Sapphires are a form of corundum, just as rubies are. The difference between the two is only color; a red sapphire is a ruby. Just where the distinction occurs is very difficult to say, so a pinkish sapphire may be called a ruby by some. They are the second hardest gemstones, just after diamonds.
The classic sapphire is a deep, vibrant blue. You will often see shades of grey or black in sapphires, which decreases the value, but overall, the darker the blue, the more valuable the sapphire, so long as you can see the color. Color should also be consistent, and free of zoning (changes in color).
Sapphires in colors other than blue are considered fancy sapphires. The most valuable of these is the Padparadscha sapphire, which is a beautiful pink-orange. Both the pink and the orange tones should be clearly evident in a Padparadscha.
Pink sapphires may sometimes be called rubies, as the exact line between a dark pink sapphire and a light red ruby is poorly defined, but generally a more purplish pink will be regarded as a sapphire, while more pure reddish-pink will be considered a ruby.
Sapphire colors continue along the spectrum to include purple, orange, yellow and green. In all colors of sapphire, watch out for brownish tones, inconsistent color, flaws, and a general lack of luster to a stone. Although they do not sparkle as much as diamonds, there should still be some life to your stone, not just color. Flaws in sapphires are sometimes referred to as silk or feathers. Large flaws may put a stone at risk for breakage. All natural sapphires, however, will have some flaws. Other kinds of flaws in sapphires may look like crystals within the stone, black specks or even cracks. Look at the stone through all sides to locate flaws. A well made setting may disguise flaws, which is nice when you are wearing your jewelry, but it’s nice to know what flaws your stone has, to ensure you have received your maximum value for your money.
Cutting is less important for sapphires than it is for diamonds, but still quite important in determining the value of the stone. The stone should be well cut, symmetrical and neither too deep nor too shallow.
Sapphires are heavier than diamonds, so a 1 carat sapphire will be smaller in dimension than a 1 carat diamond. Don’t be disappointed.
Heat is a very common treatment for sapphires, and is completely acceptable. Radiation for sapphires is less acceptable, as it is not as permanent. Oiling may be acceptable for lower quality stones, but you should know if it is there, as ultrasonic cleaning may remove the oil, causing the color to apparently fade, and the stone may need a fresh treatment later. Look for surface cracks that would allow the oil to penetrate. A newer treatment, surface diffusion, makes grayish stones appear a brilliant blue, but may be scraped off over time. This last one can be very hard to detect, and is one of the many reasons you should be certain of the dealer you are buying from.
For most stones, treatments will make very little difference to you as the owner. However, if you are looking at more valuable stones, you will want to know if the price you are paying is for a natural stone or a treated one, as the price difference is huge.
Finally, sapphires and rubies are subject to one kind of flaw that is highly desirable. These are called star sapphires. In purchasing a star sapphire, look for six bright, well centered and well defined rays, visible under direct light.
Sapphires are associated with clear thinking, truth and protection from evil. They are the anniversary stone for the 5th and 45th year of marriage and are the birthstone of September.
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