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Blue sapphires come in diversified types, each with distinct features that add to their beauty and value. Many of these stones are classified based on color, origin, and inclusions. Whether a deep royal blue or a lighter cornflower hue, each sapphire has a unique appeal.
Heat-treated blue sapphires
Heat treatment is a conventional practice in sapphire gemstone preparation that improves the stone's color and clarity. This process, which involves exposing the sapphire to high heat, intensifies the stone's natural color. While the sapphire remains more affordable, it looks more attractive to many consumers. To an uninformed eye, an enhanced stone may look like a natural one; however, such a stone cannot go unqualified by a gemstone expert. Therefore, jewelers consider heat-treated sapphires a fitting alternative for those who prefer the sapphire's natural beauty and do not feel the need to spend on a stone with a 'mine' label.
Padparadscha blue sapphires
One of the rarest sapphires is padparadscha, a stunning blend of pink and orange hues. This unique color combination sets it apart from more commonly blue sapphires. Recognized for their striking, vivid colors, padparadscha sapphires safeguard their value due to their rarity. They are primarily sourced from Sri Lanka and Madagascar. Their exclusivity coupled with desirability skyrockets their market value compared to that of ordinary blue sapphires.
Star blue sapphires
Star sapphires display asterism, a remarkable phenomenon where a star-like shape appears on the stone's surface. This effect is caused by needle-like inclusions of rutile that intersect to form a star. The color of star sapphires can vary from pale to deep blue, but they all exhibit this fascinating optical feature. Blue sapphires can also be colored in other forms, such as grey blue and teal blue, although these shades are less common.
Blue sapphires by color intensity
Deep blue blue sappires also known royal blue or cobalt blue are the most sought after and valuable. These tend to high value because of their great depth in color and clarity. Light blue sapphires, often called cornflower blue or sky blue, are also desirable but generally lower in value. The intensity of the blue color greatly influences the gemstone's market price.
The beauty and significance of blue sapphires have been cherished through different eras, cultures, and places. This gemstone is one of the most desirable colored gemstones that people opt for in jewelry, especially when they own a luxury jewelry line.
Symbolism and cultural significance
Many people from different cultures value blue sapphire for its beauty and symbolism. Blue sapphires are believed to denote wisdom, honor, and nobility. They have been a favorite among royalty for ages. As such, they were favored by kings, queens, and emperors for their stunning color and durability. The famous blue sapphire, known as the Star of India, is a perfect example of its historical and cultural significance. It's renowned for its size and origin, resides in the American Museum of Natural History. It's among the most notable blue sapphires that have been embraced in history.
Geological origin and sources
Blue sapphires form under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions within the Earth, primarily in metamorphic rock. They consist of corundum, an aluminum oxide mineral, which gives them exceptional hardness and durability. These stones can be traced back to ancient times, recognizable in the records of Sri Lanka and Kashmir. Notably, Sri Lanka was among the first regions where blue sapphires were mined. Other sources include Myanmar, Thailand, Madagascar, and Australia.
Modern design settings and trends
Blue sapphires remain a popular choice for engagement rings among contemporary customers. They favorite these sapphires because of their distinctive beauty and durability. Blue sapphires are also popularly set in signet rings. Sapphire jewelry offering ready-to-assemble settings has soared due to the popularity of the do-it-yourself market. This allows people to customize their jewelry to suit their personal style or as a thoughtful gift for a loved one. From vintage-inspired designs to modern minimalist settings, blue sapphires can accommodate a wide range of aesthetic preferences.
Blue sapphire jewelry is favored for its elegant blue color and great hardness. Known as corundum, the stone is ranked 9 on Moh's scale of hardness, only surpassed by diamond at 10. This makes it incredibly durable and suitable for everyday wear. Sapphire jewelry is a ready-to-wear ornament and is offered in different designs, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Such varieties in designs enable the wearer to select an ornament ideal for any occasion. Look at some settings for which blue sapphire jewelry is suitable.
Classy Appearance for Formal Events
Blue sapphire necklaces can help bring a touch of sophistication to formal events, such as galas and weddings. Consider a sapphire pendant resting at collarbone length, which offers a balanced and elegant look without overwhelming the outfit. Stacked up on this, a pair of matching sapphire earrings can be a stunning. Opt for sapphire pieces with diamond accents to elevate the look, as the gemstones sparkle to create a luxurious and refined appeal.
Casual Daily Wear
Blue staple sapphire rings can easily fit into casual daily wear. A simpler design, like a sapphire solitaire or a pave setting, can match effortlessly with everyday outfits. A blue sapphire ring can complement work attire, adding a pop of color without being overly flashy. This versatility permits the continuous wear of sapphires, permitting their daily adornment in varied styles.
Complementing Evening Attire
Sapphires often complement darker evening dresses, especially black or navy-blue gowns. The deep blue of the sapphire stands out against darker fabrics, adding a striking focal point to the overall outfit. An extravagant blue sapphire cocktail ring or drop earrings can transform a simple dress into an elegant evening gown. The rich color of the sapphire against darker hues creates a refined and sophisticated look.
Adventurous and Outdoor Activities
Considering their durability, blue sapphires are ideal for outdoor adventures and activities, such as hiking or boating. Simple and secure designs, such as sapphire studs or a sapphire bezel-set ring, are practical and stylish for such occasions. These settings ensure the jewelry pieces remain secured and protected, enabling the wearers to engage in vigorous activities without worrying about damage or loss.
When selecting blue sapphires, there are certain factors to consider, as appreciated by jewelers and customers alike.
Sapphires come in various qualities, from gemstones fit for royalty to industrial-grade stones. A gem-quality sapphire is usually intensely colored and relatively free of inclusions. Stones of this quality are popularly used for blue sapphire jewelry.
The region from which the sapphire is sourced can impact its value. Sapphires from Kashmir or Sri Lanka are generally more sought after than those from other regions. This is because historically, they were the earliest sources to mine these stones.
The cut of a sapphire is essential in ensuring its beauty and brilliance. Well-cut sapphires reflect light more effectively, showcasing the stone's depth of color. Popular shapes for sapphires include oval, cushion, round, and emerald cut. Each shape brings a different charm to the stone, influencing its overall aesthetic in blue sapphire rings.
As sapphires can be expensive, having the stone evaluated by a certified gemologist is prudent. A professional can confirm the stone's authenticity, quality, and treatment history. This ensures that one gets what they pay for when investing in such a precious gemstone.
A1. Yes, blue sapphire jewelry in durable settings is suitable for everyday wear. Bezel settings or protected settings can sustain daily activities.
A2. Blue sapphiires, categorized as precious stones, are more valuable than other blue stones, such as blue topaz or lapis lazuli. They are harder and more durable, making them suitable to pass through time as a gemstone for fashion.
A3. Blue sapphires are commonly treated with heat, typically around 1,700 degrees Celsius, to enhance their color and clarity.
A4. Their durability and striking color make them a symbol of love and commitment, representing wisdom and loyalty.
A5. To clean blue sapphire jewelry, gently scrub it with a soft brush and mild soapy water, then rinse and dry with a lint-free cloth.