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Loose Natural Royal Blue Sapphires

Royal blue sapphires have fascinated people for centuries owing to their stunning beauty and rich history. These precious stones, noted for their deep blue color and outstanding clarity, have been worn by royalty and have inspired legends.

What Are Royal Blue Sapphires?

Royal Blue Sapphires are renowned for their vibrant blue color, which ranges from medium to dark blue and has a velvety texture. They are primarily composed of the mineral corundum, with trace elements such as iron and titanium giving them their blue color. The word "royal blue" refers to the highest quality and most sought-after color in sapphires, which is generally linked with luxury and elegance.

Historical Significance of Royal Blue Sapphires

Royal blue sapphires have been cherished throughout history. They were believed to protect the bearer from harm and attract divine favor. In modern times, these precious stones continue to symbolize prestige and sophistication. They frequently appear in high-end jewelry and royal decorations. Many royal families, especially the British monarchy, have treasured royal blue sapphires. Princess Diana's engagement ring, now worn by Kate Middleton, features a magnificent royal blue sapphire.

Where Do They Come From?

Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Kashmir, and Madagascar are among the most well-known mining regions for royal blue sapphires. Each location produces sapphires with distinct characteristics.

Royal Blue Sapphire vs. Cornflower Blue Sapphire

Royal blue sapphires and cornflower blue sapphires are both highly valued for their outstanding blue hues, yet their color intensity and market value differ. Royal blue sapphires are distinguished by their deep, velvety blue color, which is commonly described as rich and strong. This rich saturation gives them a regal and luxurious appearance, making them highly sought after. Cornflower blue sapphires, on the other hand, have a softer, medium blue color with a faint violet undertone. Cornflower blue sapphires exhibit a delicate color that is bright and joyful.

Owing to its richer, more vivid hue, royal blue sapphires usually attract a higher price in terms of value. Since the royal blue hue is more intense than other hues, it is far more valuable on the market. Although Cornflower Blue Sapphires are still valuable, they are often less expensive than Royal Blue Sapphires. Nonetheless, a sapphire's total worth is determined by extra factors like cut, clarity, and carat weight.

Spotting Quality Royal Blue Sapphires - The 4 Cs

Among the 4 Cs of determining the value of a Royal Blue Sapphire, the color is the most significant factor. Among the 4 Cs of determining the value of a Royal Blue Sapphire, the color is the most significant factor, as it greatly influences the overall appeal and rarity of the gemstone. The depth and intensity of the blue hue can make a sapphire stand out, and it often dictates its desirability and price in the market.

1. Color

The valuation of Royal Blue Sapphires is predominantly based on their color, with the most valuable stones exhibiting a deep, vivid blue hue. The richness and intensity of the blue color are crucial, making these sapphires highly sought after and prized among gemstone collectors and enthusiasts.

2. Carat Weight

While the weight of a Royal Blue Sapphire is not the sole determinant of its value, larger stones generally command a higher price per carat. The size of the sapphire is vital for crafting exquisite jewelry, so precise measurement of the sapphire's carat weight is essential. Refer to our sapphire size guide to help determine the ideal size and weight for your jewelry pieces.

3. Cut

The cut of a Royal Blue Sapphire plays a key role in maximizing its color and brilliance. Common cuts like oval, cushion, and round are popular choices, as they enhance the sapphire's inherent beauty by reflecting light effectively and showcasing the gemstone's vivid blue hue.

4. Clarity

For Royal Blue Sapphires, clarity ratings of "very slightly included" or "slightly included" are preferred. Inclusions in these sapphires can impact their appearance, potentially altering their color or affecting their clarity. The presence of inclusions can either enhance or diminish the sapphire's overall brilliance and visual appeal.

Certification and Authenticity

Make sure the gemstone dealers you purchase from are reputable and can certify their gemstones through accredited gemological laboratories. Certified online retailers, renowned jewelry houses, and gem shows are trustworthy places to find loose natural royal blue sapphires.

Current Market Price and Investment Value of Royal Blue Sapphires

Royal blue sapphires can range significantly in price according to their size and quality. Due to their rarity and demand, precious stones may attract high prices. The market for royal blue sapphires has grown steadily owing to rising demand for precious stones. Sapphires are regarded as an investment that is safe, frequently increasing in value over time given that the availability of premium sapphires in the market is decreasing. Their long-term value is influenced by their appeal and rarity. Purchasing sapphires with certified origins and proven authenticity is advised by experts to guarantee investment potential.

Caring for Royal Blue Sapphires

Use a gentle brush and warm, soapy water to clean your sapphire on a regular basis. Avoid harsh chemicals since they may harm the stone. To avoid scratches, store your sapphire and other gemstones separately. For safekeeping, use a lined jewelry box or a soft pouch. Make sure the sapphire is safe by regularly checking the setting of your jewelry.

Ethical Sourcing - Responsible Mining and Certification

From the mine to the market, a sapphire passes through several stages, each of which has the potential to have an impact on people and the environment. Unfortunately, issues including child labor, hazardous working conditions, and environmental degradation have always plagued the gemstone industry. These issues are addressed by ethical sourcing, which places a high value on environmental sustainability, fair labor practices, and transparency.

Ethical sapphire mining practices actively minimize environmental effects. At Ceylons, conserving energy and water, along with minimizing the number of toxic compounds released to the environment are top priorities for our environmentally conscious sapphire miners at the ECOMINE. Our ECOMINE -- a "World's First" for a mine that is 100% carbon neutral and has no impact on the environment -- is the foundation of our current approach to ethically sourcing sapphires.

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.