Sapphire is a renowned gemstone celebrated for its beauty and durability. Belonging to the corundum family, its iconic blue color comes from the presence of trace amounts of iron and titanium.

In addition to its visual brilliance, sapphire stands out for its exceptional hardness, rated 9 on the Mohs scale, just below diamond.

This article will help you understand the characteristics of sapphire and make an informed choice when purchasing sapphire jewelry, whether it be rings, bracelets, or other items.

The Color of Sapphire

Blue sapphires can present a range of different shades and hues. Here are some of the most common color variations:

• Royal blue: A deep and intense shade of blue.
• Sky blue: A lighter, softer shade of blue, reminiscent of the sky.
• Vivid blue: A bright and radiant blue color.
• Pale blue: A light and delicate blue hue.
• Dark blue: A darker, deeper shade of blue.

Royal Blue and Cornflower: The Most Coveted Varieties

There are two highly sought-after varieties of blue sapphire:

• Royal blue sapphire: A saturated blue, either pure or with slight violet tones. Historically, this hue referred to the finest sapphires from the Mogok region of Burma, but similarly high-quality sapphires also come from Madagascar and Sri Lanka.

• Cornflower sapphire: Mainly from the Kashmir region of India, this sapphire features a delicate, slightly velvety blue color.

Pink Sapphire: A Rare Delicacy

Pink sapphire is perhaps the most delicate and soft among sapphire colors. Although similar to pink ruby in composition, pink sapphire differs slightly in its chromium oxide content.

The price of a pink sapphire varies depending on factors such as carat weight, purity, origin, and the stone’s cut.

Sapphire Cut: Art and Expertise

Lapidaries cut raw sapphires into various shapes and sizes based on the original piece and their objectives. The main goal is to bring out the most beautiful color possible while minimizing material loss. Popular cuts include the "Oval" and "Cushion" cuts, known for maximizing the color and brilliance of sapphire.

For example, the 1-carat Sapphire and Moissanite Ring in 18-Carat Gold - Toi&Moi is a stunning example of cutting artistry, elegantly combining sapphire and moissanite for a dazzling effect.

Choosing Your Sapphire: Essential Criteria

Several criteria should be considered when selecting a sapphire:

1. Color: Look for an intense, deep hue. Keep in mind that sapphires may lose some brilliance under incandescent lighting but reveal their full beauty in natural sunlight.

2. Transparency: Seek a stone with high clarity, without visible inclusions to the naked eye.

3. Cut: The sapphire's cut is crucial for maximizing its brilliance. The lapidary should choose the gem’s most beautiful part and shape it accordingly.

A particularly noteworthy piece is the 1.4-carat Blue Sapphire Ring in 18-Carat Gold - Marguerite, which combines impeccable cutting and vibrant color for a truly exceptional jewel.

In conclusion, sapphire is a fascinating and durable gemstone. Understanding its characteristics, such as color, clarity, and cut, will help you make an informed choice when purchasing sapphire jewelry. Whether you are looking for a sapphire ring, a sapphire bracelet, or any other jewelry, you will find exceptional pieces at Politains