm that appeals to many ladies in San Diego.

The primary source of blue topaz is Brazil, particularly the state of Minas Gerais. Other notable mining locations include Nigeria, Russia, and the United States, specifically in regions like Texas and Utah. Each of these locations contributes distinct characteristics to the stones, influenced by the geological conditions under which they were formed.

Brazilian blue topaz, for example, is often celebrated for its exceptional clarity and vivid color, making it highly sought after by jewelers. In addition to these countries, blue topaz can also be found in smaller deposits across the globe. Madagascar and Pakistan have emerged as new sources, introducing unique hues and qualities to the market.