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What are Blue Sapphires?

Hailing from the corundum family, the Blue Sapphire is a gem that is treasured among hearts. It carries elements of titanium and iron in their crystal structure, which influence the distinctive hues of the blue sapphire that range from a lighter and faded blue to a more vivid, and celestial blue.

September’s cherished birthstone – despite its range of colors – remains a symbol of refined elegance and is one of the most celebrated sapphires.

Blue sapphires have a rich history spanning centuries, often seen in royal jewelry. Ancient Greeks and Romans thought these gems brought wisdom and protection, while royalty worldwide cherished them as symbols of power and prestige.

Quality and Characteristics of Blue Sapphire

Selecting the ideal blue sapphire of the best quality is determined by the four factors of evaluating sapphire quality

1. Color

The blue color of sapphires is primarily created by the titanium and iron present in their crystal structure, creating a range of blue hues from light and peacock blue, to a velvety and twilight blue. Cornflower blue is one of the most desired hues in a blue sapphire, carrying a light but rare tone similar to the flower it is named after.

2. Carat

The carat weight of blue sapphires alone does not define the value of these gemstones. However, usually, the per-carat price rises with the overall weight of the stone. Larger stones with high clarity grades are relatively rare, making them more valuable compared to smaller stones.

3. Cut

A well-cut and well-balanced blue sapphire is going to determine whether or not it sparkles, displays flaws or exhibits its ideal color. Safe to say that the quality of the cut is what brings a blue sapphire to life. Oval and cushion cuts are some of the favorite cuts for blue sapphires given their flexibility and brilliance.

4. Clarity

When choosing the perfect blue sapphire, the balance between the size and clarity of the stone plays an important role. While larger stones may seem more impressive at first, the clarity of the stone affects the gem’s overall brilliance, and ultimately, the value of the stone. Clarity grades in blue sapphires typically range between ‘eye clean’ and ‘slightly included’ to ‘heavily’ or ‘severely’ included. By carefully evaluating both size and clarity, you can choose your perfect blue sapphire.

But don’t worry if this all sounds like rocket science, you can always ask for help or consult an expert!

Origins and Sources of Blue Sapphires

Some of the finest blue sapphires come from Kashmir, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar. These countries are known for their availability of sapphires that are exceptional in color and quality.

For more than 2,000 years, the ‘sapphire island’ Sri Lanka has sourced the most regal and radiant blue sapphires, famous for its deep blue hues and exceptional transparency. Kashmir, the northernmost region of India, is home to one of the world’s most coveted gems - rare velvety blue sapphires with clarity. Burmese sapphires, sourced from the Mogok area of Myanmar are renowned for their rich and intense blue hue with high clarity.

Ethical mining practices have become increasingly important in the gemstone industry as the process of mining gems continues to become more labor-intensive, emphasizing the importance of rewarding mine workers fairly and consciously. Our blue sapphires are ethically sourced from small-scale, environmentally conscious mining farms in Sri Lanka where we’ve ensured a sustainable and transparent supply chain to source fair sapphires.

Ensuring Authenticity and Certification of Blue Sapphires

The best method to authenticate sapphires is to look for flaws. Real sapphires often carry small imperfections and inclusions as they form over thousands of years. If the stone looks perfect to the naked eye, without any inclusions, it is highly likely that the stone is synthetically made.

The most reliable way to test the authenticity of blue sapphires is to purchase them from reputable jewelers certified by recognized gemological laboratories. Ceylons Munich is partnered with reputable labs such as Deutsche Stiftung Edelsteinforschung (DSEF), Swiss Gemological Institute (SSEF), Gübelin Gem Lab, GemResearch SwissLab (GRS), Gemological Institute of America (GIA), American Gemological Laboratories (AGL), and International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA) to certify and authenticate the quality of the gemstones we source through ethical and conscious mining practices.

The Value and Investment of Blue Sapphires

Blue sapphire prices are often different from one stone to another and are valued after considering several factors such as color, carat weight, origin, clarity, treatment and sparkle. Untreated blue sapphires with high saturation are usually the most popular with prices ranging from several hundred dollars for lower-quality smaller stones to $40,000 per carat for high-quality stones. Heat-treated blue sapphire’s price per carat usually range from $1,000 to $10,000.

While diamonds dominate the jewelry market presence and pricing structure, blue sapphires, as a rare, durable and popular gemstone with cultural and historical significance, offer investors the advantage of market stability and security. If you are looking to explore the investment potential of blue sapphires, read our in-depth guide to investing in your first gemstone.

Caring for Blue Sapphires

Following careful maintenance practices will ensure that your blue sapphires remain radiant for years to come.

Spray on some Isopropanol 70% and use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away any dirt or debris. After cleaning, rinse the sapphire thoroughly with clean water and dry it carefully with a soft, lint-free cloth. You can also use a gentle solution of warm water and mild soap, but the Isopropanol solution improves the shine of the stone.
Store each sapphire separately to prevent them from rubbing against each other. Despite the durability of the stone, if they are stored together the stones could still chip or scratch.

FAQ

Are blue sapphires a good investment?

Blue sapphires are considered a solid investment, especially high-quality, untreated stones with vibrant color and excellent clarity. These gemstones have steadily appreciated in value over time, particularly those from prestigious origins like Kashmir or Ceylon. Investing in certified sapphires with a well-documented provenance can enhance their long-term value. However, like all investments, it’s essential to do thorough research and consult with gem experts before purchasing.

What is the price for blue sapphire?

The price of a blue sapphire varies widely depending on factors like origin, color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. High-quality blue sapphires from Ceylon or Kashmir can fetch prices ranging from $800 to over $10,000 per carat. Lower-grade sapphires or those with inclusions can be more affordable, starting around $50 per carat. Prices are also influenced by whether the sapphire has undergone treatments, with untreated stones being more valuable.

How to tell if a blue sapphire is real?

Consider factors like color, clarity, and hardness. A genuine sapphire should have a rich and even color shade without visible zoning and be free of significant inclusions. Sapphires are also highly durable, ranking 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, so they should not scratch easily. Professional gemological testing, including checking for natural inclusions under a microscope and verifying authenticity with a lab certificate, is the most reliable method.

Why are some sapphires so cheap?

Mainly due to factors like lower quality, treatments, or synthetic origins. Sapphires with visible inclusions, uneven color, or those that have undergone extensive treatments like heat or diffusion are generally less valuable. Additionally, lab-created sapphires, which are chemically identical but produced in controlled environments, are significantly cheaper than natural stones. Always inquire about the sapphire’s origin, treatment, and certification to understand the reason behind its price.

Are blue sapphires expensive?

Blue sapphires can be expensive, particularly those that are untreated and exhibit exceptional color and clarity. Prices vary, with high-quality stones from renowned sources like Ceylon or Kashmir commanding premium prices. Factors like carat weight, cut, and overall rarity also influence cost. However, there are more affordable options available, especially for treated or lower-grade sapphires. The value of a blue sapphire often reflects its quality and rarity in the gemstone market.