Topaz Engagement Rings: The Complete Guide

Though the first thing that may come to mind when you think of topaz is an affordable blue bauble, there’s so much more to this underrated gemstone. Above all else, topaz is versatile. In fact, it's quickly becoming a popular alternative to the traditional diamond engagement ring among modern brides-to-be.

What Is Topaz?

Topaz is a gemstone that appears in a wide range of colors, including green, yellow, orange, and, most commonly, blue. Its color is caused by impurities or defects in its crystal structure rather than its chemical composition.

The name itself comes from Topazios, the old Greek moniker for an island in the Red Sea. The island never produced topaz, but it did produce peridot, which was confused with topaz. “For us, topaz engagement rings have been a fun alternative to the standard diamond solitaire,” says jewelry designer Suzanne Kalan. “Topaz is a symbol of love and affection, hence a popular gem for an engagement ring.”

Meet the Expert

Suzanne Kalan is a California-based fine jewelry designer with over 28 years of experience in the industry. She works with colorful, custom-cut gemstones and diamonds, and her jewelry has been worn by celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Aniston, and Lady Gaga.

Think this gemstone might be for you? Find out what to look for when shopping for a topaz engagement ring.

Pros and Cons of Topaz Engagement Rings

Topaz is more affordable than a diamond. “Not everyone wants or can afford a large diamond. A topaz helps create the larger look for a fraction of the price,” Kalan says. She also adds that topaz can take a high polish, which is ideal for a sparkling ring stone. On the downside, "topazes are fragile stones and can scratch easily,” Kalan notes, which makes them a bit too fragile for everyday wear. And if your topaz has been heat- or color-treated, it “can fade in color in high heat or if it comes in contact with chemicals.”

What to Look for in a Topaz Ring

What are the different shades of topaz? Topaz offers a wide color range, including glistening tones of green, yellow, blue, orange, red, purple, and pink as well as colorless topaz (known as "white topaz").
What shape works best with a topaz gemstone? “The stone usually comes either elongated or columnar, and it is often cut as long oval or pear shapes to improve yield,” says Kalan.
What setting works best with a topaz gemstone? “Protective ring settings like a bezel should keep the stone safe from knocks, and a skilled jeweler can position prongs so they don’t place stress on the cleavage plane,” Kalan explains. “Stones with less elongated shapes often appear in halo settings.”

How to Care for Your Topaz Ring

Clean your topaz with warm water, mild soap, and a soft toothbrush. "Keep your topaz away from any chemicals like lotions, hair products, or household cleaning supplies,” says Kalan. "Additionally, you shouldn’t shower or go into any warm bodies of water with treated topaz stones.”

When storing your topaz engagement ring, make sure not to place it next to any of your other jewelry. Even though topaz is a strong gemstone, it is also prone to scratches if knocked against another hard surface. Also, topaz—treated or untreated—starts to fade in color over time. To prevent premature fading, store your ring in moderate temperatures.

Now, scroll through the beautiful topaz engagement rings below.

Suzanne Kalan Yellow Gold Bella Ring

Two blues are better than one, as is proven in this stunning Swiss Blue and English Blue topaz ring featuring a band of white diamonds.

Jennie Kwon Topaz Long Spear Ring

The Imperial Topaz center stone on this unique engagement ring is set between two small diamonds and a 14k yellow gold band.

Price at time of publish: $915

Suzanne Kalan Rose Gold Poppy Ring

If you're looking for a unique wedding band, consider this 14k rose gold ring featuring topaz and diamonds.

Mociun Lotus Garnet Luna Ring

A one-of-a-kind asymmetrical ring featuring lotus garnet, white and champagne diamonds, and precious topaz.

Price at time of publish: $3,000

Yi Collection Topaz and Peridot Chain Ring

If you’re looking for a sweet, simple engagement ring, consider this chain version featuring blue topaz and green peridot gemstones.

Price at time of publish: $690

Katey Walker Tiny Heart Gold and Topaz Ring

Katey Walker Tiny Heart 18K Gold and Topaz Ring — Courtesy of Moda Operandi

This heart-shaped topaz ring is a charming option for the understated bride-to-be.

Price at time of publish: $595

Jacquie Aiche Topaz Burst Diamond Ring

Jacquie Aiche Topaz Ring — COURTESY OF JACQUIE AICHE

This topaz burst ring accentuated with diamonds is a striking option for the bohemian-inspired bride.

Mateo Point of Focus Diamond Topaz and Gold Ring

Mateo Point of Focus Diamond Topaz and 14K Gold Ring — Courtesy of Matches Fashion

The lines on this diamond and emerald-cut blue topaz ring feel artistically inspired.

Price at time of publish: $1,375

Natalie Marie Pear Trio Ring

The beauty of topaz is that it plays nicely with other gemstones, like morganite, as seen on this delicate three-stone engagement ring.

Price at time of publish: $430

OC Jewelers Diamond and London Blue Topaz Engagement Ring

This London Blue topaz center stone feels regal and elegant, as do the 56 round, brilliant-cut diamonds that line the band.

Price at time of publish: $3,759

Ippolita Lollipop Small Ring

ippolita topaz ring — COURTESY OF IPPOLITA

This hand-cut, London Blue topaz stone sits in a halo of tiny diamonds. It's a modern yet timeless look you will forever treasure.

Price at time of publish: $1,995

Gemvara Round Blue Topaz Ring

Dive into a sea of blue with this topaz engagement ring. The center blue topaz gemstone is flanked by two aquamarine stones.

Price at time of publish: $985

The Ultimate Guide to Non-Traditional Engagement Rings

Brilliant Earth Marina Diamond Ring

This ring features a cluster of sapphire, London Blue topaz, aquamarine, and diamond gemstones.

Price at time of publish: $1,390

Allurez Emerald-Cut Blue Topaz & Diamond Ring

Allurez Topaz Ring — COURTESY OF ALLUREZ

You won't be able to take your eyes off this emerald-cut blue topaz ring. The gemstone is held in a prong setting with diamonds on either side.

Price at time of publish: $5,354

Tiffany & Co. Paloma's Studio Hexagon Ring

A hexagon-cut stone is a unique twist on the traditional engagement ring. This minimalist blue topaz stone is held on an 18k gold band.

1stDibs 14k White Gold Diamond Engagement Ring

You'll get lost in the beauty of this mystic blue topaz gemstone. It is flanked with round brilliant-cut diamonds on a 14K white gold band.

Le Vian Deep Sea Blue Topaz & Vanilla and Chocolate Diamond Ring

Is there anything more enticing than chocolate diamonds? It doesn't seem like it. This deep-blue topaz ring features vanilla and chocolate diamonds on either side of the gemstone.

Price at time of publish: $1,600

Zales Enchanted Disney Cinderella Ring

This ring truly looks like it is something from a fairy tale. Inspired by Cinderella, this emerald-cut, London Blue topaz ring is part of Zales Enchanted Disney Fine Jewelry Collection.

Price at time of publish: $2,779

Pomellato Nudo Gelè Classic White Topaz Ring

The mixture of white topaz and mother-of-pearl makes for a chic yet sophisticated engagement ring. The stone is on an 18k yellow gold band.

Price at time of publish: $3,200

Bea Bongiasca Ring

If you are looking to completely skirt the rules of traditional engagement rings, this avant-garde piece is an eye-catching choice. The twisted band paired with the pear-cut blue topaz makes for a one-of-a-kind combination.