White topaz and diamonds are colorless and naturally occurring gemstones. They’re organic substances found deep inside the earth. Topaz can be as colorless as a diamond in its purest form.
If you’re stuck wondering whether to choose white topaz or diamond. This guide shares the characteristics of both gemstones to make your decision easier.
What is white topaz?
White topaz is a colorless variety of topaz, a silicate mineral. Topaz comes in other colors, including green, blue, brown, yellow, and orange.
Topaz forms when water from nearby rocks crystallizes magma into a rock known as pegmatite. This rock hides in inactive volcanoes. Topaz exists inside this rock and becomes colorless once the sunlight hits its surface. Jewelry lovers often use white topaz as a diamond alternative.
What are diamonds?
Diamonds are the most valuable gemstones out there. They are rare minerals composed of pure carbon. The arrangement of carbon atoms in the lattice offers the diamond its exceptional properties.
Diamonds form when carbon deposits in the depths of the earth’s crust are subject to pressure and high temperature. Some diamonds take shape in a few days or months, and others materialize after millions of years.
White topaz vs diamond: How they compare
| Gemstone | White Topaz | Diamond |
| Chemical composition | Al₂SiO₄(F, OH)₂ | C |
| Material | Silicate material of Fluorine and Aluminum | Carbon |
| Mohs hardness scale | 8 | 10 |
| Dispersion | Low (0.014) | High (0.044) |
Brilliance (Refractive index) | 1.664 | 2.417 |
| Durability | Can lose its sparkle and can chip over time | Extremely durable |
| Price range | $50-$100 per carat | More than $3000 per carat |
| Origin | Brazil, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka | Botswana, Russia, and Canada |
What’s the difference between diamonds and white topaz?
Let’s discuss the factors that differentiate diamonds from white topaz.
Color
Color is the main characteristic that makes white topaz and diamond similar. Both gemstones are colorless in their purest form.
In diamonds, D-F grades are the most expensive ones. As the grades get lower, the price and quality of the diamond also decrease.
On the other hand, white topaz is transparent or translucent. It may contain inclusions or minor impurities that may affect its color quality. A low-quality stone may appear milky and cloudy.
An inexperienced eye can easily confuse a perfectly colorless white topaz with a diamond.
Cost
The cost of white topaz is way less than a diamond. Diamond’s rarity and high popularity contribute to its high price.
White topaz can be a fantastic alternative to the diamond if you have budget constraints.
Prestige
Diamonds are considered one of the most precious and prestigious gemstones worldwide. They are typically passed down as heirlooms from generation to generation.
On the other hand, white topaz doesn’t belong to the precious gemstone category. Good quality white topaz gemstones are easily accessible, making them less valuable.
Durability
Diamond is the most durable gemstone. It’s famous for its flawless ranking of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Diamonds are scratch-resistant and almost indestructible.
Topaz comes close at 8 on the Mohs scale, making it the hardest natural silicate mineral in the world. Topaz is harder than most of the gemstones out there. However, it can crack, chip, or even break with a strong enough hit. Moreover, scratches can build up and make a white topaz lose its luster.
Care
Diamonds don’t require a lot of maintenance. They can stay shiny for a long time without consistent care. However, the gemstone may appear cloudy with dirt or oil on its surface.
The best way to clean diamond jewelry is by using a soft-bristled brush and warm soapy water.
On the other hand, white topaz is more prone to scratches which may make the gemstone unattractive over time. Consider getting it re-polished by a professional jeweler to bring back its luster.
You can use an ultrasonic cleaner for diamond jewelry but not white topaz, as it may get damaged.
Strong chemicals in house cleaning products can damage diamond and white topaz stones over time. So, we advise you to avoid wearing diamond or white topaz jewelry while doing chores like cleaning, laundry, and washing dishes.
💡 Take Note: It’s essential to get white topaz and diamond professionally checked frequently to ensure they are in their best shape.
White topaz and diamond appear similar; however, trained eyes can tell the difference. Diamond is more prestigious, more durable, and maintenance. However, when it comes to price, white topaz is more affordable.
Frequently asked questions
Here are a few questions you may have if you’re still deciding between white topaz and diamond.
What’s the next best thing to diamonds?
Moissanite is the second hardest gemstone, after diamond, used in jewelry-making, making it the next best thing to diamonds. Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral called silicon carbide. While the gemstone strongly resembles a diamond, it also comes at a fraction of its price. In addition, moissanite is almost as durable as a diamond, making it a great alternative.
Does white topaz make a good engagement ring?
A good quality white topaz is a good choice for an engagement ring. While it looks very similar to a diamond, it’s also a much more affordable option. Moreover, topaz is considered a sacred stone in various cultures and is associated with wealth and prosperity.
Is topaz better than diamond?
Topaz is only better than diamond if you’re on a budget and looking for an affordable alternative. Otherwise, a diamond is better when it comes to durability, maintenance, color, cut, sparkle, and shine.
Is white topaz a real diamond?
White topaz is not a diamond. It’s a silicate mineral of Fluorine and Aluminium, while a diamond is a polymorph of carbon. Both have very different chemical compositions.
Can you tell the difference between white topaz and diamonds?
An experienced jeweler can tell the difference between white topaz and diamonds. However, an amateur might mistake a good-quality white topaz for a diamond.
Will you choose white topaz or diamond?
White topaz and diamond look similar; however, diamond is superior in durability, maintenance, color, cut, sparkle, and shine. If price is not an issue, by all means, indulge in a diamond.
But if you’re looking for an affordable diamond alternative, a good-quality topaz will still look great. Just remember to keep it from hitting hard surfaces and clean it regularly.
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