“Sapphire” is derived from sapphirus, Latin for “blue”. The most highly valued blue sapphires are velvety blue with a strong vivid color saturation. Its saturation should be as strong as possible without darkening the color and compromising brightness. Historically, sapphires are suggestive of blue-hued gemstones closely associated to the sky. In ancient Persia, people believed that the Earth was supported by a giant sapphire that

reflects its radiant blue color onto the sky. Also in ancient times, people generally believed that blue sapphire is a symbol of the heavens, preserving good health, chastity, loyalty and truth.

 

Apart from its red counterpart known as ruby, other shades of corundum which are growingly popular, such as pink and yellow are also known as sapphires.

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Padparadscha

Padparadscha sapphire derive its name from the Sinhalese word for lotus blossom. Padparadschas are strikingly beautiful, exhibiting a unique mix of pink and orange. Like most sapphires, the more saturated the salmon colour of Padparadscha, the more valuable the gem. In some cases, medium saturation of padparadscha has also been highly regarded for its pastel colour and tone. Ultimately, it depends on the colour preference of the wearer when it comes to choosing a color.

 

Most Padparadscha sapphires are mainly found in Sri Lanka, Madagascar and Tanzania. For centuries, however, Sri Lanka has been the sole source of this coveted stone. Padparadschas are by far the rarest sapphire on the market. Many have become collectors’ items and are sold as soon as they are found. Since Padparadschas are very rare, people usually sacrifice high clarity to obtain a stone with brilliant colour. The extreme scarcity of Padparadscha also means that these stones are likely to be shaped in a way to maximise conservation of material. Therefore, unusual and asymmetrical cuts may serve as a sign of authenticity.

 

While pink sapphires are associated to meanings of creativity, love and romance, orange sapphires symbolise energy and enthusiasm. Having these combinations of meanings in Padparadscha, it is believed to bring its wearer an exciting approach to life and love.

 

Star Sapphire

Star sapphires are sapphires with silk inclusions that serves to display a celestial six-rayed star across the surface of the stone when viewed under a single light source.

 

Learn more about star sapphire here. 

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Other information:

• Zodiac birthstone for Virgo, Libra, Sagittarius

• Stone for 5th & 45th anniversary