What is London Blue topaz - is it a natural stone?

Name as a brand

London Blue Topaz is one of the few minerals whose name is associated with the capital of the state. Where did it come from? There are two versions:

• blue topazes first acquired their signature color in a laboratory in the British capital;
• That’s what its “parents”—Londoners—called the stone.

In any case, the coloring is unique and is truly associated with the evening sky over Foggy Albion, hidden behind a haze.

The warmth of sunlight discolors it, but the darkness cools it, returning the stone to its original color.

The discussion about the naturalness of the London blue species revolves around the question of whether such minerals exist in nature at all or whether “London blue” is a completely man-made product. Collections and museum displays contain topazes that roughly match London blue in color.

But the term and color standard appeared after the creation of specially colored topazes and became attached to the stones as a trade and commercial brand. Among jewelers, the term London blue always means processed, that is, irradiated stones. This name does not apply to natural ones.

Birth of a talisman

Colorless topazes are not rare rocks. They are mined in many parts of the world, including Russia. However, stones with a rich blue tint are mainly found abroad. They owe their palette to radiation exposure - the higher the dose, the darker the color. This feature allows you to get all shades of blue - from soft blue to almost inky, with dark sparkles in depth.

After exposure to neutrons, the crystals are stored in a lead container for at least a year until they stop “phoning” and only then are they used for jewelry.

For the first time, the system of exposure to radiation on a colorless crystal was tested by scientists from one of the London laboratories, which is where the name of the stone came from. However, many believe that topaz got its name for its resemblance to the sky over the British capital.

Those who are suitable for the London topaz stone know that the unusual color of this type of gem matches perfectly with silver. Although some jewelers successfully weave it into a gold frame. Finely executed work is no different from products with precious stones, which is why many people prefer to buy jewelry with topaz.

Cold colors (blue stone and white metal) look great on blondes and brunettes. Red-haired girls and owners of chestnut curls willingly buy jewelry in warm colors.

It is better to store jewelry with the mineral in a dark place - in bright sunlight, the crystal lattice is destroyed, and topaz loses its magical hue, becomes cloudy and not so attractive.

Color is the main exclusive feature of the stone

London blue translated from English means “London blue”. When applied to topaz, it is more accurate to talk about a dark, gray or smoky blue color. Pure blue or light blue is not typical for real topaz. Just like the brightness - the color of even a transparent stone in English is discreet, restrained. The deep blue color, complemented by a well-defined gray tint, is an invaluable quality of the stone. This is a unique characteristic; there are no other gems with this shade. The blue-gray background of the mineral is enriched by olive and greenish tints.

The color of the mineral is limited - thick blue, turning into black.

At the everyday level, London blue is confused with stones of the Swiss blue and Sky blue types, which means “Swiss blue” and “Sky blue”. But these are minerals of different saturation, and London occupies a golden mean between them. The Swiss variety has a thicker, richer background. Sky blue, as the name implies, is more “sparse.”

Variety and color

London topaz comes in only one color - dark blue.

However, it is obtained from the following varieties of semi-precious stones.

1. Pink. Specimens with a light pink color are rarely found in nature. But a faint tint is not uncommon. The color of the mineral is due to the admixture of manganese.
2. Blue. This shade is given by oxygen atoms. Most often, such gems are refined.
3. White. Transparent specimens are often found in nature. They do not include impurities of other substances. Such specimens are of no value, so they are often used to make fine topaz.
4. Yellow. Color varies from light yellow to brown. Such shades are due to the absence of fluorine atoms in the crystal lattice.
5. Smoky. It owes its gray tint to the admixture of oxygen ions and silicon dioxide.

How do you get London Blue?

The uniqueness of the London variety is that the deep blue color is created not by impurities, but by human intervention.

In nature, deep blue topaz is a very rare stone. Therefore, most blue or grayish crystals are further processed to achieve a truly “London” color. They are intensively irradiated, “bombarded” with neutrons.

Treated stones are stored in special compartments until the radiation level drops to natural levels, usually at least a year. After this, a strict security check begins. Only then do the crystals go to jewelers and everyone else. Therefore, consumers should not worry that the stone is radioactive and harmful to health.

London topaz is described as “ink” or “steel”. The depth and saturation of the color of the processed stone depend on the duration of exposure - the longer, the more “inkiness” to the detriment of the steel.

Extreme manifestations are Maxy Blue topazes. They are irradiated more than others, as a result of which they acquire a black-blue background with a sparkling dark green core. The coloring turns out mystical, but you have to pay for it.

A prolonged neutron “shower” creates persistent secondary radioactivity of the stone, the disappearance of which takes several times longer than after experiments with ordinary stones.

It is not economically profitable to produce such crystals, so Maxy Blue has become a special rare variety of London topaz.

Description and origin

The name London Blue refers to the origin and color of the stone. The unique blue color was obtained in a London laboratory; it is often compared to the sky of the British capital. To obtain it, the mineral is exposed to neutrons.

This treatment means radiation. To reduce its level to normal, treated stones are placed in special lead containers for at least a year. Jewelers receive blue mineral only after carefully checking its safety. This gives craftsmen, sellers and consumers a guarantee that contact with processed topaz will not cause harm to health.

Mystical effects of stone

It is believed that the mineral gives the owner calmness and restraint. The owner of the stone becomes reasonable and philosophical. This gives him a reputation as a sage for whom nothing is impossible. This has been the case since ancient times. But even today the magical properties of the stone have not weakened:

1. Psychics and magicians practice rituals of restoring justice with Maxi Blue. They eliminate customer problems by attracting lost luck.
2. The owner of a pendant with a London crystal is protected from dark forces and evil people.
3. Jewelry gives superpowers in the form of intuition, clairvoyance, and invulnerability.
4. London provides a brilliant career, luck in business, and financial prosperity.
5. Topaz tells you what to do in an ambiguous situation, expose intrigues, and unravel mysteries.
6. Under the influence of the London Crystal, people obey its master.

In the East, blue topaz is recognized as a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment.

Magic properties

Topaz stone is endowed with considerable magical properties. The main gift of the mineral to its owner is endurance, measured thought and calmness. Therefore, the semi-precious gem is recommended to be worn by hot-tempered and eccentric people. Owners of blue stone awaken a penchant for wise thinking. In addition, the London crystal has such a magical effect on a person’s life:

• protects from the eye of an ill-wisher;
• awakens the power of foresight;
• reveals intuitive abilities;
• makes a person invulnerable in the face of trouble;
• helps to reveal intrigues;
• subjugates those around him to his owner.

Medicinal qualities of topaz London

The energy of the mineral is effective in several areas.

Reproductive health

Topaz is astrally connected with the Moon, the patroness of the feminine principle. Therefore, the meaning of the stone is more noticeable for the fair half. They are guaranteed healthy, intelligent offspring, trouble-free pregnancy and easy childbirth. For men, the mineral helps improve potency.

Psychological complex

A pendant or pendant with a dark blue stone comprehensively strengthens the nervous system: relieves melancholy, normalizes sleep, and eliminates nightmares. The mineral is able to overcome schizophrenia. It is natural that this is an attribute of practical psychologists and psychotherapists.

Other areas

Lithotherapists have found that blue topaz or a product with it helps in the following cases:

• the work of internal organs is regulated;
• migraines recede;
• immunity is strengthened;
• bleeding stops;
• vision is restored;
• aging slows down;
• hypertension disappears.

There are no contraindications for wearing the stone for preventive or health purposes. A ring on the index finger of your right hand is better suited for this.

A silver pendant with topaz normalizes the functioning of the respiratory system and heals chronic diseases.

The stone protects against viral and colds, so it is recommended on the road.

Blue topaz as a talisman

The positive energy of the stone led to its use as a talisman. London topaz attracts good luck to the owner, helping to solve problems. First of all, he is the patron of scientists, travelers, and business people.

1. The stone develops intuition, therefore it is recommended for those whose specialization is detective, search in the broad sense of the word - scientists, criminologists, private detectives.
2. Topaz helps those who intend to get to the bottom of the truth and expose the intriguers.
3. The mineral has the ability to extinguish conflicts and settle disputes, so it will be useful to anyone whose career or professional success depends on other people. Businessmen will negotiate more successfully and conclude the necessary deals more easily.
4. Stone is taken to an interview or casting by anyone who needs a well-paid job.
5. This symbol of wisdom and harmony will help those on whose decisions the fate of a person - judges, doctors, teachers - think fairly.
6. The mineral is considered a talisman for people walking the spiritual path, striving to comprehend the secrets of the universe.
7. Blue topaz is taken on a sea cruise as a talisman against the vagaries of the elements.

The stone has a gentle effect on the owner, restoring emotional calm. Therefore, it will be useful to everyone who suffers from their own temper or lack of restraint.

The mysterious origin of topaz

The history of the appearance of the stone goes back about 3 thousand years, but no one knows exactly how and where topaz originated.

One version says that topaz was first found in the Red Sea on the island of Topazios, hence its name.

Ancient people called all yellow-brown gems “topazes.” They believed that the Sun God himself endowed this stone with a bright glow.

But blue topaz was considered the patron saint of all sailors. The ancestors believed that he calmed the storm and helped them return home unharmed.

How to recognize a fake?

When purchasing blue topaz, you should consider unfavorable options. Instead of an expensive stone, you can get a natural, similar in appearance, but cheap aquamarine, a glass imitation or a nano-analogue of the mineral.

London or aquamarine

An expert gemologist can immediately recognize a fake; for the average consumer, the differences are not obvious. But it’s useful to know the basic rules:

1. Aquamarine is paler, lighter. The background of blue topaz is rich and deep.
2. Topaz is a third heavier than aquamarine, but you can feel the difference if you hold both samples in your hands at once.
3. Topaz sinks in a jewelry salt solution (only a diamond can do this).

Jewelers accurately determine the properties of minerals using a refractometer. It is portable, so you can check its authenticity right in the store.

London or Sitall

Natural London blue is popular, but labor-intensive to obtain, so technologists created the London glass ceramics. This is an artificial topaz, the nanocrystals of which can only be distinguished from the original ones by a specialist using special equipment.

Sitall is as noble in appearance as its natural counterpart. But its physical properties are better - it is stronger, indifferent to external influences, which is why we love jewelers.

London or glass

For identification, standard characteristics of a real mineral are used, which:

• takes a long time to warm up in your hands;
• worn with wool, attracts pieces of paper or hair;
• leaves scratches on crystal or quartz;
• has cracks;
• comes in muted pastel colors.

Dark and colored stones are often counterfeited because they are less common and their prices are higher.

Natural stone or not

The mineral itself is of completely natural origin, but is extremely rare, since irradiation with radioactive elements contributes to its acquiring a special color.

There are very few natural reserves - they are found in:

• Russia; • Switzerland; • Namibia.

Of course, for jewelers and collectors, the pieces extracted from the ground are of the greatest value. However, every year fewer and fewer specimens worthy of attention are extracted from the depths. Today the count has already reached dozens. However, the demand for blue topazes continues to be very high, which has led to attempts to create them artificially. In principle, there is nothing surprising here - in any jewelry store you will see laboratory-grown diamonds, sapphires and emeralds.

The process that changes the shade was once artificially reproduced in a London laboratory, and the result exceeded all expectations. The resulting minerals turned out to be much purer than usual. They are highly transparent and very accurately match the color standard.

Artificial London topaz is indistinguishable from natural (at least externally). Moreover, its durability is higher, which means that jewelry with such an insert will last for many years without losing its presentation.

How to care for a stone?

The rules for caring for London stone are the same as for all representatives of this species. Under the influence of the sun and other natural factors, a mineral or decoration darkens, turns gray, fades, or fades. Topaz London is contraindicated:

• interaction with abrasives, household chemicals, cosmetics;
• exposure to direct sun;
• salt or fresh water;
• sudden changes in temperature;
• falls, shocks, and other mechanical impacts.

You should not wear rings, rings or bracelets while cleaning or cooking at home. Earrings with London topaz are removed when going to the beach or taking a bath. Before a grand entrance, jewelry with a stone is worn when makeup has already been applied.

The mineral in its original form is hard, but after cutting it becomes brittle and can crack or split if dropped or hit.

Clean topaz by blotting it with a soft damp cloth, then immediately wipe it dry. If there is significant contamination, the procedure is entrusted to a specialist.

What zodiac signs is it suitable for?

To maximize the magical and healing powers of any stone, you need to take into account its zodiac compatibility.

London Blue topaz is ideal for Gemini and Scorpio. For the first sign, the mineral helps restore energy, cope with anger and aggression, and normalize sleep. For Scorpios, blue stone gives protection from negativity and helps in establishing relationships with other people. London topaz also affects other zodiac signs:

• The stone helps Aries in communicating with strangers. Women of this sign can use blue topaz for confidence and to attract male attention.
• The mineral helps Cancers decide on their life plans and implement them faster.
• For Virgos and Capricorns, the blue gem opens the third eye and sharpens intuition. The stone gives wisdom to Capricorn men, and helps women of the sign to preserve youth and beauty and enhances charm.
• Sagittarius should wear London Topaz when they want to concentrate on one thing. The mineral will help this sign overcome its impulsiveness and achieve its goal faster.
• For Libra, the blue stone brings good luck in friendship and love, gives a positive attitude, success and stability in the social sphere.
• For Pisces, the gem provides harmony in the soul, strengthens health physically and psychologically, and charges with optimism.

It is not recommended to use London topaz as an amulet for Taurus and Aquarius. Jewelry with stones can be worn for special occasions or used on special occasions to sharpen intuition. It is not recommended for these signs to constantly wear the mineral.

Compatibility in jewelry

One of the advantages of Blue London is its universalism. The stone looks good with many metals, from aristocratic gold and platinum to silver and newfangled titanium, the price of which is affordable. Gold will suit white, pink, red or yellow. In jewelry, the color of topaz is complemented by stones - transparent or cold in color.

Topaz jewelry in a white gold frame is given after 16 years of marriage, for a topaz wedding.

Products with topaz are suitable for everyone, you just need to choose the style of the frame depending on your gender and age. Particularly organically, the English restraint and elegance of the mineral in gold will complement the style of a business lady or a respectable businessman.

Products made of white metal, for example, silver, will decorate blondes. Brown-haired, brunette, and red-haired ladies will become more mysterious wearing topaz and yellow gold jewelry.

The stone has become super fashionable. Topaz fever with a London accent swept the world in 2014 and hasn't subsided since.

Among the abundance of decorations

Such an exclusive item as London Topaz has inspired many designers to create unique jewelry. The faceted crystal has impeccably smooth surfaces, a transparent structure, gorgeous color and iridescent mirror shine.

Natural topaz can be worn however you like. This mineral is suitable for creating earrings, rings, bracelets, necklaces and other exquisite accessories. Making jewelry with it is a very profitable business. On the jewelry market, one carat of luxury costs from 20 to 30 US dollars.

However, there is a democratic alternative to London shade stone. This is a ceramic glass in blue shades. It is a nanocrystal, which is made on the basis of crystalline glass. The pebble looks very much like the luxurious London Blue. It has the same color and glossy surface. However, its cost per carat is 4-5 times lower. Sitall is inlaid into any jewelry, and gold and silver are most often used for framing. Such accessories are ideal for blondes with fair skin and blue eyes.

How much does London blue cost?

The cost of a stone depends on several factors:

• naturalness;
• color saturation;
• size;
• purity;
• cut quality.

The price per carat for ordinary crystals starts from $10–20, reaching $730–740 for exclusive specimens. Slightly cheaper than the London variety of Swiss blue and Sky blue topazes.

London is the most expensive of the blue topazes, but the price for bright red, pink, green or wine specimens is even higher. The price is also determined by the amount of renovation costs.

Application area

London Topaz stone is widely used in jewelry.
The processed product is distinguished by a unique blue tint, which has found an ideal combination with platinum and gold. By inserting a stone into bracelets, earrings, rings, pendants, jewelers receive extremely expensive jewelry, distinguished by its beauty, value and uniqueness, because each gem is truly unique! Using this breed, amulets and talismans are made that bring good luck, happiness, prosperity and love. Using such expensive trinkets, modern psychics and magicians, sorcerers and fortune tellers, perform unique rituals that can restore secret justice, eliminate people’s life problems, return their destiny and natural luck.

A large number of natural and artificial blue topazes can be seen at various exhibitions, private collections, and museums. In some countries they are used in architecture, decorating majestic palaces and temples with gems.

Topaz London and Zodiac

London Blue radiates calmness and embodies wisdom. This quality makes the stone suitable for any sign.

The energy of the mineral is close to Scorpios, Pisces, Cancers. He will calm these water signs, help them manage their personal power rationally, and overcome emotional negativity.

• According to the horoscope, the favorite of the stone is Scorpio. London will help ladies avoid extremes when making decisions and restore the internal balance of power. In men, it will enhance charisma and give prudence. It will make young people, especially girls, more confident in any environment.
• For Cancer, wearing the mineral will entail defining clear plans for life and their rapid implementation.
• Among those who are suitable for a dark blue stone are Pisces. They will maintain optimism and attractiveness, strengthen psychological and physiological health, and gain spiritual harmony.
• It is better for down-to-earth Taurus, Virgo or Capricorn to wear the gem on special occasions. The crystal will sharpen their intuition, awaken the gift of clairvoyance, and such curiosity must be restrained, otherwise troubles are inevitable.
• Topaz will protect Taurus from dark forces, stabilize the internal mood, clarifying and harmonizing the mind.
• For the zodiac sign Libra, the stone will help restore love and friendship and recharge with positivity. They will become more successful and socially stable.
• For Sagittarius, topaz will help concentrate energy on the main thing and cope with natural impulsiveness. Once they set a worthy goal, they will achieve it easier and faster than they imagined.

It is said that London Blue wearers attract attention more often than those wearing diamonds. Therefore, it is worth buying an aristocratic stone to feel yourself at a new level.