Topaz Buying Guide - What factors to look out for when shopping
Color is king when buying any colored gemstone but what else should you consider? Size, shape, price, and clarity are just a few of the features to bear in mind.
Color
As with all colored gemstones, color is the most important factor in evaluating Topaz. Naturally, Topaz is usually colorless, light yellow or brown but can be found in many colors. The most popular and most common is blue - London Blue, Swiss Blue and Sky Blue - due to various treatments. The most expensive color for Topaz is the golden hue of Imperial Topaz. Clear Topaz can make a very affordable substitute for diamonds.
Clarity
Most faceted Topaz gemstones are at least eye-clean - that is no visible inclusions or blemishes within the stone. As it is readily available and quite affordable, there is no need to buy Topaz with poor clarity. Untreated Imperial Topaz may have some inclusions but remains valuable because of its rarity.
Carat
Generally, Topaz is one of the largest gemstones on the world market with examples of over 5 or 10 carats being quite common and found at very reasonable prices. Except for the very rare Imperial Topaz, the price per carat is quite similar no matter how big the carat size.
Cut / Shape
Topaz gemstones of all colors can be found in every type of standard gemstone shape from the common oval, round and pear outlines to the more fancy carvings. The availability of regular supplies and large carat sizes mean cutters are willing to sacrifice material to create the cut and shape they desire.
Jewelry
Topaz is almost the perfect gemstone for jewelry. Lovely bright colors, every cut and shape imaginable, high durability rating and availability in big carat sizes. Ideal for all jewelry items with perhaps eye-catching pendants and striking brooches the most winning pieces.
Treatments
Heat treatments and irradiation has meant that Blue Topaz - Sky Blue, London Blue and Swiss Blue - has become one of the most popular gemstones in the world. Jewelers love the regular supply and consistent colors.
Price
Despite its dazzling looks, Topaz is one of the most reasonably priced gemstones in the world. The blue, pink and white examples can be found in the highest quality for low prices. Imperial Topaz is a rarer and much more expensive gemstone.
| Color | Weight Range | Price Range / ct |
|---|---|---|
|
Sky Blue |
1 - 5ct |
$6 - $7 |
|
Sky Blue |
5ct + |
$6.5 - $9 |
|
Swiss Blue |
1 - 5ct |
$6 - $7 |
|
Swiss Blue |
5ct + |
$7 - $15 |
|
London Blue |
1 - 5ct |
$6 - $10 |
|
London Blue |
5ct + |
$7 - $20 |
|
Imperial |
1ct + |
$500 - $800 |
|
White |
1ct + |
$7 - $10 |
Birthstone
Topaz is the birthstone for November and Blue Topaz is an alternative birthstone for December.
Wedding Gemstone
Topaz is the traditional wedding gift for the 4th anniversary and Imperial Topaz celebrates the 23rd anniversary.
Durability
Topaz is the traditional wedding gift for the 4th anniversary and Imperial Topaz celebrates the 23rd anniversary.
Summary
Topaz is a popular and inexpensive gemstone. For best value look for a bright blue gemstone with excellent clarity in at least 4 or 5 carats in an oval, round or pear shape. For something even more spectacular look at a 20 or 30 carat or even bigger gemstone for a stunning pendant.
|
Color |
Most Common: Blue/Clear Rare: Golden |
|
Clarity |
High / Mostly Eye-Clean |
|
Carat Weight |
Available in Large Weights / Sizes |
|
Cut |
All cuts |
|
Price |
Inexpensive except for Imperial Topaz |
|
Treatments |
Common / Heating, irradiation |
|
Birthstone |
November / December |
|
Wedding Stone |
4th, 23rd |
|
Jewelry |
All Types - Pendants/Brooches especially effective |
|
Durability |
Rated 8 on Mohs Hardness Scale |
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