Blue topaz, recognized as the birthstone for December, is a gemstone celebrated for its serene hue and symbolic associations. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of blue topaz, drawing exclusively from available sources. While information is somewhat limited within the provided materials, a comprehensive overview of this popular gemstone can be constructed.
History and Lore
The association of topaz with December as a birthstone is a relatively modern convention. Sources indicate that the practice of assigning specific gemstones to each month gained prominence in the 19th and 20th centuries, with topaz firmly established as December’s representative. Historically, topaz was often confused with other similar-looking gemstones, such as quartz and citrine.
Blue topaz, specifically, carries symbolism related to love, affection, and emotional connection. One source explicitly states that it embodies “honesty, clarity of feelings, and deep emotional attachment.” It is also believed to possess healing properties, offering the ability to soothe and provide strength and intelligence to the wearer. Another source notes its connection to calmness and loyalty. These attributes contribute to its appeal as a gift and a personal adornment.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation of topaz. However, they do confirm that the blue topaz featured in jewelry is a genuine natural stone, though it may contain inclusions. The sources focus primarily on the finished product – the gemstone as it appears in jewelry – rather than its origins.
The materials indicate that blue topaz is used in jewelry crafted in various locations, including Bath, England, where Honey Willow earrings are handmade. The materials also mention shipping locations to the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, suggesting a global market for topaz jewelry.
Gemological Properties
Blue topaz exhibits several key gemological properties. The sources describe the color as “sky blue” and simply “blue,” with variations occurring naturally within the stones. The teardrop shape is a common cut, as seen in the Vinta earrings, and stones are typically 12mm in size. ALOA Jewelry notes stone sizes ranging from 8-9mm.
Regarding metal settings, the sources highlight the use of gold vermeil, sterling silver, 14k gold-filled, and solid 9k and 18k gold in yellow, white, and rose gold variations. William Edouard offers a matte finish upon request.
The materials do not provide details on the chemical composition, hardness, or refractive index of topaz. However, they do mention that genuine natural blue topaz may have inclusions, indicating it is not a perfectly flawless stone.
Here's a table summarizing the properties mentioned in the sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue, Sky Blue |
| Shape | Teardrop, Round |
| Size | 8-12mm |
| Materials | Gold Vermeil, Sterling Silver, 14k Gold-Filled, 9k/18k Gold |
| Clarity | May contain inclusions |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond the general associations with love and affection, blue topaz is linked to specific metaphysical properties. According to one source, blue zircon (incorrectly stated as topaz in the source) is known to “enhance mental clarity, attract wisdom and sharpen intuition.” This makes it particularly suitable for individuals seeking truth or navigating important life decisions. William Edouard states that the stone symbolizes love, affection, the ability to soothe, heal, and providing strength and intelligence.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of blue topaz jewelry requires gentle care. Hannah May provides specific instructions: jewelry should be gently wiped with a damp cloth and/or polishing cloth before being stored in the provided microsuede pouch. This protects the stone from exposure to elements that can cause tarnishing or damage. It is crucial to ensure the jewelry is completely dry before storage.
Hoop Earrings and Modern Applications
The provided sources primarily focus on blue topaz hoop earrings. These earrings are presented as a popular choice for celebrating December birthdays. The detachable hoop design offered by Honey Willow and Vinta allows for versatility, enabling the wearer to change the style of the earrings. The size of the hoops varies, with ALOA Jewelry offering 11mm hoops and Honey Willow providing 1.5cm (approximately 15mm) hoops.
Sources
Conclusion
Blue topaz stands as a captivating December birthstone, valued for its aesthetic appeal and symbolic meaning. While the provided sources offer a limited scope of information regarding its geological origins and detailed gemological properties, they clearly establish its association with love, clarity, and healing. The popularity of blue topaz hoop earrings demonstrates its enduring appeal in contemporary jewelry design. The gemstone’s relatively simple care requirements ensure that its beauty can be preserved for years to come.