When we think of Sapphires it’s easy to picture the stunning blues that have become synonymous with the gemstone. But it’s not the only color the precious stone can be found in. In fact there are unlimited variations in sapphire color, some subtle and some drastic. Sapphires come in the many colours of the rainbow.
The traditional blue shade of Sapphire has a plethora of variations alone, with terms like electric blue, royal blue and cornflower blue being just a handful of descriptors. Here’s a look at some of the other Sapphires:
Colorless - If you want a colorless sapphire, look out for pure corundum. This untreated form of Sapphire which has no or nearly no chemical impurities, called trace elements. Good quality large pure corundums are hard to find, making them a rare jewellery treat.
Gold & Orange - Trace elements of iron and chromium together make beautifully fiery shades of sapphires in gold and orange. It’s hard to imagine that these are untreated, naturally discovered gems with such an unusual look.
Pink & Ruby Red - Pink and rouge sapphires are also available. These contain only chromium trace elements. The most unusual pink sapphires have a gentle salmon color and are called ‘Padparadscha’ sapphires. The Padparadscha is not well known by general public sapphire buyers but for connoisseurs of the gemstone it is a real treasure. Again the ‘Padparadscha’ can vary in color slightly with a more red or orange variation on the traditional salmon shade.
The combinations of trace elements that are discovered are responsible for the fascinating sapphire colors that are available. These colored stones are known as ‘fancy sapphires’. These rare sapphires are irreplaceable even when just 1 or 2 carats. The way in which trace elements naturally combine is hugely variable and therefore no two sapphires are the same. Sapphire stones are ideal for those who like multi-color fine jewelry. Imagine the possibilities!
