Sapphire: A Durable Gemstone With Stunning Color
Sapphires are one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. They are prized for their stunning colors, ranging from deep blue to pink, yellow, green, and even white. These stones are very durable, second only to diamonds in hardness.
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What is Sapphire?
Sapphire is a type of corundum (a mineral made of aluminum and oxygen). Traces of other elements determine the color of the stone. For example, iron and titanium give this stone its popular blue hue, while chromium can give it a pink or red tint.
Sapphires are a 9 on the Moh's scale of hardness making them very durable. They are formed under high pressure and temperature in the earth's crust and are mined in many countries (such as Australia, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Thailand, Myanmar, and the United States).
Why Choose It for Your Custom Design?
Sapphires are beautiful and durable. They come in a variety of vivid colors, have a brilliant sparkle, and can be cut into many shapes and sizes. At the same time, sapphires are very resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. They can only be scratched by another sapphire or diamond, and they are stable under heat and light (unlike other gemstones that can fade or change color over time).
Sapphires are associated with loyalty, wisdom, honesty, and faithfulness. They have been worn by kings, queens, and celebrities, as well as by ordinary people who want to express their love and devotion. They are the birthstone of September and the anniversary stone for the 5th and 45th years of marriage. Sapphires also have positive zodiac associations for Gemini, Taurus, and Virgo.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Sapphire
- Although the most common sapphires are blue, they can come in a rainbow of colors. The color is described by a combination of hue (e.g., green, blue), saturation (intensity or purity), and tone (light or dark). The most commonly requested sapphire is a medium to dark blue with a strong saturation and a slight violet or purple hue (we want to change this!).
- Sapphires are usually transparent to translucent, meaning they allow some light to pass through them. However, they can also have inclusions, which are internal flaws or impurities that affect their clarity. In general, the fewer and less visible the inclusions, the more valuable the stone. However, inclusions can add to the beauty and uniqueness of the piece.
- The cut should enhance the color and clarity of the sapphire while also suiting your personal taste and style. The most common cuts for sapphires are round, oval, cushion, pear, marquise, and emerald.
- These gemstones can be more expensive than other colored stones. The price of a sapphire depends on its carat weight, quality, and rarity, as well as the demand and supply in the market.
- Origin can determine rarity and price. Ceylon sapphires from Sri Lanka are highly valued for their bright and lively colors, ranging from blue to pink to yellow. Kashmir sapphires from India are known for their velvety blue color and exceptional clarity (but are very rare and expensive). Other notable origins include Burma, Madagascar, Australia, and Montana.
- Sapphires are often treated to enhance their color, clarity, or durability. The most commonly accepted is heat treatment, which exposes the gemstone to high temperatures to improve its color or remove unwanted inclusions. Other treatments (e.g., diffusion, irradiation, fracture filling, dyeing) can alter the color or clarity of the stone but are less common - and less accepted. You should always ask for a certificate disclosing the type and extent of treatment.
Interesting Facts
- The word sapphire comes from the Greek word sappheiros, which means blue stone (the Greeks also used the word to refer to lapis lazuli, which is not related to sapphire).
- The ancient Persians believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire, and that its reflection gave the sky its blue color.
- The ancient Hebrews regarded this stone as the most sacred of all gemstones, and believed that the Ten Commandments were engraved on tablets of sapphire.
- The Star of India, the largest and most famous star sapphire in the world, weighs 563.35 carats and is displayed at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. It was stolen in 1964 by a group of thieves, but was recovered two months later in a bus station locker in Miami.
Our Recommendation for Sapphires in Custom Jewelry Designs
Our Favorite Colored Gemstones
Sapphires come in a mesmerizing array of vibrant colors, and they have a timeless elegance that is suitable for any personality and style. They can be used for any type of jewelry, and they can also be paired with other gemstones (such as diamonds, pearls, or emeralds) to create stunning combinations. They are incredibly durable (only surpassed by diamonds) and can withstand scratches. Sapphires can stand up to everyday wear and are perfect for almost any piece.
Highly Valued
Because they are so vibrant and durable, high-quality sapphires can be more valuable than other colored gemstones. Rarity, color intensity, and clarity significantly impact their price.
Sapphires are our go-to gemstone if you're looking for high-quality, vibrant color. You get what you pay for: they are a stunning precious gemstone that will withstand the test of time.
If budget is a concern, we can explore alternative gemstones without compromising on beauty:
Aquamarine boasts tranquil sea-blue tones and exudes calm and clarity.
Blue Topaz is known for its serene blue hues and offers a similar color palette.
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Blue Spinel is often mistaken for sapphires and offers vivid blues and exceptional brilliance.
The Kris Averi Promise
We welcome you just as you are, in your authenticity and unique expression of love.
We believe love knows no bounds, limitations, or exceptions. It is all inclusive, and so are we. Here at Kris Averi, we are committed to standing behind all love, always.
We look forward to helping you make your dreams come true.
