Sapphires are gemstones of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide) and are one of the four “precious gemstones,” along with rubies, emeralds, and diamonds. While most people associate sapphires with the classic blue color, they come in a wide range of colors, known as “fancy sapphires.” The color variation is due to the presence of trace elements within the crystal lattice during their formation. Here are some of the most common sapphire colors and varieties:
Blue Sapphire: The most well-known and traditional color of sapphire is blue. Blue sapphires can vary in shades, from pale sky blue to deep velvety blue. The finest and most sought-after blue sapphires typically come from Kashmir, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka (Ceylon).
Padparadscha Sapphire: This unique variety of sapphire exhibits a delicate blend of pink and orange hues. The name “padparadscha” is derived from the Sinhalese word for “lotus flower,” as its color is reminiscent of the flower’s pink-orange petals. Sri Lanka is the primary source for these exquisite gemstones.
Pink Sapphire: Pink sapphires come in various shades of pink, from pastel to vivid hues. These gems are popular in various jewelry designs and are prized for their feminine and elegant appearance.
Yellow Sapphire: Yellow sapphires range from pale lemon-yellow to rich golden hues. They are often associated with prosperity and are believed to bring good luck and wealth to the wearer.
Green Sapphire: Green sapphires can display a wide range of green shades, from light mint green to deep forest green. Some green sapphires may have secondary blue or yellow hues.
White Sapphire: While colorless sapphires exist, they are more commonly known as white sapphires. These gems are valued for their brilliance and are often used as diamond substitutes in jewelry.
Purple Sapphire: This variety of sapphire exhibits various shades of purple and violet. Some purple sapphires might have color zoning, displaying bands of different purple intensities.
Orange Sapphire: Orange sapphires come in vibrant shades of orange, ranging from light apricot to deep tangerine.
Color-Change Sapphire: A rare and fascinating variety of sapphire that exhibits different colors under varying lighting conditions. For example, it may appear blue under natural daylight and shift to purple or violet under incandescent light.
Star Sapphire: This type of sapphire displays a unique optical phenomenon known as asterism. It forms a star-like pattern on the surface when viewed under a direct light source. The star effect is caused by needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile within the sapphire.
Sapphires are highly prized and valued gemstones due to their beauty, durability, and rarity. Each color and variety has its unique charm, making sapphires a popular choice for various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
