Topaz - Colors, quality and care

Topaz is one of those stones that can cover so many needs - from clear and subtle to blue, golden or more warm-toned. It is often chosen because it looks "clean" and exclusive in jewelry and because it offers a lot of color and shine for the money. At the same time, there's one thing worth knowing right away: much of the blue topaz on the market is treated to get its color, and this is perfectly normal.

What is topaz?

Topaz is a natural mineral that is used as a gemstone - typically faceted because it can have a nice, clear shine. Topaz comes in several colors, but in jewelry you'll find clear and blue varieties. The color can be natural, but in practice, blue topaz is often the result of treatment to make the shade more distinct and uniform.

Topaz fits in well:

rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets
faceted grinds (for maximum clarity and sparkle)
more classic, clean designs where the stone is left alone

Colors and expressions

Topaz is not one color - it's almost a whole palette. This is also why people can get confused when shopping for topaz online.

The most common topaz looks in jewelry:

Clear topaz: looks like a very clear, neutral stone and is often used as an affordable alternative to the "clear stone" look.
Blue topaz: typically found in three "trade names":
- Sky Blue (light and lightweight)
- Swiss Blue (more intense, bright blue)
- London Blue (darker, often more "petrol"/deep)
Yellow/golden topaz: warm tone, but less often seen than blue in modern jewelry.
Pink/peach (imperial): rarer and often more exclusive.

What makes topaz beautiful is often its clarity. It can look very clean in both daylight and indoor light, especially when sanded well.

Quality: what makes a topaz really beautiful?

Topaz is judged mainly on color, clarity and cut - and whether you like the stone's "tone" in person.

Color: If you're going for blue topaz, it's all about finding the shade that suits your style. Light blue can be very Nordic and subtle, while London Blue gives a more dramatic look. Even color without "spots" often looks most exclusive.

Clarity: Topaz can be very clear. A stone that looks clean in normal light typically feels more luxurious - especially in facets.

Grinding: A good cut is everything for topaz. It needs to catch the light and bring it to life. If the cut is flat or unbalanced, the stone can look "dead" even if the color is good.

Treatment: the most important things to know about blue topaz

Blue topaz in jewelry is often treated to get its color (it's standard in the industry). This doesn't make the stone "fake", but it does explain why blue topaz can be so uniform in color - and why you often see the same shades over and over again.

If you have customers who care, it's good to be clear: "blue topaz is usually color treated" - and then you can still emphasize that the result is a beautiful, stable color for everyday jewelry.

Topaz vs. other stones (aquamarine and blue sapphire)

Blue topaz is often compared to other blue stones because they can overlap in color.

Aquamarine: often more "ocean-like" and naturally soft in tone, but can be more expensive in stronger blue colors.
Blue sapphire: typically deeper and more "intense" like gemstones, but in a completely different price range.
Blue chalcedony: more milky and soft in expression, without the clear faceted shine.

Topas stands out by being very clear and often very "clean" in look.

Caring for topaz

Topaz is generally a stone that can withstand use, but it can still get scratches or small nicks if it gets bumped - especially in rings.

For daily use: remove it for sports, cleaning, showering and swimming. Avoid spraying perfume and hairspray directly on the stone and keep it away from strong detergents.

Cleaning: lukewarm water, mild soap, a soft cloth and possibly a soft brush at the socket. Rinse gently and dry completely. Ultrasonic/steam can be okay in some cases, but it depends a lot on the socket - and to be on the safe side, mild hand cleaner is often best.

Store topaz separately so it doesn't get scratched by harder jewelry.

Styling: when does topaz work best?

Topaz is ideal if you want a "clean" and elegant look.

Silver/rhodium plated: makes blue topaz look ice cold and modern.
Gold plated/gold: provides warmth and can make blue topaz more deep and soft luxury.
Together with clear stones/beads: keeps the look light and classic.