Meaning, Powers and History
The sapphire, a treasured member of the corundum family, holds deep meaning and a fascinating past. While any corundum gem that isn't red is classified as a sapphire, the coveted blue shade reigns supreme. Alongside shades like yellow, pink, purple, orange, and green, the vivid blues command the highest admiration.
Sapphires are valued based on carat, origin, treatment, and clarity, but it's the exceptional hue that takes precedence. In modern times, the sapphire is often associated with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It symbolises truth, sincerity, and faithfulness, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and heirloom pieces.
3 Tips on How to Distinguish Natural
Sapphires from Colour-Enhanced Ones
Sapphires, with their mesmerising hues, have captivated humanity for centuries. However, not all sapphires are created equal. Some undergo treatments to enhance their colour, clarity, or overall appearance.
Tip 1: Examine the Colour: Natural sapphires typically exhibit a range of hues and subtle variations within the stone. Look for uniformity and depth in colour, as well as the presence of natural inclusions, which can be an indication of an untreated gem. Color-enhanced sapphires, on the other hand, may display overly vibrant or unnatural shades that appear too consistent throughout the stone.
Tip 2: Observe Clarity and Transparency: Natural sapphires often have internal characteristics, known as inclusions, which are a result of their formation process. These inclusions can help authenticate the gem's natural origin. In contrast, colour-enhanced sapphires tend to have fewer inclusions or may appear too flawless, indicating the possibility of treatment. Additionally, natural sapphires may exhibit varying levels of transparency, while colour-enhanced sapphires often possess a more uniform and glass-like clarity.
Tip 3: Seek Professional Certification: When in doubt, seek the expertise of a professional gemologist or rely on certified gemological reports. These reports provide detailed information about the gem's origin, treatment history, and other essential characteristics. A reputable gemological laboratory can conduct advanced tests, such as microscopic examination or spectroscopic analysis, to determine if a sapphire has undergone colour enhancement treatments.
3 Fascinating Facts About Sapphires!
Diverse Colours: While sapphires are typically associated with deep blue hues, they actually come in a wide range of colours, including pink, yellow, green, purple, and even colourless varieties. These vibrant hues make sapphires a versatile and exciting gemstone.
Symbol of Royalty: Throughout history, sapphires have been associated with royalty and nobility. In fact, British royals often choose sapphire engagement rings. The most famous example is the stunning blue sapphire ring worn by Princess Diana and later passed down to Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.
Ancient Beliefs and Healing Properties: Sapphires have been attributed with various mystical properties. In ancient times, they were believed to protect the wearer from harm and bring good fortune. Additionally, sapphires are thought to promote mental clarity, intuition, and overall spiritual well-being.
These fascinating characteristics make sapphires not only visually captivating but also rich in history and significance.