Sea & Earth - Vintage 10K Gold Natural London Blue Topaz, Diamond & Smoky Quartz Cluster Ring (VR1025)

Sea & Earth - Vintage 10K Gold Natural London Blue Topaz, Diamond & Smoky Quartz Cluster Ring. This gorgeous ring is crafted from 10K yellow gold, hallmarked 10K. The ring features one natural cushion cut 'London Blue' topaz, 24 natural single cut diamonds, 24 round cut faceted smoky quartz gemstones, classic styling, and quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this ring is expertly claw-set with a beautiful 'London Blue' topaz, displaying teal/blue hues. The London Blue topaz is surrounded by a row of sparkling clear diamonds, and a second row of smoky quartz gems. The colour combination of the gems works beautifully together, adding contrast, and character to the piece. The profile showcases lovely open-work, whilst the shank is tapered, smooth, and polished, which allows for a comfortable fit, and easy sizing. This vintage ring would make a unique engagement ring, or gift for that special someone. 

History: The history of London Blue Topaz gemstones has been surrounded by mystery. It has a distinct hue that sets it apart from the other blue gemstones. Topaz has a unique composition. In their natural state, they are colourless. After mined, topaz is treated by the experts. Usually, they are exposed to radiation, which helps them achieve their beautiful blue colour. London Blue Topaz gemstone is different from the other blue topaz gemstone. Let’s ride through the lore and the stories surrounding the London blue topaz. 

Topaz is believed to be in existence since prehistoric times. It also finds mention in the Old Testament. Yellow topaz was the most common and popular type of topaz until London blue topaz was discovered. As per Old Testament, the word topaz means precious gemstone. 

Middle Ages literary and historical documents mention the precious stone called topazion. Although it is a Greek word, historians trace back the origins of the term to the Sanskrit word, Tapaz, which means fire. 

In Egypt, there is an island called, Tapazios, from where the gemstones are believed to be originated. This island is now known as St. John’s Island, located in the red sea. As per Egyptian mythology, the London blue topaz is referred to as the gem of the sun. Egyptians believed that the sun god Ra bestowed his blessings on the stone, so the wearer of the ring would also be blessed with its powers. 

There are many biblical references one can find about the London blue topaz. For example, Topaz was mentioned as a stone of fire for their prowess. They are also believed to be one of the twelve stones that were appended while making the walls of Jerusalem a foundation stone. 

The history of the topaz varies. Multiple sources indicate the varying places of origin for the gemstone. However, Germany’s  modern documented discovery of the topaz was in the 18th century. This Topaz had yellow colour in its natural state. The topaz, in its appearance, is very much similar to the diamond. However, it also has a clarity that brings out its colour even more and makes the jewellery even more attractive for the customers. This is precisely why you find the multiple types of London blue topaz  jewellery in the market. 

London blue topaz gemstones have an inky colour. This is uncommon for the gemstone. Their colour is darker than the other blue topaz but lighter than the sapphire gemstones. 

The journey of the London blue topaz starts similar to the other gemstones in the mine. First, they are cleaned and exposed to gamma radiation. Depending upon the colour requirement, neutrons and electrons are used. For the London Blue Topaz, neutrons are preferred because neutrons bring out darker colour to the stone than electrons. First, these stones are placed in small nuclear reactors. To achieve the blue colour, the gemstones have to be exposed to neutrons. The gamma radiation acts as a purifier, mitigates the stone’s natural yellow or green colour and brings out the blue colour. The neutrons have good penetration, so they do not increase the temperature of the gemstone to a larger extent. To be on the safer side, the radiations take place slowly, not as to overheat the stone. Due to the uniform radiation, the colour is consistent throughout the stone. The colour also sometimes has a greenish hue if you look at the stone from certain angles. 

London Blue Topaz is valued not just because of its beauty but also because of its symbolic significance and the multiple benefits you get after you start wearing it. Let’s look at some of the benefits of the London Blue Topaz that are mentioned below:  

1. Symbolism

The colour blue is often associated with loyalty. According to the history of the London blue topaz, wearers of these gemstones have a healthy and long-lasting relationship. Therefore, you can strengthen your relationship with your partner by gifting yourself London blue topaz rings, as a symbol of your never-ending love. 

2. Astrological Benefits

The London Blue Topaz is often recommended to people who have low self-esteem or struggle with their confidence. After a few days of wearing this gem, you will start noticing differences in yourself. It makes you confident as well as helps you in voicing your opinions. You become more conscious and observant about your surroundings and your role in the situation. Another benefit of the London Blue Topaz is thinking clearly and cohesively articulating your thoughts. The stone is believed to make you more successful in your business endeavors. 

3. Metaphysical Benefits

The blue colour of the London Blue Topaz is the healer. It works on your chakras and makes them work in your favor. The stone’s healing energy calms your mind and you find the inner peace and stability you want. If you have psychic abilities, then London Blue Topaz will amplify them. This gemstone characteristic also helps you become more understanding about your partner’s or the feelings of those around you. It leads to you having a more secure and good relationship with others.  

4. Health Benefits

London Blue topaz corrects poor vision. In some cultures, people kept the blue stone on their eyes to soothe them. This gemstone is especially beneficial to those who have throat-related diseases. It balances the thyroid gland giving you maximum relaxation. It also offers mental peace, especially if you are away from your home. Overall, it gives out relaxing energy and vibes. You can either wear it as jewellery or keep the stone in your home. It will bring positivity to your household by keeping the evil energy away as much as possible. As a result, you will feel much more energized and good about yourself. This will further your chances for success. 

The earliest diamonds were found in India in 4th century BC, although the youngest of these deposits were formed 900 million years ago. A majority of these early stones were transported along the network of trade routes that connected India and China, commonly known as the Silk Road.

The name Smoky Quartz was first heard of in the realm of gemstones in 1837. It was reported by mineralogist James Dwight Dana who named the brown Quartz crystal as such due to its semblance to smoke. Scotland is the country known to have a wealth of historical associations with Smoky Quartz.

Gold was generally used for a couple thousand years solely to create things such as jewelry and idols for worship. This was until around 1500 BC when the ancient empire of Egypt, which benefited greatly from its gold-bearing region, Nubia, made gold the first official medium of exchange for international trade.

Measurements: Face of the Ring 14.00 mm x 13.50 mm 

Stone Size: London Blue Topaz 2.10 carats     Diamonds .24 carats      Smoky Quartz .48 carats 

Weight: 2.83 grams 

Ring Size: 5 1/2 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1990