Sapphire is a precious gemstone, a variety of the mineral corundum (Al₂O₃), known for its exceptional hardness, brilliance, and range of colors. While the most famous sapphire color is deep blue, sapphires can be found in nearly every hue, including pink, yellow, green, purple, orange, and colorless. The only color sapphire does not come in is red—because red corundum is classified as ruby.

Key Characteristics of Sapphire:

• Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamond.

• Luster & Clarity: High luster with excellent transparency; inclusions are common but can enhance uniqueness.

• Colors & Trace Elements:

• Blue sapphire (iron & titanium) – the most sought-after variety.

• Pink sapphire (chromium) – a rare and highly prized variation.

• Padparadscha sapphire (pink-orange) – among the rarest and most valuable sapphires.

• Yellow, green, purple, and colorless sapphires – caused by different trace elements.

• Star sapphires – display asterism (a star-like effect) due to needle-like inclusions of rutile.

Origins & Sources:

The finest sapphires come from:

• Kashmir (India): Famous for their velvety cornflower-blue color.

• Myanmar (Burma): Known for deep royal blue sapphires.

• Sri Lanka (Ceylon): Produces a wide range of colors, including the rare Padparadscha.

• Madagascar, Thailand, Australia, and Montana (USA): Also significant sapphire sources.

Treatments & Enhancements:

• Heat treatment is common to improve color and clarity.

• Unheated sapphires with rich color are rare and highly valuable.

• Synthetic sapphires (created in labs) have the same chemical properties as natural sapphires but are much cheaper.

Symbolism & Uses:

Sapphire is associated with wisdom, loyalty, and divine favor. It has been used in royal jewelry, engagement rings, and spiritual artifacts for centuries. The famous Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring worn by Princess Diana and Kate Middleton is one of the most iconic sapphire jewels in history.

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