Have you always dreamed of wearing sapphire jewellery? Along with emeralds and rubies, this gemstone is classified among the most popular coloured gems worldwide.
The name of this precious gemstone is a compound of the ancient Greek word sappherios and the Hebrew word sappir, used in the description of blue stones. In the past, this stone was believed to protect the owners from envy and harm.
If interested in purchasing Sapphire jewellery, the guide below will facilitate your buying journey.
A Guide to Buying Sapphire Jewellery
Untreated vs Treated Sapphire
The primary consideration when buying such jewellery is making a distinction between untreated and treated, as well as natural vs synthetic sapphires. These gems can rarely be found in a natural, untreated form on the market, as mined sapphires aren’t of satisfying quality. On average, about 95% of the gems entering the market are treated with chemicals and heat to improve their clarity and colour.
The synthetic variants have become popular in the twentieth century owing to the flame fusion process developed by scientists. Their accessibility and price are responsible for the presence of such synthetic gemstones in a large number for sale. Natural sapphires, referring to those that have been mined, are of the greatest value. Nevertheless, their appearance is usually improved artificially by using colouring agents and glass.
As far as price is concerned, untreated gems are the costliest and most valuable owing to their rarity. In contrast, treated stones are of far lower value, with up to ten times less worth. Experienced gemologists can assess whether a gem has undergone treatment or enhancement by using their knowledge and advanced technology. When shopping for sapphire jewellery, buyers should determine their preferences by choosing between natural and treated stones.
Origin
Another aspect to consider when buying such jewellery is the origin of the stone. The majority of these stones are mined in Kenya, Australia, Madagascar, Laos, Burma, Montana, Shri Lanka, Thailand, Tanzania, Nigeria, and Vietnam. Find out more about the properties and history of sapphires. Kashmir sapphires have a legendary value, as they are of superb quality, providing the bluest colour. They were discovered in the late 1800s in India but exhausted after a century in 1920.
More than a hundred years have passed since the last time Kashmir gems were mined, meaning the remaining ones are incredibly expensive, ten times costlier than comparable stones. Although Kashmir sapphires are considered most valuable and most attractive in appearance, those mined in Shri Lanka and Madagascar look relatively similar. Burmese sapphires are also prized by collectors because of their large size and radiant royal blue colour.
Colour
Another factor that drives the value of sapphire jewellery is the colour of these gems. Most buyers consider them blue, but sapphires come in a vast range of colours, including green, purple, orange, yellow, pink, etc. Some rare pieces change colour when exposed to various lighting conditions. Colour is known to have a strong effect on the value of these gemstones.
The most valuable blue variants have either a velvety or violetish blue with tones that are medium to medium-dark. Gems of lesser value are too dark or too light. The Padparadscha variant is extremely rare, as it represents a mixture of orange and pink, which is difficult to describe. The term Padparadscha is derived from the Sanskrit language and stands for a rich lotus blossom colour. These gems range from medium pink-orange to orange-pink. Pink and purple sapphires range from pink to light purple. The latter have purple as the dominant colour, ranging from medium to dark shades of reddish to violetish purple. Yellow, orange, and green variants are available as well. The finest gems feature medium tones and vivid saturation.
Colour-changing sapphires are considered chameleons, as they change their hue under different lighting. Under daylight, these gemstones are somewhere between blue and violet. Under incandescent light, the colour ranges from violet to reddish-purple. When assessed by gem experts, the intensity of colour change determines the value. It can be weak, moderate, or strong.
Clarity
Another important factor to consider when purchasing such jewellery is clarity. The grading standards for these gemstones aren’t as strict as diamond grading standards. Some types of inclusions are more desirable than others, such as silk inclusions and rutile inclusions. For instance, silk inclusions provide the Kashmir variants with their unique appearance, whereas rutile inclusions provide the distinctive look of the star variants.
Nevertheless, it’s worth remembering that inclusions have the power to make gemstones less valuable. In case these threaten the durability of stones, the price can drop significantly. However, in some cases, such as the Kashmir variants, they increase the value by scattering light without affecting the transparency of gems. Follow this link, https://www.wikihow.com/Assess-the-Quality-of-Gemstone-Jewelry, to learn how to assess the quality of gemstone jewellery.
How to wear such jewellery?
This jewellery is supposed to be matched to your wardrobe in order to accentuate its charm. The best way to make sapphire jewellery stand out is by wearing simple clothes, which are only going to enhance its colour. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t limit yourself to colours that are neutral, such as black and white.
Sapphires can be combined with clothes in similar or complementary hues. You can wear clothes not just in similar tones but also in opposing hues both for casual and elegant looks. Naturally, you are expected to consider the occasion when making a choice of jewellery. For example, a simple pendant necklace is suitable for an everyday look, whereas a statement necklace or drop earrings are better suited for elegant looks.
In order to put an emphasis on your jewellery piece, you shouldn’t overwhelm it by adding too many other gemstones. However, you shouldn’t be afraid when it comes to experimenting with other types of jewellery. You might end up surprised by the way your new necklace or earrings look against your old pieces.
A final note
There is a fine selection of sapphire jewellery to choose from.
Look for a unique and valuable piece that’s suitable for you!
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