Colors of Sapphire and Its Origins
While blue is the quintessential sapphire color, these gems actually occur in a stunning array of hues, including pink, yellow, green, orange, purple, and even colorless (white sapphire). Trace elements within the corundum crystal structure are responsible for this diverse palette; for instance, iron and titanium create blue, while chromium results in pink. Historically, Kashmir in India was famed for its velvety blue sapphires. Today, significant sources include Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Madagascar, and Australia, each known for producing sapphires with distinctive characteristics.
Taking Care of your Sapphire Jewelry
Taking care of your sapphire jewelry will help maintain its beautiful luster for years to come. Clean your sapphire pieces gently with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush, rinsing thoroughly to remove any residue. Avoid exposing sapphires to harsh chemicals or extreme temperature changes, which could potentially affect their color or durability. Store your sapphire jewelry separately in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches from harder materials like diamonds. As sapphire is a very durable gemstone (Mohs hardness of 9), it is suitable for everyday wear, but it's still wise to avoid significant impacts.
Understanding the Pricing of Sapphire's
Understanding the price of sapphires involves several key characteristics. Color is paramount, with a vivid, intense blue being the most prized. Clarity, or the absence of inclusions that affect the stone's brilliance and transparency, also significantly impacts value. Larger sapphires are rarer and thus more expensive per carat. Origin can also play a crucial role, with sapphires from historically significant regions like Kashmir often fetching the highest prices due to their exceptional quality and limited availability. Consequently, fine-quality natural sapphires can be quite valuable.
Sapphire Gemstone Meaning
Sapphire has long been revered for its profound symbolism, representing wisdom, truth, and sincerity. It is believed to promote mental clarity, focus, and inner peace, making it a stone often associated with spiritual enlightenment and insight. Historically, sapphires were worn by royalty to symbolize power and protection, as well as to attract good fortune. This majestic gemstone is also seen as a symbol of loyalty and fidelity, making it a meaningful choice for enduring relationships.
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Sapphire FAQs
What is fine jewelry?
What is fine jewelry?
Fine jewelry refers to jewelry that is made from high-quality materials such as precious metals like gold, silver, or platinum, and adorned with gemstones like diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. The term "fine" typically implies that the jewelry is of exceptional quality and craftsmanship, often featuring intricate designs and unique details. Fine jewelry is often more expensive than costume jewelry, due to the use of premium materials and the amount of time and skill required to create each piece. Fine jewelry can come in many forms, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
What is the rarest gemstone?
What is the rarest gemstone?
The rarest gemstone is painite, which was discovered in Myanmar in the 1950s by British mineralogist Arthur C. D. Pain. Once considered the rarest mineral on Earth, only a handful of painite crystals are known to exist. However, more recent discoveries have led to increased availability and reduced rarity. Painite is a reddish-brown or orange color and is highly sought after by collectors.
How are gemstones cut?
How are gemstones cut?
Gemstones are cut and faceted using specialized tools, such as diamond-tipped blades and polishing wheels. The process involves cutting rough gemstones into the desired shape and then polishing it to enhance its color and clarity. Faceting, which involves cutting precise angles into the gemstone to create facets, is also used to enhance the gemstone's brilliance and fire.
Where can you buy gemstones?
Where can you buy gemstones?
Gemstones set in rings or loose gemstones can be purchased from a variety of sources, including jewelry stores, gemstone dealers, and online retailers, including here at Brilliant Earth. Always be cautious when purchasing gemstones and look for reputable sellers who can provide certification and documentation to verify the authenticity and quality of the gemstone.