Blue sapphires have captivated the hearts of gemstone enthusiasts for centuries. Their stunning deep blue hue, remarkable durability, and association with royalty make them one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. Selecting the perfect blue sapphire requires careful consideration. In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips to help you choose the ideal blue sapphire.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the tips, let’s start with some fundamental knowledge about blue sapphires. Blue sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum and oxygen. The striking blue colour comes from trace elements of iron and titanium within the crystal structure. The gemstone’s colour can vary from light to dark blue, and its value is influenced by factors such as colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
1. Colour Is King
When it comes to blue sapphires, colour is the most critical factor to consider. The finest blue sapphires exhibit a rich, vivid, and pure blue colour without any secondary hues. Look for sapphires that display a velvety blue reminiscent of a deep evening sky. Avoid stones with noticeable grayish or greenish undertones, as they can significantly affect the overall beauty and value of the gem.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades the colour of blue sapphires on a scale from “Faint” to “Vivid.” The more intense and saturated the blue, the higher the value. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a role in selecting the perfect shade of blue, so choose a colour that resonates with your taste.
2. Clarity Matters
Clarity refers to the presence of internal or external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. While sapphires are generally less included than diamonds, it’s still crucial to assess their clarity. Inclusions can affect the gem’s transparency and overall appearance before you buy blue sapphire online. Look for stones with minimal visible inclusions, as they are more valuable.
Blue sapphires with high clarity are relatively rare and often come with a higher price tag. However, if the inclusions are not visible to the naked eye and do not detract from the gem’s beauty, a slightly included sapphire can be an excellent choice while being more budget-friendly.
3. Consider the Cut
The cut of a blue sapphire greatly influences its overall brilliance and visual appeal. A well-cut sapphire will display excellent brightness and sparkle. The most common cut for sapphires is the oval shape, but they can also be found in various other shapes such as round, cushion, and emerald cuts.
The cut should enhance the stone’s colour and minimize any undesirable aspects like inclusions or colour zoning. Seek sapphires with symmetrical and well-proportioned cuts that maximize the gem’s brilliance and beauty.
4. Carat Weight and Size
Carat weight determines the size of the sapphire, but it should not be the sole deciding factor. Larger sapphires are rarer and more valuable, but a smaller sapphire with exceptional colour, clarity, and cut can outshine a larger, less impressive stone. Consider your budget and personal preferences when deciding on carat weight. It’s also important to note that sapphires can be dense and heavy, so a smaller-carat weight sapphire may appear larger than a gem of the same weight in a different type of stone.
5. Budget Wisely
Setting a budget is crucial when shopping for a blue sapphire. Sapphires come in a wide range of prices, so knowing your budget beforehand will help you narrow down your options and prevent overspending. Keep in mind that a higher budget allows for more flexibility in terms of colour, size, and overall quality.
It’s essential to strike a balance between your budget and your desired characteristics in a blue sapphire. Consider what factors are most important to you, whether it’s the colour, size, or overall quality, and allocate your budget accordingly.
6. Ask for Certification
When purchasing a blue sapphire, always ask for a gemological certificate from a reputable grading laboratory like GIA or AGS. A certificate provides crucial information about the sapphire’s characteristics, including its colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight. This documentation offers transparency and assurance of the gem’s quality and authenticity.
7. Check the Origin
The origin of a blue sapphire can significantly impact its value and desirability. Sapphires from certain locations are renowned for their exceptional quality and colour. Some of the most famous sapphire origins include Kashmir, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka (Ceylon).
Kashmir sapphires, for example, are celebrated for their velvety blue colour and are considered some of the most sought-after sapphires in the world. Be aware that sapphires from these renowned origins may come with a higher price tag.
8. Inspect the Setting
Once you’ve chosen the perfect blue sapphire, please pay attention to the setting in which it will be placed. The location can enhance the gem’s beauty and protect it from damage. Consider the metal type (such as white gold, yellow gold, platinum, or rose gold) and the style of the setting.
If you’re buying an engagement ring, think about the durability of the setting, as it will endure daily wear and tear. A well-crafted set will secure the sapphire while allowing it to shine.
9. Care and Maintenance
Blue sapphires are exceptionally durable, ranking just below diamonds on the Mohs scale of hardness. However, it’s still essential to care for your sapphire to maintain its brilliance and beauty. Avoid exposing your sapphire to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and abrasive materials. Regular cleaning with mild soap and warm water and gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush can keep your sapphire looking its best.
10. Seek Professional Advice
When in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek the guidance of a reputable gemologist. They can provide expert advice, show you a variety of sapphires within your budget, and assist you in making an informed decision. Visiting a trusted person allows you to see and compare sapphires firsthand, which can be a valuable part of the selection process.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect blue sapphire requires a combination of knowledge, personal preference, and careful consideration of various factors, including colour, clarity, cut, carat weight, budget, and setting. By following these tips and seeking expert guidance when needed, you can select a blue sapphire that not only meets your expectations but also becomes a cherished and timeless piece of gemstone that you’ll treasure for years to come.