Introduction
Blue gemstones are known for their beauty and have long ruled the hearts of gemstone fans all across the globe. Blue Topaz and Aquamarine always stand out and are considered two of the most popular blue gemstones, but they also share similar appearance. You may ask how to differentiate between them, for this one needs to understand the difference between these two gemstones, which is this blog's topic.
Understanding Blue Topaz and Aquamarine
The blue variety of topaz is one of the most popular gemstones because of its stunning appearance. Out of all the varieties the blue topaz is one of the most popular alternatives to blue sapphire. However, natural blue topaz stones are usually a lot rarer that’s why most blue topaz gemstones available in the market undergo treatments to achieve their brilliant colors. The colorless variety of topaz ranges from colors such as soft sky blue and even deepens even further toward the famed Swiss blue.
Aquamarine is a member of the Beryl family and is the most popular due to its breathtaking sea-blue colors. It gets its name from the Latin words aqua (water) and marina (sea). It also has stunning clarity and is known for having few inclusions such as minimal impurities making them the most popular stone sought by jewelers, collectors, and fans of aquamarine.
To understand the difference at a granular label, let's discuss each of their properties in detail in the following table:
| Attributes |
Blue Topaz |
Aquamarine |
| Symbolism |
Linked with communication and reasoning, it is believed to emit favorable energies and draw good fortune. |
It represents peace, and unwavering strength, and is known to safeguard seamen and encourage serenity. |
| Formation and Composition |
The bluish color is due to the heat treatment and pale or colorless topaz irradiation. Topaz is composed of aluminum and Fluorine. Thus, its chemical formula would be Al₂SiO₄(F, OH)₂. Blue topaz is present in pegmatitic granite and rhyolitic lava flows and is formed by Fluorine vapors in igneous rock cavities.1
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Aquamarine is classified as beryl having a chemical notation of Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈. The blue color stems from iron (Fe²⁺and Fe³⁺) traces of iron. It forms in pegmatitic granite veins and metamorphic rocks. It forms when beryllium-rich fluids interact with aluminum and silica under high pressure and temperature.2
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| Visual Characteristics |
These gemstones include a shade of blue known as blue chalcedony, which ranges from sky blue, chambray blue, and light blue to Swiss Blue and London Blue. Blue Chalcedony is typically an eye-clean gem, which means there are no visible inclusions; it is translucent to transparent and has a refractive index of 1.609 and 1.643, considered moderately brilliant. |
Aquamarine ranges from light blue to bluish-green, with more valuable stones having a deeper, pure blue hue and may also contain inclusions like liquid-filled tubes. Aquamarine stones are also transparent or translucent. It has a hexagonal system of crystallization, forming well-defined hexagonal crystals. Its specific gravity is 1.564 - 1.596, which is lower than that of blue topaz. |
| Geographical Origin |
These are sourced from Brazil, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka. As discussed above, the natural blue varieties are raree. |
Sourced from countries like Brazil, Nigeria, Madagascar, and Afghanistan, these often have high clarity and minimal inclusions. |
| Color |
Typically has vibrant blue tones that are achieved through treatment. The natural blue topaz is rare. |
It has a pale blue to greenish-blue tones, much like the tranquillity of the ocean. |
| Hardness |
Rated 8 on Mohs scale, indicating strong resistance to daily wear and tear, making it perfect for everyday use. |
These have a Mohs rating between 7.5 and 8, meaning they are soft. While still suitable for everyday use, they will require careful handling. |
| Specific Gravity |
Blue Topaz has a specific gravity of 3.49 – 3.57; due to its higher specific gravity, it is denser than aquamarine. |
Aquamarine's specific gravity ranges from 2.68 to 2.80. Because of its beryl composition, it is lighter and has a lower specific gravity. |
| Metaphysical Property |
It has a Throat Chakra (enhances communication and self-expression) and Aids in mental clarity, focus, and emotional balance, encouraging truth, wisdom, and creativity. |
Additionally, it aids in calming feelings, relieving stress, fostering compassion, encouraging positive self-talk, and promoting inner peace. It also has Heart Chakra (promotes love and harmony) & Throat Chakra (enhances communication) healing properties. |
| Birthstone |
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius & Scorpio. |
Zodiac Sign: Gemini, Pisces, Aries
|
| Common Treatments |
Untreated blue topaz is very rare in the market. Typically, it is treated with irradiation to enhance or achieve its deep blue color. |
Typically, heat is applied to improve color; treatments are permanent and accepted in the trade. |
| Price And Value |
It is usually more cost-effective because there is a large supply of treated stones; it provides a low-cost avenue for purchasing blue gemstone jewelry. |
They are usually costlier, particularly for stones with full color and high clarity, distinguished for their extraordinary beauty and scarcity. |
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Conclusion:
When choosing between Blue Topaz and Aquamarine, you have to consider factors such as color preference, budget, and its symbolic meanings. Blue Topaz is available in more vibrant colors and at a more affordable price point, making it ideal for those looking for a stunning jewelry without a significant investment. With its natural pastel tones and historical significance, Aquamarine appeals to those who appreciate subtle elegance and are ready to invest in enduring-value gemstones.
Ultimately, both gemstones offer unique charms at different prices, allowing you to select one that resonates with your style and preferences.
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