December's Birthstone Blue Topaz

The Blue Topaz is a gorgeous stone that has been revered for centuries. The Topaz is a mineral that is found in Europe, South America, Japan, Mexico and the United States as well as other parts of the world. It comes in many different colors and a few have formed into giant crystal boulders that you can see in some museums. There are very rare Topaz stones that have been mined and cut into massive personal stones like the Topaz of Aurungzebe that measured 157.75 carats and the American Golden Topaz, a more recent get that measured a massive 22,892.5 carats.

The Blue Topaz stone is broken down into 3 shade categories:
Sky - light blue hues
Swiss - medium blue hues
London - darkest blue hues

Most jewelers and consumers consider the London Blue Topaz to be the most desirable and valuable out of the three gemstone hues. It is also rarer so you will find more Sky blue and Swiss blue stones in the marketplace. Being able to access the Sky and Swiss stones also keeps the stone more affordable for everyday use.

Topaz is a beautiful stone and the clear color makes for a beautiful piece of jewelry.  When looking for gifting ideas for December birthdays you will find lovely drop earrings or large cut stone studs that look amazing. Also the Topaz looks fabulous in a pendant or pin and will take an outfit from pretty to stunning.

Also great for the December Topaz babies are some stunning large cocktail rings that show off the dramatic cut of the stone. Surround it with some clear crystals or diamonds and you have an amazing ring. Pair it with a matching bracelet and you will look like you spent a million bucks!

Topaz is a beautiful choice for the jewelry lover and it looks amazing set in silver or gold. The ranges of colors available make it an affordable gemstone that anyone can enjoy.

by Gregg Nosaji, Contributing Editor for ChasingTreasure.com, online retailer of jewelry boxes, jewelry armoires and jewelry related gifts. Gregg is an event consultant and writes about gift ideas and special occasions.