1.46 Ct. Topaz from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This specimen is a beautifully transparent 1.46 carat blue topaz, presented in an emerald cut outline with a checkerboard facet pattern on the crown. The measurements are 7.04 x 5.01 x 4.05 millimeters, which produces a pleasing face up size with good depth, and the stone exhibits a medium intense blue hue that is evenly distributed across the table. Clarity has been evaluated at eye level as very very slightly included, a grade that indicates microscopic inclusions that are not visible without magnification, contributing to an exceptionally clean appearance to the naked eye. The polish has been executed to an excellent standard, which enhances light return across the elongated emerald shape, and the checkerboard crown interaction provides scintillation and a gentle play of light that suits both classic and contemporary settings. Topaz is a nesosilicate of aluminium and fluorine, with the idealized chemical formula Al2SiO4F2, and its natural transparency and refractive characteristics allow cutters to deliver lively color and clarity, qualities that are evident in this gem available from The Natural Gemstone Company.

From a gemological and market perspective this blue topaz brings together desirable attributes for an educated buyer, beginning with geographic origin, which is Ceylon Sri Lanka, a source with a long history of producing fine gemstones. The color has been achieved through irradiation, an industry standard enhancement for blue topaz, and this treatment is fully disclosed here. Irradiation alters the crystal lattice to produce or intensify the blue hue, and when combined with controlled heat finishing it results in a stable and attractive color suited to everyday wear. The combination of medium intense color, excellent polish, and very very slightly included clarity positions this gem favorably when compared to untreated stones of lesser transparency or weaker cutting. Practical considerations for buyers include the Mohs hardness of topaz at about 8, which makes it durable for many types of jewelry, and the presence of perfect basal cleavage, which necessitates careful setting and avoidance of sharp knocks. For care we recommend gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush, and caution against steam cleaning or aggressive ultrasonic cleaning that may stress the stone, particularly if seated in a tight or complex mounting. For designers and lapidaries the stone measures well for a central solitare in a ring, or as an elegant accent in a pendant or pair of earrings, where its checkerboard crown will add a refined pattern of light.

Beyond its physical and commercial attributes this blue topaz also carries a range of metaphysical associations that are embraced by many collectors and holistic practitioners. Historically blue topaz has been associated with clarity of communication, calmness, and enhanced perception, qualities that have made it a popular choice for those seeking a stone to support the throat energy center and the expression of ideas with precision and confidence. Many users report that blue topaz promotes mental focus and soothes emotional turmoil, making it a useful talisman during periods of study or creative work, and its cooling blue tones are often interpreted as calming influences during times of stress. As an aid to meditation the stone is believed to clarify intention and to facilitate gentle introspective work without overstimulation. These properties are presented as traditional and anecdotal attributes rather than medical claims, they describe common beliefs held by gemstones enthusiasts, and they may complement the aesthetic and investment reasons for selecting this gem. When combined with the transparent clarity, the well proportioned emerald cut, the stable irradiation enhancement, and the provenance from Ceylon Sri Lanka this blue topaz represents a balanced choice for buyers who value both gemological integrity and the softer cultural meanings that gemstones can convey.