Birthstones December: Blue Topaz or Turquoise? Which Gemstone Will You Choose?

December, the twelfth and final month of the year is finally here. Are you a bride or a groom born during this month? According to ancient tradition, your birthstone is turquoise. Many gem societies around the world have added another gemstone for the December born. Blue Topaz.

Topaz is a silicate mineral of aluminium and fluorine. When originally mined, the crystal topaz has no colour. It is indeed a colourless gemstone. Coloured stones are created through a process called heat treating or irradiation. Topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. Mainly mined in Brazil, topaz is also found in China, Russia, Mexico and the USA.

When looking for gemstones to adorn either your engagement rings or wedding bands, topaz will be presented to you in different colours. By far the most popular colour is a light turqoise blue gemstone. Other colours include grey, red, yellow and white. Topaz is also cut in many shapes from oval, emerald, pear and even round. Ensure that the gemstones are clear, that they give off a bright and brilliant colour. Make sure that the gemstones are well cut.

EMERALD CUT ENGAGEMENT RING

Symbols associated with this stone include wealth, longevity and strength. Topaz is also the gemstone that traditionally commemorates the 16th wedding anniversary.