When discussing Sapphires, most people think of the iconic rich blue hue. However, you might not know Sapphires, much like diamonds, come in a spectrum of dazzling colours.
Gemstone Chemistry & Characteristics
Sapphires, and their close relative, rubies, are members of the corundum mineral species. What separates the two is the chronium (Cr) in rubies and the Iron (Fe) & Titanium (Ti) in sapphires. In it’s purest form, corundum is colourless and clear, resulting in white sapphires. White sapphire have been used as an alternative for diamonds in jewellery for many years, as previously discussed in our blog (Diamond Simulants & Synthetics).
The presence of iron produces green and yellow sapphires, and when mixed with titanium, creates blue sapphires. Trace elements of the mineral chromium produce pink sapphires. However, high levels of chromium will create a ruby. Purple sapphires get their unique colouring from the mineral vanadium. The extraordinary orange-pink hue of the padparadscha sapphire comes from the combination of chromium and iron. Padparadscha sapphires, which means “lotus flower” in Sinhalese, are most famously found in Sri Lanka.
Mythology & Legends
The history of sapphires spans across various cultures and has been associated with protection, healing and even divine power. Greek mythology told tales of sapphires linked to the god Apollo and the ancient spirit world. A beautiful story from ancient Persia, also known as Iran, depicts blue sapphires as fragments from the earth’s pedestal. In a neighbouring culture, Hindu mythology describes the roots of the wish-fulfilling Kalpavriksha tree as made of sapphire’s. Overall, sapphires reputation seems to stem from healing and well-being as well as magnificent beauty that transcends the human realm.
Interesting History:
The royalty of ancient Greece and Rome believed sapphires protected them from envy and harm. This superstition continued through to the middle ages as sapphires were thought to protect those close to you from harm.
The Ceylon sapphire, the most expensive type, is a rich blue hue often sported by members of the British royal family. King Charles previously gave a Ceylon sapphire engagement ring to Lady Diana Spencer, which was then given to Kate Middleton by Prince William.
