Most people associate sapphires with the classic deep blue stones, which have captivated jewellery enthusiasts for centuries. The sapphire world, however, is broader and much prettier in colour and provides a fantastic rainbow of possibilities that can transform any piece of jewellery into something extraordinary.
Understanding Sapphire Fundamentals
Sapphires are members of the corundum family and have the same mineral composition as rubies. The main distinction is the colour: a red corundum is regarded as a ruby, whereas all the other colours are considered as sapphires. The most valuable attribute of sapphire engagement rings is their high level of endurance, with a 9 rating on the Mohs hardness scale, which is only surpassed by the hardness of diamonds. This exceptional durability renders sapphire engagement rings a great option to wear on a daily basis.
The Classic Blue Sapphire
The popular sapphire of all is the old-fashioned blue sapphire, which ranges from a pale cornflower blue to a royal navy. The most valuable are of a bright, medium-dark blue tone, with great clarity. Kashmir sapphires have a legendary velvety look, and Ceylon sapphires have a light and bright blue colour that glistens.
Color-Based Types of Sapphires
Beyond blue lies an enchanting array of fancy sapphires:
Pink Sapphires:
These have become extremely popular, with a range of delicate pink pastels to hot pinks. Their value is highly dependent on the intensity of their colour.
Yellow Sapphires
This adds warmth to any piece of jewellery, whether it is a light lemon yellow or a dark golden colour. They are especially beautiful when they are in yellow or rose gold.
White Sapphires:
This offers a great diamond substitute to those on tight budgets who desire a strong but beautiful focal stone.
Padparadscha Sapphires:
These are possibly the most rare, and have a distinct pink-orange hue, which reminds one of a tropical sunset.
Green Sapphires
These are a more solid alternative, but come in a wide range of pale mint to deep forest green, suitable for nature lovers.
Colour-Changing Sapphires:
These are those that change colour according to the lighting conditions, with an appearance of blue in the day and purple in incandescent light.
Phenomenon-Based Types of Sapphires
Not every sapphire is valued because of its colour. There are a few varieties exhibiting exotic and interesting optical effects that render them unique in the gem world. These are phenomenon-based sapphires that are very collectible and very unique.
Star Sapphires
Star sapphires have a sparkling star-pattern on the surface of the stone referred to as asterism. This is due to protruding (needle-like) inclusions of rutile in the sapphire, which reflect light in such a manner that it forms a six (or in uncommon instances, twelve) ray star. Star sapphires are typically cut in the shape of cabochons so that the natural wonder is best brought out.
Parti-Coloured Sapphires
These gems are also known as bi-colour or multi-colour sapphires, and two or more different colours can be observed in one and the same stone. They may be blue and green or yellow, fading to pink, with each gem entirely original. Parti-coloured sapphires are also highly appreciated by persons desiring a one-of-a-kind gem, which is naturally occurring and which cannot be reproduced.
Trapiche Sapphires
Very uncommon are trapiche sapphires, which have a spoke-like or wheel-shaped appearance, created by the inclusions, which are organized in a natural hexagonal structure. These gems are very elusive to collectors and connoisseurs due to their very striking symmetry and natural geometry.
Colour-Zoning Sapphires
Some sapphires can also be colour zoned, and this happens when the stone has a band or spot of a different tone of the same colour. This may render these stones less precious, in a conventional sense, but some collectors appreciate the natural craftsmanship and singularity that such stones may present.
Factors Affecting Sapphire Value
In the appraisal of sapphires, their value depends on a number of factors:
The most crucial one is the colour, where the bright and saturated colours are the most expensive. Clarity is important, but the level of inclusions in sapphires is usually higher than that of diamonds. Cut influences the capability of the sapphire to portray colour and brilliance. Carat weight is a determinant of value, and larger stones are rarer exponentially. The place of origin can have a huge influence on the value, with some places yielding better stones.
Creating Your Perfect Sapphire Story
At Serli & Siroan, we’ve spent over four decades helping couples discover the perfect gemstones for their love stories. Our extensive collection includes both traditional blue sapphires and rare fancy varieties, complemented by our selection of lab-created diamonds and mined diamond rings for those seeking mixed-stone designs.
Be it vintage engagement rings that Toronto couples have valued for years or something personalized, unique, and modern, our master crafters will design heirloom engagement rings with the highest quality materials.
By picking Serli and Siroan to do your wedding rings in Toronto, you are, in fact, getting into a marriage with the most reputable jewellery stores in Toronto.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can sapphire engagement rings be worn every day?
Absolutely! Sapphires have a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes them a strong choice of engagement rings to wear on a daily basis. They last much longer than a softer stone, such as an emerald or an opal. - What is the cost difference between sapphire engagement rings and diamond rings?
Sapphires are usually a great bargain compared to similar-sized, similar-quality diamonds. Some rarer types, such as padparadscha or superior Kashmir blues, will, however, fetch diamond prices. - Is it possible to have a tailor-made engagement ring made using sapphires?
Yes! The benefit of custom sapphire engagement rings is that you will get to select the specific colour, cut, and setting that best characterizes your personal style and love story. Using the services of experienced designers ensures that your vision can be brought to reality. - What is the difference between heated and unheated sapphires?
Heat treatment is used in most cases to enhance the colour and clarity of sapphires. The treated stones are less expensive, while unheated sapphires of good natural colour are extremely prized due to their rarity. - What is the best way to take care of my sapphire jewellery?
Sapphires are not very high-maintenance. Wash them with warm soap water and a soft brush, and make sure they are professionally inspected every year to be certain that settings are secure.