Topaz, An Offbeat Alternative for Blue Engagement Rings

In recent years, blue engagement rings have been steadily rising in popularity as one of the main alternatives to the traditional diamond. The mysterious beauty of gems of this colour makes them a great alternative for an engagement ring, and their relative rarity when compared to diamonds means couples who wear them can affirm their individuality as well.

Traditionally, these types of rings are built around a sapphire or, more rarely, a spinel or a blue emerald. However, there is one other blue-hued stone that fans of blue engagement rings might want to look into: the topaz.

Basically an aluminium silicate, topaz is the hardest of these types of minerals, due to the strong chemical bonds within its core. It is typically found in Sri Lanka, from which it was imported in ancient times by Roman and Egyptian nobles, and in Brazil. In the Middle Ages, it was thought to have powers which would strengthen the mind and prevent sudden death. Other superstitions around it include the supposed power to boil water and cool flaring tempers. In this regard, it is considered a ‘cooling’ stone, the opposite of ‘hot’ stones such as the ruby.

Colour-wise, topazes are not, as most people erroneously think, exclusively yellow. In fact, the vast majority of these stones are actually colourless, but they can run a gamut of colours, ranging from yellow to pale green and smoky brown. Owners of blue engagement rings topped by topazes will also be interested to know that this particular colour is the result of irradiation. Those shopping for a brown or smoky topaz, on the other hand, should beware, as this stone is often confused with smoky quartz or knowingly sold as such by dishonest jewellers. Also take note that this colour is not stable, and may fade over time, making it one of the least appropriate hues of topaz to use in jewellery.

As far as its properties are concerned, topaz’s main strength lies in its hardness, which achieves an 8 out of 10 on the scale used by specialists. As a result, this stone is extremely durable, making it a perfect choice for couples wanting as little hassle as possible with their yellow or blue engagement rings.

In short, topaz is yet another in the long list of stones possibly set to dethrone the diamond as the ‘king’ of engagement rings in the near future. At present, this stone is closer to other lesser-known gems such as tourmalines and spinels, but there is no reason why that paradigm should not change in the near future.

Frank L Orman is the founder of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From blue engagement rings to princess cuts and engraved bands, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.