Learn about Sapphire
The most obsessed-over sapphire in the world is the 12-carat stunner on Princess Diana’s legendary engagement ring.
Sapphire
- Corundum
- 9 Mohs
-
Libra Virgo
- Truth, Sincerity, Loyalty
- September Birthstone
Round
Pear
Oval
Overview
Fascinatingly beautiful and exotic, sapphire has been held in high esteem since the ancient times. The rich color and breathtaking brilliance of this gemstone make it a popular choice among contemporary jewelry designers as well.
A ravishing alternative to diamonds, sapphires come in every color of the rainbow – right from deep blues to pretty pinks. This alluring gemstone derives its name from the Greek word sappheiros, which was probably used to refer to lapis lazuli.
1. Key Origin
- Burma, Kashmir, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Australia, Cambodia, China, Columbia and the US are some of the well-known sources of sapphires.
- Rare and strikingly beautiful Kanchanaburi alluvial-mined sapphires from Thailand are used in high-end sapphire jewelry.
2. Associations
- For several centuries, the sapphire, which is a symbol of wisdom and good fortune, has been associated with royalty.
- In addition to being the birthstone for those born in the month of September and the gem for the 5th and 45th anniversaries, sapphire is also regarded to possess calming and healing properties.
Properties
Rated 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness
01Hardness & Strength
Sapphires possess a trigonal crystal system and have a refractive index of 1.76 to 1.78. The stunning gem has a melting point of 2040°C. It has exceptional toughness and no cleavage at all, which refers to the stone’s tendency to crack when struck. Owing to its remarkable hardness, sapphire is used in non-ornamental applications as well. Some sapphires are pleochroic and display a different color when viewed from different angles.
02Treatment
Sapphires are usually heat-treated to intensify the color and to improve clarity. Heating also helps remove inclusions and makes the stone more transparent. Most sapphires available are heat treated. Those with natural, unheated color are extremely costly.
The 4C’s
Classified as a precious stone, sapphire is one of the most sought-after colored gemstones in the world. This breathtakingly beautiful gemstone allures jewelry buyers with its color, transparency and durability. The price of a sapphire varies depending on its quality, and its quality, in turn, depends on several factors such as color, clarity, cut and carat.
- Color
- Carat
- Clarity
- Cuts
01Color
- Though blue is the most popular color of the sapphire, it is also available is several other hues such as purple, pink, orange, green, yellow as well as black.
- In general, sapphires with the most intense color are regarded to be the most valuable.
- Blue sapphires in velvety blue to violet blue are the most highly priced ones.
02Carat
- Compared to small sapphires, large sapphires are harder to find.
- Most commercial-quality sapphires have a weight of less than 5 carats.
- The size of a fine-quality sapphire directly affects its price.
03Clarity
- Natural sapphires are typically expected to contain inclusions. If a particular stone is devoid of inclusions, then there are high chances that it is a synthetic one.
- Inclusions that affect the stone’s brilliance, luster and durability also decrease its value.
- A high-quality sapphire must be free from any kind of visible imperfections
04Cuts
- The shape of a rough sapphire strongly influences the stone’s finished shape as well as size.
- Since most rough sapphires appear in barrel or spindle-shaped hexagonal pyramids, the resulting finished sapphires are often deep.
- While working on rough sapphires, gem cutters usually focus on maximizing the apparent color and final weight of the gem, and minimizing inclusions and color zoning.
Quality & Grading
There is no universal grading standard for sapphires. However, these gems can be broadly classified into the following grades:
| Gem Quality | Color | Clarity | Brilliance | Rareness | Shop Products |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heirloom (AAAA) |  Deep Rich Blue | Very Slightly Included to Eye Clean | Very High | Top 1% |
Round Blue Sapphire Stud Earrings$499 |
| Best (AAA) |  Medium to Rich Blue | Slightly Included | High | Top 10% |
Prong-Set Blue Sapphire Teardrop V-Bale Pendant with Diamond$1,619 |
| Better (AA) |  Dark to Medium Blue | Moderately Included | Medium | Top 33% |
Heart-Shaped Blue Sapphire Infinity Pendant with Diamond Accents$489 |
| Good (A) |  Dark Blue | Opaque | Low | Top 75% |
Pear Sapphire Leverback Drop Earrings with Diamond$656 |
Care Instructions
Similar to diamonds, sapphires are durable and apt for regular wear. However, over time and frequent wear, dirt and grime may settle on your jewelry, making even the most valuable ones look faded and dull. Keeping your jewelry clean is the best way to retain its dazzle for a long time. Here are a few tips that you can follow to keep your sapphire jewelry shining.
FAQs
1. Are sapphires always blue?
No, sapphires come in many colors, including pink, yellow, green and orange. These varieties are called ‘fancy sapphires.’ Blue is the most well-known color of sapphire.
2. What gives sapphires their color?
The color of a sapphire depends on trace elements within the mineral corundum. For instance, blue sapphires contain iron and titanium, while pink sapphires contain chromium.
3. Are sapphires rare?
Sapphires are generally abundant, but specific types, such as Padparadscha sapphires or untreated high-quality stones, are rare and highly sought after.
4. Can sapphires change color?
Yes, certain sapphires can exhibit a color-change effect, appearing blue under daylight and purplish under incandescent light.
5. Are sapphires treated?
Many sapphires are treated, typically through heat treatment, to enhance their color and clarity. Untreated sapphires are rarer and more valuable.
Latest Pick from Sapphire Jewelry
- Classic Three Stone Round Blue Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring$2,789
- Shared Prong Sapphire and Diamond Eternity Band$3,179
- Aeon Vintage Inspired Oval Sapphire Solitaire Engagement Ring with Milgrain$4,119
- Prong-Set Oval Pink Sapphire Cathedral Solitaire Engagement Ring$1,979
- Princess Diana Inspired Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring with Diamond Halo$6,799
- Sapphire and Diamond Twisted Vine Engagement Ring$3,799
- Five Stone Blue Sapphire and Diamond Wedding Ring$1,679
- Blue Sapphire and Diamond Semi Eternity Classic Wedding Ring$2,109
- Prong-Set Oval Pink Sapphire Halo Engagement Ring with Diamond Accents$3,029
- Shared Prong Sapphire and Diamond Half Eternity Ring$1,959
Know About Other Gems
Keep Exploring
Garnet
Did you know this glorious gemstone derives its name from the Latin word "garanatus", which translates to "seed-like"? It was also believed to be used by Noah to guide his ark through the darkness. In addition to these, there’s more information about garnet which is truly fascinating.
Amethyst
It’s not just the captivating and intense purple hue that makes an amethyst so popular. Fascinating legends and important symbolism, along with interesting facts about its origin have together ensured that this gem receives all the admiration it deserves.
Aquamarine
A single look at an aquamarine will make you realize why it is often referred to as the 'gem of the sea'. The glistening facets of this stone radiate the deep mysteries of the ocean, while its sheer beauty mesmerizes effortlessly.
Emerald
Green is the color of freshness, nature and rejuvenation. And if there’s one precious gem that does complete justice to the beauty of this hue, it has to be emerald. A symbol of new beginnings, this gemstone has been revered for centuries for all the right reasons.
Moonstone
Famed for the phenomenon called ‘adularescence’, the moonstone is no ordinary gem. It radiates a glow that resembles the moon lying still under the calm of the ocean. Now the official birthstone of June, this jewel is an absolute treat for those with refined taste.
Ruby
Ruby is a part of the ‘Big Three’ of colored and precious gemstones, and a possession the entire world desires to own. But what makes it sought-after? Is it the rarity, captivating color or ancient legends that surround it? Find all the answers right here!
Peridot
How did the ancient civilization mine peridots? They set out in the night and used a lamp to spot this gem that shimmered in an olive green hue. This was the perfect reason for it to be christened the “evening emerald” by the Romans.
Sapphire
Some jewels need no introduction. Their magnificence does all the talking, and sapphire is a fine example of this. From royals and aristocrats to those with a penchant for pure luxury – everyone has a special place in their heart for this enchanting jewel.
Opal
A symbol of hope and purity, an opal comes packed with a vivid ‘play-of-color’ that is reminiscent of fireworks in the night sky. Find out more about this gem that has charmed many great personalities, including William Shakespeare.
Tourmaline
Renowned for its extensive and exciting color spectrum, this gem is an absolute treat for the eyes. While pink happens to be one of its most popular shades, tourmalines in bi-colors and tri-colors are also very much in demand. Learn more about this jewel with the help of our informational guide.
Swiss Blue Topaz
Did you know? The name of this gem is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘tapas’, which means ‘fire’. Also, blue is not the only color this gem is available is. You can find topaz in multiple hues, including yellow, orange, pink, red and purple. Read our guide to know more interesting details about this eye-catching gem.
Citrine
Blessed with a cheery sunny shade, this jewel doesn’t have to do much to grab attention. But do you know the history and the symbolism of the vibrant citrine? Discover all the interesting information about this honey-yellow beauty right here.
Tanzanite
The more you read about tanzanite, the more fascinating and alluring it gets. From the intriguing folklores about its birth to the fact that it’s rarer than diamonds, this gemstone is brimming with mystery and spellbinding beauty.
Turquoise
Did you know? Turquoise is one of the official birthstones of December. Its summery sky hue earned it the title of ‘mefkat,’ which translates to ‘gem of joy.’ Discover more such interesting information, along with quality grading details that will help you make an informed purchase.
Morganite
This peachy stunner is named after the renowned American gemstone collector and banker – John Pierpont Morgan. Not only is it popular in the jewelry industry, but also in the field of crystal healing. This gem is also believed to attract and nurture love.
Onyx
Is this gem as intriguing as its name? Yes, it definitely is. According to legends, onyx is believed to have come from Venus – the goddess of love. That’s not all. Many ancient cultures even considered it a lucky talisman. Continue reading to know more about this fascinating gem.
Tsavorite
Tsavorite may remind you of the emerald, but this sensational green gem happens to be an expensive variety of grossular garnet. What’s more, it cannot be found anywhere else on earth besides Africa. Good-looking and rare, this jewel promises to be a valuable discovery.
Rhodolite
Did you know? Rhodolite derives its name from the Greek word ‘rhodon’ which means ‘rose’. This gem’s attractive hue is its biggest USP and can vary from a light rose-pink to a dark raspberry red. Enter now, and learn more about this gleaming member of the garnet family.
Rose Quartz
If you’re looking for a gem that is subtle yet charming and exudes a romantic vibe then this may just be what you need. Blessed with a delicate pink hue, rose quartz has been used for crafting jewelry since several centuries. Read our guide to find out what makes this jewel different from the others.
