The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Dream Sapphire

Mon Éclats

19 July 2024

Introduction

Buying the perfect sapphire is not for the faint of heart – retailers will rip you off left and right, and sometimes even come up with pricing out of thin air. Clueless about what cut you want? Wtf does clarity mean? How do I pick whether I want heat treated or not? Feeling overwhelmed?

Whether you're shopping the perfect engagement ring, or simply a center gemstone for a piece of jewelry, sapphires are the perfect choice. Picking the perfect sapphire is surprisingly easy with our guide, ensuring you make an informed decision that you'll cherish for years to come.

What is a Sapphire?

Definition and Composition

A sapphire is a precious gemstone, a variety of the mineral corundum (in the corundum family), consisting of aluminium oxide (α-Al2O3) with trace amounts of elements such as iron, titanium, cobalt, lead, chromium, vanadium, magnesium, boron, and silicon.

The name sapphire is derived from the Latin word sapphirus, itself from the Greek word sappheiros (σάπφειρος), which referred to lapis lazuli. Sapphires are typically blue, but natural “fancy” sapphires also occur in yellow, purple, orange, and green colors; “parti sapphires” show two or more colors.

Sapphire Meaning and History

Sapphires & Royalty

Sapphires have been the darling gemstone of royalty and the well-to-do for centuries. They have gained popularity in recent years as the center stone or accent stone in bridal and fashion jewelry. Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton with his mother's 18-carat blue sapphire engagement ring. Sapphires have been cherished for generations as symbols of good fortune, virtue, holiness, and wisdom.

Princess Diana's Engagement Ring

Sapphire Symbolism

Sapphires have a wealth of historical meaning. They have been known as a prized and valuable gemstone throughout time. The word sapphire is derived from the Latin and Greek terms for “blue”. Sapphires are September's birthstone and the gem of the 45th anniversary. A sapphire jubilee occurs after 65 years. Sapphires are a symbol of good fortune, virtue, holiness, and wisdom. In the Bible, sapphires appear frequently, representing something beautiful or precious. In many cultures, blue sapphire represents the heavens.

Buying a Sapphire

1. Pick a color

While sapphires are most commonly associated with a rich blue color, they actually come in a variety of hues, including pink, yellow, green, and even white. These different colors are known as “fancy sapphires.” The presence of trace elements like iron, titanium, and chromium in the mineral corundum gives sapphires their unique colors. Sapphires are often found as natural sapphires and other natural stones, which are highly valued for their rarity and unique inclusions.

1. Blue Sapphires : The most sought-after and valuable, especially those with a blue velvet color.
2. Pink Sapphires : Increasingly popular for engagement rings, offering a romantic and feminine appeal.
3. Yellow, Green, and Purple Sapphires : More affordable options that offer a vibrant alternative to traditional colors.
4. Padparadscha Sapphires : Rare and valuable, exhibiting a unique blend of pink and orange.

Color of Sapphires, including natural blue sapphire

2. Pick a Shape

Blue Sapphire Shapes

Simple enough? Choose the shape you want.

3. The Four C's: Carat Weight

Just like diamonds, sapphires are evaluated based on four main criteria: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.

1. Color : We have gone over this, but also consider the saturation and evenness of its color. Look for a stone that has a rich, deep color without being too dark, as these qualities are highly prized in sapphire gemstones.
2. Clarity : While most sapphires contain small inclusions, the fewer and less visible they are, the more valuable the stone. Many sapphires are heat treated to enhance their clarity and color. Sapphires with no visible inclusions to the naked eye are considered top quality.
3. Cut : A well-cut sapphire reflects light beautifully, enhancing its natural brilliance and exceptional color. The cut should be symmetrical, with no uneven surfaces.
4. Carat Weight : The bigger the better… well, the bigger the more expensive.

4. Origin Matters for Natural Sapphires

The origin of a sapphire can significantly affect its value. Some of the most famous sources include:

1. Kashmir : Known for producing the finest blue sapphires with a velvety texture. Kashmir sapphires are incredibly rare and highly prized. Kashmir is a source of some of the most sought-after natural blue sapphires.
2. Burma (Myanmar) : Renowned for deep blue sapphires with a slight purplish tint. Burmese sapphires are also very valuable.
3. Sri Lanka (Ceylon) : Offers a wide range of colors, including the popular Ceylon blue sapphires, which are lighter and brighter than those from Kashmir and Burma.
4. Madagascar : A newer source, producing high-quality sapphires in various colors.

5. Certification: Ensuring Authenticity and Quality

Before purchasing a sapphire, always request a certificate from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or the AGS (American Gem Society). This certificate will confirm the sapphire's authenticity, whether it has been heat treated, and include important data around carat weight, origin, clarity, and more.

6. Heat Treated Sapphires: What You Need to Know

Most natural sapphires on the market have undergone heat treatment, when the loose gemstone is placed under high temperatures, to enhance their color and clarity. This is a common practice and generally accepted in the industry.

However, untreated sapphires are rarer and can command higher prices. Always inquire about any treatments before purchasing, as natural stones often possess unique qualities that enhance their value.

7. Make the Purchase: How to Purchase Sapphire

Now you've chosen the perfect gem (fyi, did I mention that you can search and filter for all for these variables through our site??), time to buy a sapphire. Whether you are looking for loose sapphires or set pieces, make sure to choose a reputable vendor and make sure you know your sapphires worth.

Pull out your credit card (hopefully you're earning points on this purchase) and buy the damn thing. Keep in mind that sapphire price can vary widely based on quality, origin, and characteristics such as color.

Happy Shopping!