IMPERIAL JEWELRY IMPERIAL JEWELRY | Number One Jewelry Solution
At Imperial Jewelry, we believe in helping our clients understand the essence of sapphires. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of sapphires, discussing their history, characteristics, varieties, and care tips.
What is a Sapphire?
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, which is one of the hardest substances on earth, second only to diamonds. Most people associate sapphires with the rich, velvety blue color they are known for, but they come in a wide range of hues. Sapphires are typically cut into cabochon or faceted shapes to maximize their brilliance and to best showcase their unique colors.
The History of Sapphires
The allure of sapphires dates back thousands of years. In ancient civilizations, they were believed to bring wisdom, nobility, and divine favor. The stone’s name comes from the Greek word “sappheiros,” meaning “blue.” Throughout history, sapphires were favored by royalty and clergy due to their divine symbolism and durability. Today, sapphires continue to be a preferred choice for engagement rings, with the famous sapphire engagement ring worn by Princess Diana, and now by Kate Middleton, further solidifying its regal association.
The Color of Sapphires
While the most common and traditional sapphire color is blue, sapphires come in a dazzling array of shades, ranging from deep blue to lighter blue, green, yellow, and even pink. The color of a sapphire is determined by the presence of trace elements such as iron, titanium, chromium, and magnesium. Each trace element imparts a unique hue to the gemstone.
At Imperial Jewelry, we carry sapphires in an array of colors, each one as beautiful and unique as the individual who wears it. While blue remains the most popular, fancy sapphires—such as padparadscha, a rare pink-orange variety—are gaining popularity for their stunningly unique appearance.
What Makes Sapphires So Special?
Durability
Sapphires are incredibly durable gemstones, rated 9 on the Mohs hardness scale (diamonds are a 10). This makes them an ideal choice for everyday wear, as they can withstand the rigors of daily life while retaining their beauty. Whether set in a ring, bracelet, or pendant, a sapphire will continue to shine for years to come.
Clarity
Sapphires are known for their remarkable clarity, though like all gemstones, they can contain inclusions. Unlike diamonds, where inclusions can impact the overall value and appearance, sapphire inclusions (known as “fingerprints”) often enhance the stone’s character and individuality. Some sapphires even display a unique star-like pattern when viewed under direct light, known as “asterism.”
Symbolism
Sapphires have long been considered a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Throughout history, they were believed to protect their wearers from envy and harm, making them an excellent choice for a meaningful gift. Today, sapphires are often used in engagement rings to represent enduring love, making them perfect for those seeking a gemstone with both beauty and symbolism.
Sapphires vs. Other Gemstones: What Makes Them Unique?
While other gemstones, such as emeralds, rubies, and diamonds, hold their own appeal, sapphires are distinguished by their breathtaking color range and extraordinary durability. Unlike diamonds, sapphires do not have the same level of brilliance, but they compensate with a deeper, more alluring color saturation that makes them stand out.
The presence of inclusions in sapphires—while often seen as a flaw in other stones—adds depth and uniqueness to each piece. This is especially true with star sapphires, where inclusions cause light to reflect off the surface in a mesmerizing star-like effect.
Sourcing Sapphires
At Imperial Jewelry, we are committed to sourcing sapphires responsibly. The finest sapphires are mined in countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Madagascar, among others. While many sapphires are treated to enhance their color, we ensure that any treatment is disclosed to our clients to ensure transparency and trust.
Sapphire Cuts and Settings
Sapphires are available in a variety of cuts, each designed to showcase the gemstone’s natural beauty. The most common cuts are oval, round, cushion, and emerald, though other cuts such as pear, princess, and heart are also popular. The cut of a sapphire influences how light is refracted through the stone, enhancing its overall brilliance.
When selecting a setting for your sapphire, consider options that will protect the stone and enhance its natural beauty. At Imperial Jewelry, we offer a range of elegant settings, from classic prong settings to more contemporary bezel settings. Sapphire engagement rings, in particular, look stunning when paired with diamond accents or set in platinum or white gold.
Caring for Your Sapphire Jewelry
While sapphires are incredibly durable, they still require care to keep them looking their best. Here are a few tips to help you maintain the beauty of your sapphire jewelry:
- Clean Regularly – Clean your sapphire jewelry with a mild soap and water solution, using a soft cloth or brush to remove any dirt or oil.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Always remove your sapphire jewelry before using harsh cleaning products or chemicals, as they can cause damage to the metal or gemstone.
- Store Safely – When not in use, store your sapphire jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box to avoid scratches or accidental damage.
- Regular Inspections – Have your sapphire jewelry inspected regularly by a professional jeweler to ensure that the setting remains secure and that the stone is in good condition.
Why Choose Imperial Jewelry for Your Sapphire Purchase?
At Imperial Jewelry, we understand the significance of purchasing a piece of sapphire jewelry. We offer a curated selection of the highest quality sapphires, sourced from trusted suppliers around the world. Whether you’re buying a sapphire ring, pendant, or earrings, you can trust that each piece is crafted with precision and care.
We are dedicated to providing our clients with exquisite gemstones and exceptional customer service. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you select the perfect sapphire piece that suits your style, needs, and budget.
