Sapphire - 10 Things You Didn't Know About the Stone of Loyalty
Sapphire is one of the most prized gemstones in the world, known for its stunning blue hue and exceptional durability.
While many people are familiar with the sapphire stone and its extraordinary properties, there are some interesting facts that are widely unknown. In this article, we explore some of these fascinating facts about sapphires.
1. Sapphire Properties - One of the Hardest Gemstones
When it comes to the properties of sapphire, it is essential to know that it is a member of the corundum family of minerals, which also includes ruby. Corundum is one of the hardest minerals on Earth, with a score of 9 on the Mohs hardness scale (diamond is the only mineral to surpass it).
This exceptional durability makes sapphire a popular choice for jewelry, especially for pieces that will be worn regularly, like these sapphire rings, bracelets, and earrings from My Jewelry.
2. Sapphires Come in a Rainbow of Colors
While sapphire is most commonly associated with the deep blue color, it occurs in nature in a range of shades, including pink, yellow, green, purple, and even colorless. Pink sapphires, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular in the jewelry world.
Yellow sapphires are also a popular choice because they have a warm, sunny color that can brighten up any piece of jewelry. These color variations are due to the presence of different trace elements in the gemstone's crystal structure. For example, the blue hue is due to the presence of iron and titanium.
3. Sapphires Can Change Color
As well as coming in a range of colors, some sapphires can change color depending on lighting conditions. Known as color-changing sapphires, these gemstones typically appear blue or purple in natural light and turn pink or reddish-orange in incandescent light. These sapphires are highly prized by collectors and can be quite rare.
4. Sapphires Are Often Heat Treated and May Be Synthetic
Many sapphires are heat treated to improve their color and clarity. This process involves heating the gemstone at high temperatures to remove impurities and enhance color. Although heat-treated sapphires are considered natural, they can be less valuable than untreated stones.
While natural sapphires are highly prized, synthetic sapphires are created in a laboratory. These have the same chemical composition as natural sapphires and are often used in jewelry and industrial applications such as watchmaking and electronics. In fact, sapphire was one of the first gemstones to be created in a laboratory (1902).
5. Sapphire Is the Official Birthstone of September
Since 1912, sapphire has been the official birthstone of September. Sapphire stones are also associated with the 45th wedding anniversary. Legend says that if the wearer's love begins to wane, the color of the stone will gradually change from blue to green.
6. Where to Find the Most Precious Sapphires
Sapphires are found in many parts of the world: Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and the United States. However, the most famous source of sapphires is Kashmir, a region in the Himalayas that has produced some of the most stunning and valuable sapphires in history.
Since the depletion of the mine in 1887, Kashmir's top-quality sapphires are among the rarest and most beautiful of all gemstones. The finite number of gems in circulation come from this limited period of discovery more than 100 years ago!
Ceylon sapphires are some of highest quality available on market today. Ceylon is now called Sri Lanka; yet name Ceylon still used gem trade. Burmese sapphires famous for their intense 'royal' blue color unlike Kashmir sapphires which have 'velvet' blue hue. As with any gemstone more saturated color higher price.
7. Star of Adam - The World's Largest Sapphire
The world's largest sapphire was recently discovered in Sri Lanka (2016) and is known as Adam's Star. This massive sapphire weighs 1,404 carats and is estimated to be worth over 300 million dollars. Adam's Star is so large that it can't be put in jewelry and is instead on display in a museum.
8. Sapphire Has an Enduring Relationship with Royalty
Like emerald, the sapphire stone has been prized for its beauty and durability for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks believed sapphires had the power to protect the wearer from harm, while the Persians believed the earth rested on a giant sapphire, which gave the sky its blue color. In the Middle Ages, sapphire was associated with the heavens and believed to have spiritual properties.
Throughout history, sapphire was a favorite gemstone of royalty and the wealthy.
One of the most famous pieces of natural sapphire jewelry is Princess Diana's engagement ring, now worn by Princess Kate Middleton. Queen Elizabeth II also had a stunning collection of sapphires, including a necklace and earrings given as a wedding gift by her husband, Prince Philip.
9. Sapphires Have Been Used in High-Tech Applications
Because of their durability and scratch resistance, sapphire stones have been used in a variety of high-tech applications. For example, some smartphone manufacturers use sapphire as a protective cover for camera lenses and external buttons. The blue gemstone has also been used to make windows for military vehicles and in the production of certain types of electronic equipment.
10. Spiritual Meanings and Properties
In addition to their physical beauty, sapphires are believed to have spiritual meanings and properties. In some cultures, these treasures of nature are associated with wisdom, truth, and faith, much like the lapis lazuli stone.
They are also said to have a calming effect on the mind and promote mental clarity and focus. Some people believe sapphires can help balance the chakras and promote spiritual growth and transformation.
Sapphire gemstones have become an increasingly popular choice for engagement rings, especially in recent years. This trend is partly due to the desire for unique jewelry but also because sapphires are a more affordable alternative to diamonds. Many couples are attracted to their symbolism, which represents loyalty, commitment, and lasting love.
Discover Your Own Sapphire Treasure
Sapphire is a fascinating gemstone with a rich history and many interesting facts. From its range of colors to its exceptional durability, the sapphire stone is truly a remarkable gem that has captured the hearts of people for thousands of years.
Whether you're drawn to its beauty or spiritual meanings associated with this gemstone, sapphire will continue to be a popular choice for jewelry and other high-tech applications for many years to come.
We invite you to visit our online store, where you can find a wide range of exquisitely beautiful sapphire jewelry for both ladies and gentlemen.
