When most people think of sapphires, one thing comes to mind above all else: incomparably beautiful blue. But are sapphires always blue? In fact, sapphires are much more diverse than one might assume.
Sapphires, along with rubies, belong to the “corundum” family of minerals. In its “pure” form, corundum is colorless. The color is determined by the elements present in the stone. In the case of blue sapphires, the color is caused by a combination of iron and titanium.
Yes, sapphires can also be green in color, ranging from pastel green to intense forest green.
This occurs when the stone contains triple iron and a small amount of titanium. If titanium is absent, the sapphire will even be yellow.
Yes, there are sapphires with beautiful lavender to deep purple hues. This coloration is mainly caused by vanadium.
Yes, sapphires can turn orange when a combination of iron and chromium or iron and vanadium occurs.
Yes, sapphires can also have a pink hue. This is caused by chromium. Depending on the concentration of the element, the corundum may turn red. By definition, however, the corundum is then no longer a sapphire, but a ruby.
This means: Red corundum = ruby.
Corundum of other colors = sapphire.
Padparadscha sapphires are one of the rarest, most sought-after, and most valuable sapphires in existence. It is a soft blend of pink and orange, which at its best is said to be reminiscent of a lotus flower during a tropical sunset. “Padparadscha” comes from Sinhalese (Sri Lanka) and means “lotus flower.”
The color-giving elements are chromium and iron.
Teal, often referred to as mermaid, is a mixture of blue and green that is reminiscent of a tropical ocean. This shade is becoming increasingly popular and is highly sought after for its uniqueness and elegance.
The term “parti” comes from the word “partition”. Parti sapphires are sapphires with multiple colors and distinct color zoning. Parti sapphires are particularly exciting since they are like no other, conveying pure uniqueness and individuality.
Sapphires that change color depending on the light source are very rare. Sapphires with a violet hue are most likely to change color. In most cases, the sapphire appears blue in daylight, while it appears violet in incandescent light.
Absolutely, sapphires can come in pretty much every color of the rainbow. That's why sapphires are among the most exciting gemstones of all.
