Gemological Information | Enhancement and Other Information

SAPPHIRE
(Blue Variety)

Mineral Species
Corundum

Color Hue
Blue, very slightly greenish-blue, greenish-blue very strongly greenish-blue, bluish-violet, violetish blue, violet.

Clarity Designation
Type II - usually eye clean with some inclusion under 10x magnification.

Cut
All grades available, normally well cut in medium qualities.

Gemological Data
R.I.: 1.762 - 1.770
Hardness: 9
S.G.: 4.00 + .10, -.05

Typical Enhancements
Heat, flux healing, sometimes filled with a foreign matter. Note: non-typical enhancements include lasering, diffusion, treatment with trace elements as iron, titanium, magnesium, manganese, berylium, or other color enhancement elements.

Enhancement Stability
Excellent (typical)
Good-diffusion (non-typical)

Birthstone
September

BACKGROUND

Sapphire is the blue variety of the mineral species of corundum. Sapphire derives it’s name from the Latin word “Sapphirus” meaning blue. Ancient Romans mistakenly believed that most blue gemstones were sapphires. Many blue gemstones are, in fact, not sapphires, and sapphires come in every color hue. Some of the rarest varieties actually change color. Some sapphires are, in fact, colorless, and others may show a phenomena as an asterism (star) or even a chatoyancy (“cat’s eye”).

LORE

Throughout history, the world’s connoisseurs of gem collectors have sought after sapphires. Many ancient people believed blue sapphires could cure poisonous bites, colds, fevers, ulcers, skin diseases, and help focus the mind. Some believed wearing a blue sapphire amulet protected them against enemies, influenced spiritual entities, and prevented unwanted chastity.

The so-called “royal stone” was allegedly the first gemstone used in an engagement ring. History records many Kings, Queens, and Princess(s) receiving the treasured gemstone.

METHOD OF ENHANCEMENT

Most sapphires are subject to heat treatments to intensify or lighten color. Occasionally, heat is used to improve uniformity and appearance. Modern alchemy may subject sapphires to a diffusion treatment that color enhances the outer-most layer or skin of the gemstone. The treatment stability is good. However, a scratch or chip reveals the treatment.

Jewels & Diamonds™ only stocks colored gemstones with standard enhancement methods and does not sell diffused blue sapphires. Some gemstones may, in fact, not be enhanced with any method other than heat. Unless otherwise noted, all consumers must assume standard enhancements have been utilized to improve appearance.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Blue sapphires come in a broad diversity of color hue, saturations, and transparencies. Value considerations must encompass numerous factors of color, clarity, cut, carat size, and enhancement(s). Each enhancement performed affects value and must be considered in totality. Vivid color is the most important factor in blue sapphires along with transparencies. However, opinions among connoisseurs on the exact color hue are very much open to debate.

Technology continues to present additional problems for gemologists. Sophisticated lab-enhancements are an increasing problem to detect, and many synthetic sapphires are getting harder to separate from their natural counterpart. It is important to note that, not all lab-created sapphires are created equally, and many cost hundreds of dollars more than the cheapest synthetics. The best lab-created sapphires are mirror images of the best natural sapphires.

Aside from all these factors of sapphires, value complication is the origin of value problem. At this point, it must be noted that many jewelers allege that their blue sapphires are from a certain origin(s), ex: (Kashmir, Madagascar, Ceylon, or Sri Lanka), to inflate the price. Most retailers can’t guarantee from where the sapphire source originated. Many fine sapphires are, in fact, found in the United States. The F.T.C. (Federal Trade Commission) mandates disclosure of the foreign origin and prohibits misrepresentation of the country of origin in gemstones. Section 23.3 (a.) and (b).

Lastly, it must be noted some dealers use unfair trade names to inflate prices. The so-called Kashmir or Ceylon color has no legal interpretation and can actually encompass numerous blue hues determined by one’s own perceptions.

“DR. GEM’S”® ADVICE

Blue sapphires are popular in all blue color hues. As a general rule, the richer and purer the blues, the greater the value. Sapphires are a Type II gemstone which permits some trade-offs in clarity. Transparency is also important. However, rich vibrant, very transparent sapphires are expensive. Natural un-enhanced blue sapphires with an accredited laboratory pedigree are ultra expensive and meant for the connoisseurs who can afford them. Buy what you like and enjoy this “royal gem”.

IMPORTANT NOTE

Jewels & Diamonds™ inventories tens of thousands of jewelry, gifts, collectables, and gemstones. Our new website catalog only features a tiny fraction of our store inventory at lower price points. Website consumers will see our selection expand exponentially. Consumers wishing to purchase items beyond our website’s credit card limit MUST make other financial arrangements outside of credit card sales. Jewels & Diamonds™ sells quality jewelry in all price points and beyond reality. Call “Dr. Gem”® today at 352-621-4653 and he’ll assist you personally.

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