Natural London Blue Topaz 3.01ct Oval Cut Africa - Gold Shield

Frequently asked questions about topaz

What is topaz and what properties does it have?

Topaz is a natural gemstone (an aluminum silicate with fluorine) highly valued in jewelry for its brilliance, transparency and hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, which makes it durable for daily wear. It comes in several colors: colorless, blue, yellow, pink and the coveted imperial topaz. On a metaphysical level it is said to favor mental clarity and calm, though these are traditional beliefs, not proven medical properties.

What color is topaz and which is the most common?

Natural topaz ranges from colorless to blue, yellow, honey, pink and reddish-orange (imperial topaz, the most valuable). Blue topaz is one of the most sought-after; it's worth knowing that much of the intense blue on the market starts from colorless topaz that has been treated. At Gold Shield we work with natural, untreated gemstones and specify the color and origin of each piece, because every gem is one-of-a-kind (1-of-1).

How can you tell a natural topaz from a synthetic or fake one?

A natural topaz usually shows small internal inclusions, high hardness (it scratches glass) and a characteristic weight; glass or imitations feel lighter, scratch easily and may show bubbles. The reliable way to confirm it is with a professional tester: at Gold Shield we verify every gemstone with a Presidium tester before selling it, so you know you're receiving an authentic natural topaz and not an imitation or a synthetic.

How much does a topaz or a topaz ring cost in the USA?

The price depends on the color, the carat weight, the clarity and whether the gemstone is natural and untreated. As a reference, a natural blue topaz tends to be priced accessibly per carat, while fine imperial or pink topaz reaches much higher values. The cost of a ring also includes the metal of the setting (.925 silver or 10k/14k/18k gold) and the labor. At Gold Shield each gemstone carries its price according to weight and type, and you can request a quote for a custom setting.

Where can you buy certified natural topaz that ships to the USA?

At Gold Shield (goldshield.com.mx), a Mexican jeweler specialized in natural one-of-a-kind (1-of-1) gemstones. Each topaz is verified with a professional Presidium tester, set to measure in 10k/14k/18k gold or .925 silver and can be purchased as a loose gem or already mounted in a ring, pendant or earrings. We have verified reviews on Judge.me and ship to Mexico and the USA.

Can topaz be set, and how do you care for it?

Yes. Thanks to its hardness (8 Mohs), topaz sets very well in rings, pendants and earrings in gold or silver; at Gold Shield we mount it to measure for each gemstone. To care for it, avoid hard knocks (it can fracture along its cleavage), clean it with warm water, mild soap and a soft brush, and store it separately so it doesn't scratch against other jewelry. Avoid exposing it to intense heat or steam, especially color-treated topaz.