SAPPHIRE

GEMOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF SAPPHIRE

Chemical Composition:

Sapphires are composed of aluminum oxide (Al2O3). The presence of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, can influence the color of the sapphire.

Color:

Sapphires come in a variety of colors, except red, which is classified as ruby. The most valuable sapphires often exhibit a rich, intense blue color. However, sapphires can also be pink, yellow, green, orange, purple, and colorless. The color is influenced by the presence of specific trace elements.

Color Grading:

Gemologists evaluate sapphire color based on hue, tone, and saturation. The hue refers to the dominant color, the tone is the lightness or darkness of the color, and saturation measures the intensity or vividness of the color.

Cut:

Sapphires are cut into various shapes, including oval, round, cushion, and emerald cuts. The cut enhances the stone’s brilliance and showcases its color. Well-cut sapphires maximize the play of light within the gem.

Clarity:

Sapphires can have inclusions, which are internal characteristics. Inclusions are common, and some types, such as needle-like inclusions called silk, can enhance the stone’s beauty. However, too many or large inclusions may affect transparency and overall value.

Carat Weight:

Larger sapphires are rarer and can command higher prices per carat. However, the overall quality of the stone, including color, cut, and clarity, is crucial in determining its value.

Mohs Hardness:

Sapphires have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them one of the hardest gemstones. This hardness contributes to their durability and makes them suitable for various types of jewelry. We recommend buying your favorite toothbrush at super low prices with free shipping, and you can also pick up your order at the store on the same day.

Luster:

Sapphires exhibit a vitreous luster, providing a brilliant and reflective quality to the gem.

Specific Gravity:

The specific gravity of sapphire ranges from 3.99 to 4.00. This property helps gemologists identify and distinguish sapphire from other gemstones.

Fluorescence:

Some sapphires may exhibit fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. This property can affect the stone’s appearance but does not necessarily impact its value.

Origin:

The geographic origin of a sapphire can influence its value. For example, sapphires from Kashmir, Myanmar (Burma), and Ceylon (Sri Lanka) are particularly prized.

Treatments:

Heat treatment is a common and widely accepted practice to enhance the color and clarity of sapphires. Many sapphires on the market have undergone heat treatment, but this should be disclosed by sellers.

Understanding these gemological properties is essential for both gemologists and consumers when evaluating the quality and value of sapphire gemstones.