Blue sapphires, the birthstone of September, have been cherished for centuries for their stunning beauty and durability. These precious gemstones are second only to diamonds in hardness, making them a popular choice for jewelry. This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions about blue sapphires, from their formation and characteristics to buying tips and more.
What’s Sapphire Crystal and What Does it Look Like?
Sapphire is a precious gemstone, a variety of the mineral corundum, which is an aluminum oxide. Blue sapphires are typically transparent to translucent, with a vitreous luster, and they exhibit a hexagonal crystal system. The blue color is due to the presence of iron and titanium impurities.
How is Sapphire Formed and Where is it Found?
Blue sapphires are formed under high pressure and high temperature deep within the earth’s crust. The formation process involves the crystallization of aluminum oxide into the corundum structure. Blue sapphires are found in various parts of the world, with the most significant sources being Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Madagascar.
Are Sapphire and Ruby the Same?
Sapphires and rubies are both varieties of the mineral corundum. The primary difference between them lies in their color. Rubies are red due to the presence of chromium, while sapphires are typically blue.
Can Sapphire be Lab Created?
Yes, lab-created blue sapphires are possible and are chemically identical to natural sapphires, but they are grown in a controlled environment.
Are Blue Sapphires Expensive and Why?
Blue sapphires are indeed expensive, with their price determined by their color, clarity, size, and origin. The deep, intense royal blue sapphires are the most desirable and therefore the most expensive.
Can Sapphire Get Wet, Be Scratched, or Be Polished?
Blue sapphires can get wet and are often cleaned with mild soap and water. They are second only to diamonds in hardness, making them resistant to scratches. However, they are not entirely scratch-proof. Sapphire crystals can be polished to enhance their luster and remove minor surface scratches.
How to Tell if a Blue Sapphire is Real and How Much Does it Cost?
Determining the authenticity of a blue sapphire involves examining its inclusions. Lab tests are the most reliable method. The cost of a blue sapphire varies greatly depending on its quality, size, and origin, with prices ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per carat.
Which Blue Sapphire is the Best Quality?
The best quality blue sapphires are those with a deep, intense blue color with a high level of transparency.
When is Sapphire Wedding Anniversary and Where is Sapphire Mentioned in the Bible?
The 45th wedding anniversary is traditionally known as the Sapphire Anniversary. In the Bible, sapphire is mentioned several times, notably in Exodus 24:10 and Ezekiel 1:26, where it is described as resembling the throne of God.
Can We Buy Blue Sapphire Engagement Rings and How to Buy?
Yes, blue sapphire engagement rings are a popular choice due to their durability and beauty. When buying a blue sapphire, consider its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. For a personalized quotation and expert advice, contact us.
Will Sapphire Pass Diamond Tester?
No, a blue sapphire will not pass a diamond tester. Diamond testers work by measuring thermal conductivity, and sapphires conduct heat differently than diamonds.
What are the Alternatives to Blue Sapphire?
While blue sapphires are highly prized, there are several alternatives for those seeking a similar look or properties. Tanzanite is one of the closest alternatives to blue sapphire, with its stunning deep blue color. However, it’s important to note that tanzanite is softer than sapphire, making it less suitable for pieces of jewelry that will be worn daily. Lab-created sapphires offer the same physical and optical properties as natural sapphires but at a more affordable price. Other blue gemstones such as Lodon blue topaz and Spinel can also serve as alternatives.
In conclusion, blue sapphires are a fascinating gemstone with a rich history and unique characteristics. Whether you’re considering a blue sapphire for an engagement ring or simply want to understand more about these stunning gemstones, this guide provides all the information you need. For further inquiries or to get a quotation, don’t hesitate to contact source of gems.
