Having trouble choosing between Blue Topaz and Aquamarine?
They look very similar, both are blue, and both are quite popular. But which one is better? Which one is more affordable? Which one is right for you?
Let’s break down the differences between these two gemstones, their pros and cons, and more to help you know which is right for you!
Why Blue Topaz and Aquamarine?
Before delving into the details, let’s address the main question:
Why are these two gemstones often compared?
Because they both exhibit the dreamy blue hues that people love – but each in a unique way.
Blue Topaz is known for its brightness, affordability, and versatility.
Aquamarine, on the other hand, has a softer, ocean-like dreamy hue with a touch of elegance.
Ready? Let’s get started!
Table Of Contents
- What are Blue Topaz and Aquamarine?
- Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: What’s The Difference?
- Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Quick Comparison Chart
- Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Pros and Cons
- Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Cleaning and Care
- Related FAQs
- Final Thoughts: Blue Topaz or Aquamarine?
What are Blue Topaz and Aquamarine?
First, let’s get to know these gemstones at a basic level.
Blue Topaz is a type of topaz, a silicate mineral of aluminum and fluorine, with the chemical formula Al2SiO4(F,OH)2.
Aquamarine belongs to the beryl family (yes, the same family as Emerald), a mineral composed of beryllium aluminum silicate, with the chemical formula Be₃Al2Si6O18.
Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: What’s The Difference?
1. Appearance: Color Comparison
Color and appearance should be the primary reason you’re looking at these two gemstones, right?
Here’s a little “warm-up” before we dive in: look at the pictures below. Can you tell which is blue topaz and which is aquamarine?
If your answer is “left one is aquamarine, the other two are blue topaz”, congratulations, you’re correct. (Click images to view related products.)
As the pictures show:
Blue Topaz is striking, bold blue, ranging from light sky blue to deep blue. Common colors are “Sky Blue”, “Swiss Blue”, and “London Blue”. (Natural blue topaz is an extremely light ice blue (very rare); while the bright vivid blues we commonly see are irradiated and heat-treated).
Aquamarine? As the name suggests, it has a dreamy, soft, ocean-like blue, sometimes leaning towards bluish-green, with a lower saturation.
Simply put:
If you’re after a bold and vibrant look, Blue Topaz will meet your needs.
Want that soft and elegant vibe? Aquamarine is the choice for you.
2. Durability: Which Gemstone is More Durable?
This is a very practical question, as durability is important for everyday wear.
Blue Topaz has a Mohs hardness of 8.
Aquamarine follows closely behind, with a Mohs hardness between 7.5 and 8.
This means that both gemstones are durable enough for everyday use.
It’s worth noting, however – if subjected to a strong impact, Topaz is more prone to cracking and breaking due to the cleavage of its crystal structure. (Topaz cleavage: [001] Perfect; Aquamarine cleavage: Imperfect on {0001}).
3. Price Comparison: Blue Topaz vs Aquamarine
How can we not compare their prices? This is one of the necessary considerations when shopping.
Blue Topaz is an affordable gemstone, with the price of 1-carat Blue Topaz typically not exceeding $100 (loose stone). This is mainly due to its availability and ease of processing (yes, most are irradiated and heat-treated to achieve the perfect blue color).
If you’re on a budget, you can get a larger Blue Topaz without spending too much.
Aquamarine? More expensive. The price of 1-carat Aquamarine (loose stone) ranges from several hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars.
It’s rarer, and its natural blue hues make it a luxurious gemstone, and usually the darker the blue the higher the price.
In short: Blue Topaz is great for budget-conscious buyers, while Aquamarine is for those looking to invest.
4. Symbolism: The Energy of Blue Topaz and Aquamarine
Not everyone is interested in the meanings of gemstones, but if you are, here’s the rundown:
Blue Topaz is usually associated with clarity, communication, and wisdom.
It’s a popular choice for those who want to bring a sense of calm and mental clarity to their lives.
Aquamarine, on the other hand, symbolizes tranquility, peace, and courage.
It is associated with the water element and is often used to soothe emotions. (Sailors and travelers wear it to seek protection and peace.)
Simply put:
Need clarity of thought? Blue Topaz.
Looking for peace and courage? Aquamarine.
5. Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Treatment and Enhancement
When choosing gemstones, it’s important to understand their treatments and enhancements. The color and appearance of gemstones often vary depending on these treatments.
The vast majority of Blue Topaz on the market is created by irradiating and heat treating colorless or light-colored topaz to achieve the desired blue hues. (Natural blue topaz is very pale and extremely rare.)
The vast majority of aquamarine is natural, which is one of the reasons for its higher price. However, some people also heat treat Aquamarine to remove the greenish tint and enhance its pure blue color.
These treatments are safe and do not affect the gemstone’s durability, stability, or value.
Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Quick Comparison Chart
| Feature | Blue Topaz | Aquamarine |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Bold and striking blue | Soft, ocean-like blue |
| Treatment | Mostly treated | Almost all natural |
| Rarity | Abundant | Less common |
| Price | Affordable (1-carat typically under $100) | Higher (1-carat ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars) |
| Durability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Symbolism | Clarity, communication, calmness | Peace, courage, protection |
Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Pros and Cons
Sometimes a brief list of pros and cons can make a big difference.
Pros of Blue Topaz:
- Affordable
- Bright, eye-catching colors
- Durable and scratch-resistant
Cons of Blue Topaz:
- Prone to cracking under strong impact
- Some colors may feel too “electric” for more subtle tastes
- Not rare (usually treated for optimization)
Pros of Aquamarine:
- Natural soft blue hues
- High durability
- Investment value
Cons of Aquamarine:
- Higher price
- Less vibrant (if you’re looking for something bold)
Blue Topaz vs. Aquamarine: Cleaning and Care
In terms of care, both gemstones are not complicated, with slight differences but generally similar care instructions.
Blue Topaz: Avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures or intense sunlight, and keep it away from harsh chemicals. When cleaning, use warm water, neutral soap, and a soft cloth to gently wipe it, avoiding steam or ultrasonic cleaners. Clean once every 1-2 months.
Aquamarine: Avoid extreme temperatures (extreme cold or heat) and keep it away from harsh chemicals. Clean in a similar way, once every 2-3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your style and budget. Blue Topaz is more eye-catching and affordable, while Aquamarine provides a soft, elegant atmosphere but is more expensive.
Yes, but with caution. Both gemstones are durable enough for daily wear, but Blue Topaz may crack if subjected to heavy impact, so be careful when wearing it.
Most Blue Topaz gemstones are treated to achieve vibrant blue colors, while Aquamarine is typically left in its natural state, providing a soft ocean-like hue.
Yes. Most Aquamarine blue is natural, while most Blue Topaz is artificially treated. In terms of cost, value and rarity, aquamarine is more expensive than blue topaz.
Yes! They complement each other very well. In mixed gemstone jewelry, the boldness of blue topaz and the softness of aquamarine are perfectly balanced.
Final Thoughts: Blue Topaz or Aquamarine?
Ultimately, the choice between Blue Topaz and Aquamarine depends entirely on which gemstone appeals to you. What matters is not which is better or worse, but which one suits you best.
If you want something bold, affordable, and beautiful gemstone, Blue Topaz can give you more value.
If you’re looking for a dreamy, soft, and naturally colored gemstone, Aquamarine is the way to go.
Explore our collections of Blue Topaz Rings and Aquamarine Rings, where each gemstone is carefully selected, and each piece of jewelry is meticulously crafted! We hope every customer is delighted with their purchase!
Happy shopping – may your new gemstone add sparkle to your life!