Is London Blue Topaz Created?

By Michael Ferguson

London Blue Topaz is a popular gemstone that has been gaining attention in the world of jewelry. It is a beautiful gemstone that has a unique and captivating blue hue, making it a sought-after choice for jewelry designers and enthusiasts. However, many people are curious about whether London Blue Topaz is created or natural.

What is London Blue Topaz?

Before we dive into the topic of whether London Blue Topaz is created, let’s first understand what this gemstone is all about. London Blue Topaz is a type of topaz that has a deep blue color with hints of green and gray. It belongs to the family of silicate minerals and has a chemical composition of Al2SiO4(F,OH)2.

This gemstone is known for its hardness and durability, making it ideal for use in jewelry. Its color ranges from pale blue to dark blue, with London Blue being the darkest shade available.

Is London Blue Topaz Created?

The answer to this question is yes – London Blue Topaz is created through a process called irradiation. This process involves exposing natural colorless or light-colored topaz to high-energy radiation, which alters the crystal structure of the stone and creates deep blue hues.

After irradiation, the stone may undergo heat treatment to stabilize its color and improve its clarity. This treatment involves heating the gemstone at high temperatures to remove any unwanted discolorations or inclusions.

The Benefits of Created London Blue Topaz

While some may prefer natural gemstones over created ones, there are several benefits to choosing created London Blue Topaz:

  • Affordability: Created London Blue Topaz is generally less expensive than natural ones due to their availability.
  • Consistency: Created stones have more consistent colors than natural ones since they are produced under controlled conditions.
  • Durability: Created London Blue Topaz is just as durable and hard as natural ones, making them ideal for use in jewelry that will be worn frequently.

How to Care for London Blue Topaz

Whether your London Blue Topaz is created or natural, it is important to take proper care of it to ensure its longevity and beauty. Here are some tips for caring for your gemstone:

  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid exposing your gemstone to harsh chemicals such as chlorine, bleach, and other cleaning agents.
  • Store properly: Store your London Blue Topaz separately from other jewelry pieces in a soft cloth or pouch to prevent scratches and damage.
  • Clean regularly: Clean your gemstone regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap and water solution.

In Conclusion

London Blue Topaz is a stunning gemstone that can be created through irradiation. While some may prefer natural gemstones, created London Blue Topaz offers several benefits such as affordability and consistency. Whether you have a natural or created stone, taking proper care of it is crucial to maintain its beauty and longevity.