The Top 10 Most Desirable Types of Sapphires
Sapphires, known for their deep, mesmerizing blues, are among the most sought-after gemstones in the world. Their allure goes beyond beauty; they symbolize wisdom, virtue, and good fortune. Sapphires come in a variety of colors and qualities, with some more desirable and valuable than others. Here are the top 10 desirable sapphires, each with unique characteristics that make them highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike
Kashmir Sapphires
Kashmir sapphires are the epitome of luxury in the sapphire world. Mined in the remote region of Kashmir in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they are renowned for their exceptional deep blue color and velvety texture. The mines have long since been depleted, making these stones exceedingly rare and even more valuable. Kashmir sapphires are the benchmark against which all other blue sapphires are measured.
Padparadscha Sapphires
Padparadscha sapphires are unique for their delicate blend of pink and orange hues, reminiscent of a tropical sunset. The name “Padparadscha” comes from the Sinhalese word for “lotus blossom,” reflecting the gem’s exquisite color. These sapphires are incredibly rare, with the finest examples hailing from Sri Lanka. Their rarity and distinct coloration make them one of the most desirable sapphires in the world.
Ceylon Sapphires
Ceylon sapphires, now more commonly known as Sri Lankan sapphires, are prized for their bright and lively blue hues. Unlike the deeper tones of Kashmir sapphires, Ceylon sapphires often display a lighter, more vibrant blue that is highly sought after. Sri Lanka has been a major source of sapphires for centuries, and the island’s stones are famous for their clarity and brilliance.
Princess Diana’s famous sapphire engagement ring features a 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire. It now rests on the hand of Princess Catherine (Kate Middleton) as her engagement ring.
Burmese Sapphires
Burmese sapphires, mined in the Mogok region of Myanmar, are famous for their rich, deep blue color, often described as “royal blue.” These sapphires are known for their intense color saturation and strong fluorescence under UV light, which enhances their vibrancy. Burmese sapphires are rare and command premium prices in the market due to their exceptional quality.
Cornflower Blue Sapphires
Cornflower blue sapphires are named for their distinctive medium blue color that closely resembles the flower of the same name. This shade is particularly prized because it represents the perfect balance between light and dark blue. Cornflower blue sapphires are typically sourced from Kashmir, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, and they are cherished for their vivid color and exceptional clarity.
Australian Sapphires
Australian sapphires, particularly those from Queensland and New South Wales, are known for their deep, inky blue to greenish-blue hues. While they may not have the same level of fame as Kashmir or Burmese sapphires, Australian sapphires are desirable for their durability and affordability. The unique color variations found in Australian sapphires make them a favorite among gem enthusiasts.
Montana Sapphire
Montana sapphires, found in the Yogo Gulch area of the United States, are celebrated for their beautiful range of colors, including blue, green, yellow, and even pink. Yogo sapphires, a specific type of Montana sapphire, are particularly famous for their cornflower blue hue and exceptional clarity. These sapphires are relatively rare and are highly valued for their unique color and American origin.
Star Sapphires
Star sapphires are a fascinating variety of sapphires that display a star-like pattern on their surface, known as asterism. This phenomenon occurs due to the presence of needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile. Star sapphires are most commonly found in blue, but they can also occur in other colors, including pink, yellow, and black. The most prized star sapphires have a sharp, well-defined star and a rich, deep color.
Teal Sapphires
Teal sapphires are a relatively new entrant in the sapphire market, gaining popularity for their stunning blend of blue and green hues. These sapphires are typically mined in Australia and Madagascar and are appreciated for their unique, ocean-like color. Teal sapphires are versatile and are becoming increasingly popular in engagement rings and fine jewelry.
Color Change Sapphires
Color change sapphires are among the rarest and most intriguing types of sapphires. These stones change color depending on the lighting, typically appearing blue in daylight and purple or violet under incandescent light. This optical phenomenon, known as pleochroism, makes color change sapphires highly desirable and collectible.
Sapphires, with their captivating beauty and rich history, continue to be one of the most cherished gemstones. Whether it’s the unparalleled blue of a Kashmir sapphire, the romantic hues of a Padparadscha, or the mysterious allure of a color change sapphire, each type has its unique appeal. Owning any of these sapphires is not just about possessing a beautiful gem; it’s about holding a piece of the earth’s most extraordinary creations.
