Sapphire Gemstone Description

Sapphire is a precious gemstone from the corundum mineral family, composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). While it is most famous for its deep blue color, sapphire occurs in a variety of other hues, except red (which is classified as ruby).

Key Characteristics of Sapphire

• Color:

• The most sought-after sapphire is deep blue.

• It also appears in pink, yellow, green, purple, orange, white, and even color-changing varieties.

• Padparadscha sapphire, a rare pink-orange variety, is one of the most valuable.

• Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale (extremely durable, second only to diamond).

• Luster: Vitreous (glassy) and highly reflective.

• Clarity: High-quality sapphires are typically eye-clean, though some may have minor inclusions such as rutile silk.

• Refractive Index: 1.76 – 1.78, giving it exceptional brilliance.

• Formation: Found in igneous, metamorphic, and alluvial deposits.

• Sources:

• Myanmar (Burma) – Produces some of the finest blue sapphires.

• Sri Lanka – Known for high-quality blue and padparadscha sapphires.

• Kashmir (India) – Famous for velvety blue sapphires (extremely rare).

• Madagascar, Thailand, Australia, and Montana (USA) – Other key sapphire sources.

Special Types of Sapphire

• Padparadscha Sapphire: A rare pinkish-orange variety highly prized for its unique color.

• Star Sapphire: Displays a six-rayed star effect (asterism) due to aligned rutile inclusions.

• Color-Change Sapphire: Shifts between blue and purple depending on lighting conditions.

Treatment & Enhancements

• Heat Treatment: Commonly used to enhance color and clarity.

• Unheated Sapphires: Extremely rare and highly valuable.

• Beryllium Treatment: Used to create vibrant orange and yellow hues.

Uses & Value

• A top choice for fine jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and royal crowns.

• The birthstone for September and a traditional engagement ring choice (e.g., Princess Dianaâ€TMs sapphire ring).

• Symbolizes wisdom, loyalty, and protection.

Would you like a comparison between sapphire and another gemstone, such as spinel or tanzanite?