Unheated padparadscha oval shape, 1.47 carats

About Sapphires

The name sapphire (Greek blue) used to be applied to various stones. Sapphires are one of the most coveted gemstones, known for their beauty, durability, and rich history. Here are some important points about sapphires:

Ancient Beliefs: Sapphires have been associated with divine favor and spiritual enlightenment across various cultures. In ancient Greece, they were worn by guidance, while Buddhists believed they brought enlightenment.

Historical Use: Sapphires have been used in royal and ecclesiastical jewelry throughout history. The British Crown Jewels include several notable sapphires.

Color Variations: Sapphires come in a wide range of colors, including blue, pink, green, white, orange, and yellow. The color is determined by the presence of trace elements such as iron, titanium, and chromium.

Star Sapphires: These are sapphires that exhibit a star-like effect due to the presence of rutile inclusions. Sri Lanka is home to many famous star sapphires, including the Star of Bombay, the Logan Sapphire, and the Black Star of Queensland.

Fine Quality Sapphires: These are considered rare and highly valued, especially those with intense color and clarity.

Primary Sources: Sapphires are mined in several countries, with significant sources in Sri Lanka, India, Australia, United States (Montana), Myanmar, Tanzania, Madagascar, Thailand, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Kenya (Padparadscha sapphires, a pink-orange variety, are often found in Sri Lanka and Madagascar).

Mineral Composition: Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, which is an aluminum oxide (Al2​O3​). The red variety of corundum is known as ruby, while all other colors are referred to as sapphires.

Hardness: Sapphires are very hard, scoring a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.

Beyond their physical beauty, sapphires are believed to possess powerful metaphysical properties:

Emotional Healing: Sapphires are said to promote emotional equilibrium, relieving stress and anxiety while boosting endorphin levels.

Mental Clarity: These gems are thought to enhance focus, creativity, and mental acuity, making them helpful for those seeking to achieve their goals.

Spiritual Growth: Sapphires are associated with spiritual awareness and intuition, guiding wearers towards their higher purpose.

Several countries contribute to the global sapphire market, each offering unique characteristics in terms of color, clarity, and quality.