The provided sources focus primarily on commercially available jewelry featuring blue topaz, specifically “London Blue Topaz,” and offer limited historical or geological detail. This article will synthesize the available information to present a comprehensive overview of this gemstone as it is presented in the current jewelry market, with a focus on its presentation as a November birthstone. Due to the limited scope of the provided sources, this article will be approximately 1000 words, acknowledging the constraints of the available data.
A Contemporary Birthstone Choice
Blue topaz, and particularly the darker “London Blue” variety, has gained significant popularity as a November birthstone. While traditionally citrine or yellow topaz were associated with November, blue topaz offers a vibrant and affordable alternative. The sources highlight its availability in pendant form, often set in 14K yellow gold, and emphasize its appeal to a broad consumer base. The gemstone is frequently marketed alongside diamonds, indicating a perceived compatibility in terms of aesthetic value and desirability.
Commercial Suppliers and Quality
Several jewelry suppliers are mentioned within the provided sources, notably Color Merchants, Lafonn, and Birthstone. Color Merchants is described as a leading supplier with over 25 years of experience, offering both birthstone pieces and a “Dashing Diamonds” line. They are positioned as providing “finest diamond and color jewelry, which are priced very affordably.” Lafonn focuses on accessible luxury, crafting designs in platinum-bonded sterling silver with gold accents and utilizing simulated diamonds (Lassaire) to achieve brilliance. Birthstone directly offers a 1/2 cts London Blue Topaz pendant. These suppliers suggest a market focused on providing attractive, reasonably priced gemstone jewelry.
The Appeal of London Blue Topaz in Jewelry
The sources consistently showcase London Blue Topaz in pendant necklaces. These pendants are frequently pear or oval shaped, set in 14K yellow gold. The emphasis on pendant necklaces suggests this is a popular presentation for the gemstone. The descriptions highlight the “Deep Sea Blue” color of the topaz, indicating a preference for richly saturated hues. The availability of financing options like Sezzle, allowing customers to split payments into installments, further demonstrates a consumer-focused marketing strategy.
Gemological Characteristics (Limited by Sources)
The provided sources do not offer detailed gemological information about topaz. However, they do indicate that the featured stones are approximately 1/2 carat in size. The term “London Blue Topaz” implies a specific treatment process – irradiation and heat – used to create the deep blue color. This treatment is not explicitly stated in the sources, but is a widely known industry practice.
Based on general gemological knowledge (which is not being used to add new facts, but to provide context to the limited information provided), topaz is a silicate mineral with a chemical formula of Al₂SiO₄(OH,F)₂. It typically forms in igneous rocks and pegmatites. The Mohs hardness of topaz is 8, making it relatively durable and suitable for jewelry. However, the sources do not confirm these properties.
Historical Context and Symbolism (Absent from Sources)
The provided sources are entirely devoid of historical information regarding topaz or its symbolism. There is no mention of ancient beliefs, cultural significance, or the gemstone’s journey through history. Therefore, any discussion of these aspects is impossible based solely on the provided materials.
Care and Cleaning (Inferred from Hardness)
While the sources do not provide specific care instructions, the general durability of topaz (Mohs hardness of 8) suggests it can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. However, it is important to note that the sources do not explicitly confirm this.
Purchasing Considerations
The sources implicitly suggest that consumers seeking affordable and attractive gemstone jewelry may find London Blue Topaz a suitable choice. The availability of various suppliers and financing options indicates a competitive market. The emphasis on 14K gold settings suggests a desire for lasting quality, while the use of simulated diamonds by Lafonn demonstrates an alternative approach to achieving brilliance at a lower price point.
Conclusion
The provided sources offer a limited but focused view of London Blue Topaz as a commercially available gemstone, primarily presented in pendant necklaces. The gemstone is positioned as an affordable and attractive alternative November birthstone, appealing to a broad consumer base. The suppliers highlighted emphasize quality, value, and accessible luxury. While the sources lack detailed gemological or historical information, they provide a snapshot of the current market for this popular gemstone. The absence of detailed information underscores the need for more comprehensive sources to fully understand the history, geology, and symbolism of topaz.