Sapphires have been mined and used since the ancient times. The name has been derived from the Greek language meaning, the blue stone. Naturally coloured in blue, these stones have a stunning sheen and hue. Sapphires are mined all over the world and are categorised as precious stones alongside diamonds, rubies and emeralds. These stones have much of history and myths attached to them. According to the ancient Persian legends, the sapphires have lent their blue colour to the sky. Classified as a birthstone for the month of September, the precious gemstone of sapphire is associated with the sentiments of unconditional love, hope and faith. It is believed to bring joy to the wearer.
Blue is the conventional and the signature colour of sapphire stone. However, this stone is naturally produced in multiple colours, the pink sapphires having pinkish or violet tint have grown much in popularity over half a century or so. Sapphires are made of the elemental mineral called corundum. They turn pink due the presence of chromium, a rich red element. Which lends the rich red colour to the rubies as well. Pink Sapphires are mined mainly in Sri Lanka and Madagascar.
Sapphires are found in yellow colour as well, a bright and rich yellow hue can be developed by treating the stone at 2000 degree Celsius. The darker the yellow colour, the more valuable is a yellow sapphire. The hue of a sapphire stone is taken as the primary measure of its quality. No matter if the stone is blue, pink or yellow, it should be saturated with its lushness. Sapphires are very hard, next to diamonds. They rank a high nine on a durability scale from one to nine. These stones are hard enough to resist normal scratches. Sapphires have been worn for centuries. The kings of the greatest empire wore sapphire to signify their wealth. Known to signify love and fidelity, sapphire is a stone chosen by many for their special solitaires. It is most complimented by platinum.
Sapphires are said to be the most durable gemstones after diamonds, the hardest and the most durable stones on the planet. A sapphire can easily be graded as nine for its durability on a scale rating from one to ten. Sapphires are made or corundum and that is why they are very hard and scratch resistant, much more lasting than emeralds. Sapphires have been in use for centuries, worn by the elites of their times. Sapphires are often a primary choice for wedding rings and solitaires because of their promising life.
Blue sapphires have captured the collective adoration of people across centuries, and are considered a symbol of love, loyalty, power, and wisdom. Blue sapphires are the most popular choice for the engagement ring. They have been the prized possessions of emperors, kings, queens and collectors. Blue sapphires that are eye-clean or entirely free of inclusions are uncommon, especially in larger sizes.
Pink sapphires have been exponentially increasing in popularity as a modern and extremely flattering coloured gemstone. Pink sapphires are recognized as having a variety of meanings, symbolising good fortune, power through hardships, intense love and compassion, and subtle elegance. Eye-clean, untreated stones are available on the market, but the majority of these have had their clarity enhanced by heat treatment.
Yellow sapphires can range in colour from greenish yellow to orangish-yellow and everything in between. The preferred yellow sapphire colour is a medium, vibrant, canary yellow. Yellow sapphires are recognized as being the bearers of wisdom and prosperity, and play a major role in Astrology. Yellow sapphires are far more valuable if they have not been treated by high temperature heating.
Padparadscha sapphires are one of the rarest of sapphires due to unique mix of pink and orange colour. Padparadscha sapphires are mainly found in Sri Lanka, as well as Madagascar and Tanzania. Compare to natural even heated padparadscha sapphires are quite expensive if they are good quality. Padparadscha sapphires are rivalled by no other gemstone species or colour substitute.
White sapphires are pure sapphires also known as “leucosapphire,” are not really white at all, but transparent and colourless. A chemically pure white sapphire crystal is exceptionally unusual as these stones are pure corundum, meaning they have no internal minerals. Most larger, gemquality white sapphires are procured from Sri Lanka, and are commonly referred to as Ceylon white sapphires.
Star sapphires are very special and unique gemstones due to their special feature called “asterism” an added mystical element.Ideally, the star in a star sapphire should be perfectly centered when viewed from directly above, with each ray of equal length. Star sapphires occur in almost every colour seen in transparent sapphires, although yellow, orange, and green star sapphires are very uncommon.
Sapphire crystal is raw form of sapphires when mining. Crystals are solids that form by the process of a regular repeated pattern of molecules connecting together. These sapphires unpolished and uncut, and come in all colours, sizes, and shapes hence an incredible opportunity for designer to create some one-ofa-kind pieces. These crystals are underappreciated by most due to wide availability.
The blue sapphires are the most popular while pink sapphires are also chosen by a large number of people for their engagement rings. These stones have a stunning gleam and shine the most divinely. Sapphires are hard, durable, lasting and resilient. These stones have been worn by royalty in the ancient times and today are the favourites of millions. Sapphire symbolises wisdom and virtue. Sapphires are associated with love and hope. They are thought to bring joy to the wearer and so, they have gained special importance as an option for solitaires and precious jewels.