A top-quality blue sapphire from Sri Lanka that has been heated refers to a high-grade gemstone that has undergone a heat treatment process to enhance its color and clarity. Here's a detailed description of such a sapphire:

Origin:

• Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon) is renowned for producing some of the finest sapphires in the world, particularly famous for their vivid blue hues. Sri Lankan sapphires are highly prized for their quality, color, and rarity.

Color:

• Vibrant Blue: A top-quality blue sapphire from Sri Lanka often features a rich, deep, and vivid blue color, sometimes referred to as "Ceylon blue" or "cornflower blue." This hue is considered one of the most desirable for sapphires.

• Saturation: High-quality sapphires from Sri Lanka have excellent saturation, meaning the color is deep but not too dark, with a vivid intensity. This is often achieved through heat treatment, which helps bring out the best of the stone’s natural color.

Clarity:

• High Clarity: Sri Lankan sapphires typically boast excellent clarity, with minimal inclusions. Inclusions may still exist, but they should be barely visible to the naked eye. Some sapphires may have natural inclusions, known as "silk," but these do not detract from their beauty when properly cut.

• Heated: Heat treatment is commonly applied to enhance both clarity and color, with no significant impact on the sapphire’s durability. This treatment is widely accepted in the gemstone market and is indicated to have been applied for enhancing the sapphire's appeal.

Cut and Shape:

• Well-Cut: A high-quality sapphire will have an expertly crafted cut to maximize brilliance and color. Common shapes include oval, cushion, round, and emerald cuts, though many other shapes are possible.

• Symmetry: The cut should be symmetrical with well-defined facets to ensure optimal light reflection and sparkle.

Size and Weight:

• Carat Weight: Sri Lankan sapphires come in a range of sizes, from small accent stones to large, rare specimens that can be several carats in weight. Larger sapphires are extremely rare and highly valuable.

• Proportions: The proportions of the sapphire (depth, width, and table) are crucial for the overall aesthetic appeal, affecting its brilliance.

Durability:

• Hardness: Sapphires are second in hardness only to diamonds, rated 9 on the Mohs scale, making them incredibly durable and suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.

• Heat Treatment: The heating process used to enhance the sapphire does not negatively affect its hardness or durability, ensuring that the gemstone retains its strength.

Price:

• Premium Value: Top-quality blue sapphires from Sri Lanka, especially those with the coveted deep blue hue and minimal inclusions, command a high price in the market. Pricing will depend on factors like color, clarity, cut, and size.

Symbolism and Popularity:

• Symbolism: Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. The deep blue color is often linked with the heavens and is considered a symbol of tranquility and clarity.

• Jewelry: Sri Lankan blue sapphires are commonly used in high-end jewelry, particularly engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Their rich, lasting color and brilliance make them a timeless choice.

In summary, a top-quality blue sapphire from Sri Lanka that has been heated typically features a rich, intense blue color with excellent clarity and brilliance, achieved through heat treatment. These gemstones are highly sought after for their exceptional beauty and durability.