Sapphire is a precious gemstone that belongs to the corundum mineral family, typically known for its rich blue color, though it can also be found in a variety of other colors such as pink, yellow, and green. The most iconic and desirable sapphire is the deep, vivid blue variety, which is caused by trace amounts of iron and titanium within the crystal structure.

Sapphires are known for their hardness, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making them one of the hardest natural substances, second only to diamonds. This durability, combined with their beautiful color, makes sapphires highly prized for use in fine jewelry, especially in engagement rings.

The stone often has a smooth, lustrous finish and can feature various cuts, including oval, round, and cushion shapes, which enhance its natural brilliance. Historically, sapphires have been associated with royalty, wisdom, and nobility, and their deep blue color is often considered symbolic of loyalty and trust.