Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Key Differences You Need to Know

Have you ever been drawn to the stunning blue color of topaz and aquamarine? These two gemstones are beloved for their stunning blue color and are often confused by people. Although they are similar in appearance, there are many differences in reality. This article will lift the veil on blue topaz and aquamarine and give you an insight into the difference between aquamarine and blue topaz.

What is Topaz?

Topaz is a beautiful and versatile gemstone. It is a silicate mineral of aluminum and fluorine, and its chemical formula is Al2SiO4(F, OH)2. Topaz has striking colors, ranging from colorless to various shades of blue, green, yellow, pink, and red. The most common colors of topaz are yellow, gold, and blue.

Topaz is formed in granitic pegmatites and high-temperature hydrothermal veins. It is found in many countries, including Brazil, Russia, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and the United States. It can be found in crystal form, often faceted to enhance its brilliance and sparkle, or in opaque form, often used for carving and ornamental purposes.

Interesting Facts About Topaz:

1. The name "topaz" is thought to be derived from the Greek island of Topazos, where the ancient Greeks believed topaz was found. However, the topaz of the ancients was probably chrysolite (peridot).   
2. London Blue Topaz is a special type of blue topaz known for its deep, intense blue color, reminiscent of the dark waters of the Thames River in London, hence the name "London Blue".
3. Topaz can be heat treated to change its color. For example, colorless topaz can be heated to produce yellow or pink topaz.
4. Topaz is the November birthstone, as is citrine. The December birthstone, however, is blue topaz.

What is Aquamarine?

Aquamarine is a beautiful gemstone, belonging to the beryl mineral family with the chemical formula Be3Al2Si6O18. The beryl mineral family includes gemstones such as emerald and morganite. It is known for its beautiful pale blue to light green color, reminiscent of the sea.

Aquamarine forms in granitic pegmatites and is often found with other beryl varieties such as emeralds. It can be found in several locations, including Brazil, Madagascar, Nigeria, Afghanistan, and the United States.

Interesting Facts About Aquamarine:

1. The name "aquamarine" is derived from the Latin words for "water" and "sea," reflecting the gemstone's oceanic hues.
2. The blue color of aquamarine can be intensified by heat treatment.
3. Aquamarine is the March birthstone.

Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: What's the Difference?

Blue topaz and aquamarine are two stunning gemstones that often share the spotlight for their captivating blue hues. While they may look similar at first glance, these gems have distinct characteristics that set them apart.

Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Color

Blue topaz has a wide range of blue hues, from pale sky blue to deep London blue, and electric blue. Its color intensity can also be enhanced through irradiation and heating.

Aquamarine is typically a serene, light blue-green color reminiscent of the ocean, prized for its calm and soothing hue. Traces of iron often affect its color intensity.

Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Clarity

Both blue topaz and aquamarine have a high degree of clarity and transparency. They are transparent to translucent, allowing light to pass through and reveal beautiful colors and clarity. Both can be found in high-quality, eye-clean specimens. However, Aquamarine is usually found in a smaller size, which tends to have slightly better clarity than blue topaz.

Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Durability

Blue topaz is a silicate mineral. It's a relatively hard gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 8. It's quite durable and scratch-resistant, making blue topaz suitable for use in various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. London blue topaz ring is one of the popular jewelry.

Aquamarine, on the other hand, is fairly hard but still slightly softer than topaz, with a Mohs hardness of 7.5-8. It is durable enough and suitable for daily use and various jewelry pieces, including aquamarine rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Price

In general, Aquamarine is more expensive than Blue Topaz, especially for high-quality, larger stones. Aquamarine's blue color is naturally occurring compared to Blue Topaz. Another reason is that Aquamarine is less common than Blue Topaz. But certain varieties, such as London blue topaz or deeper blue aquamarine, can be more expensive. If you want a large, but inexpensive gemstone as the main stone of your engagement ring, blue topaz is the best choice compared to aquamarine. However, if you prefer a smaller size and a more valuable gemstone, aquamarine is your choice.

Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Symbolism

Blue topaz and aquamarine, both known for their stunning blue color, are beloved by people. Although they are similar in appearance, they have their unique connotation in symbolic meaning. Here are some of the symbolic meanings associated with each gemstone:

Blue Topaz

• Communication and self-expression: The blue hue of topaz is often associated with the throat chakra. It is believed to promote honesty, truthfulness, and clear communication in relationships.   
• Truth and Wisdom: Blue topaz symbolizes honesty, integrity, and wisdom. It's thought to help one discern truth from falsehood.   
• Calm and Focus: The soothing blue color of topaz is believed to promote calmness, reduce stress, bring inner peace, and improve concentration.   

Aquamarine

• Calming and Soothing: Aquamarine's oceanic hue is associated with peace, tranquility, and emotional balance.   
• Protection and Luck: It is often considered a stone of courage and empowerment, helping the wearer to overcome fears and obstacles.   
• Love and Happiness: Aquamarine is often associated with love, happiness, and fidelity. It is believed to strengthen relationships and promote emotional balance and harmony.

Although blue topaz and aquamarine are both known for their striking blue color, the symbolism they represent is different. Blue Topaz focuses more on communication, wisdom, and personal growth, while Aquamarine emphasizes serenity, love, and relationships.

Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Birthstone & Anniversary

Blue Topaz is one of the modern birthstones for December and is believed to symbolize truth, wisdom, courage, and communication. It is also considered the gemstone for the 4th wedding anniversary. It is associated with mental clarity, creative inspiration, and emotional balance. The blue color of Blue Topaz is said to represent the sky and the sea, evoking a sense of peace, tranquility, and serenity.

Aquamarine is the traditional birthstone for March and is believed to symbolize courage, hope, protection, and good fortune. It is considered the gemstone for the 19th wedding anniversary. It is associated with clarity of mind, intuition, and insight. The blue-green color of aquamarine is said to represent the ocean and the sky, symbolizing clarity, purity, and harmony.

Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine

Shop Juyoyo Jewelry Blue Topaz & Aquamarine Favorites

Blue Topaz Rings

Oval-Cut London Blue Topaz and Diamond Ring Twisted Engagement Ring 14K Rose Gold	Oval-Cut London Blue Topaz Engagement Ring Set Vintage Twisted Wedding Band Rose Gold	Marquise-Cut London Blue Topaz Ring White Gold Wedding Band	Marquise-Cut London Blue Topaz White Gold Stacking Eternity Wedding Band

 

Aquamarine Rings

Juyoyo Twisted Oval Aquamarine Engagement Ring with Diamond Accent	Round Aquamarine Engagement Ring with Diamond & Aquamarine Cluster Ring	Baguette Cut Aquamarine Wedding Band March Birthstone Gift