London Blue Topaz is a beautiful gemstone that has been capturing the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts for many years. It is a member of the topaz family, which includes many other popular gemstones like white topaz, Swiss blue topaz, and mystic topaz.
However, London Blue Topaz stands out from the rest due to its unique color and durability. In this article, we will take a closer look at what London Blue Topaz is and why it is such a popular choice for jewelry.
What Is London Blue Topaz?
London Blue Topaz is a type of natural blue topaz that has been treated to enhance its color. The gemstone gets its name from its vibrant blue hue, which resembles the color of the River Thames in London. The color of London Blue Topaz can range from a deep grayish-blue to an intense teal-blue, depending on how it has been treated.
How Is London Blue Topaz Formed?
Like other types of topaz, London Blue Topaz forms in igneous rocks such as granite and volcanic rocks. It can also be found in alluvial deposits where it has been eroded from its original source rock and transported by water.
Natural blue topaz is quite rare, with most blue topazes being white or pale in color. To create the vivid blue color of London Blue Topaz that we see in jewelry today, the gemstone must be treated with heat and radiation.
How Is London Blue Topaz Treated?
To produce the intense blue hue of London Blue Topaz, the gemstone is exposed to high levels of radiation to change its atomic structure. This process creates color centers within the crystal lattice that absorb certain wavelengths of light and reflect others, resulting in a deep blue hue. After irradiation, the gemstone undergoes heat treatment to stabilize its color and improve its clarity.
Why Is London Blue Topaz So Popular?
There are several reasons why London Blue Topaz is a popular choice for jewelry. Firstly, its unique color is simply stunning.
The deep blue hue of London Blue Topaz is both vibrant and sophisticated, making it a great addition to any jewelry collection. Secondly, the gemstone has excellent hardness and durability, which makes it suitable for everyday wear. Finally, London Blue Topaz is relatively affordable compared to other blue gemstones like sapphires, making it an accessible option for those who love blue-colored jewelry.
Conclusion
London Blue Topaz is a beautiful gemstone that has captured the hearts of many due to its unique color and durability. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or an everyday accessory, London Blue Topaz is a great choice for any occasion. So why not add this stunning gemstone to your jewelry collection today?