Blue Topaz vs. Turquoise: What’s the Difference?

Can’t decide between a blue topaz and turquoise? If so, we highly recommend reading this comparative analysis.

1. Description

Blue Topaz: A member of the silicate group, the blue variant is one of the rarest colors of the topaz present in the market today. It is named after the Greek word ‘Topazios’, which is a small island in the Red Sea.

Turquoise: The turquoise is a member of the phosphate mineral clan. Its name is derived from the French word ‘pierre tourques’ which translates to the ‘Turkish stone’.

2. Color

Blue Topaz: Based on the amount of iron and chromium impurities present within its chemical composition, the blue topaz can be found in three distinct hues – light blue, sea blue, and dark greenish-blue.

Turquoise: This gemstone gets its color from the trace amounts of iron, zinc, and/or copper in its chemical structure and is available in beautiful shades of green and blue. As of today, intense blue turquoises are considered to be the most valuable of the lot.

3. Symbolism

Blue Topaz: This gem is commonly associated with love, fidelity, success, opportunity, communication, and wisdom.

Turquoise: Because of its peppy hue, turquoise is used to represent several positive attributes, such as happiness and infinite possibilities.

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4. Rarity

Blue Topaz: Naturally occurring vibrant blue topazes are exceptionally rare. Having said that, treated blue topazes are easily found in the market today.

Turquoise: In comparison, turquoise is more commonly found in nature.

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5. Treatment

Blue Topaz: This gemstone is generally exposed to either heat or irradiation treatments in order to enhance its color and clarity.

Turquoise: Majority of turquoises undergo at least one of three different treatments to improve their durability and hue. These methods include stabilization, dyeing, waxing and oiling.

6. Clarity

Blue Topaz: Due to the heat treatment that it undergoes, the blue topaz is typically eye-clean. This means that it has no visible inclusions, which results in excellent clarity.

Turquoise: This gemstone, on the other hand, is prized for its opaque surface which sets it apart from the other jewels.

7. Durability

Blue Topaz: This jewel is undoubtedly the more durable one of the two. It has a rating of 8 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which means it is sturdy enough for everyday wear. However, it also possesses the perfect gemstone cleavage property, so it can get fractured if dealt with a hard blow.

Turquoise: The turquoise has a rating of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which means that it should ideally only be used for special events.

8. Popularity

Blue Topaz: In addition to being beautiful to look at, the blue topaz is also one of the November birthstones, which has further increased its popularity.

Turquoise: Since its discovery, the turquoise has continuously been in and out of the public eye. And while it may not be as well-known as the blue topaz, its popularity is currently on the rise.

9. Affordability

Blue Topaz: Natural blue topazes are extremely scarce and therefore come with a high price tag. However, treated blue topazes are more affordable.

Turquoise: Alternatively, turquoises are much cheaper and therefore a great option for anyone who’s looking for a blue stunner that’s also easy on the pocket.