The Colors of Sapphire
When you think of sapphires you automatically think of blue gemstone, maybe because sapphire has long been revered by humanity, and associated with the sky and heavens, but the colors of sapphire vary enormously, the only color not found in sapphire is red. this is because the red variety is referred to as ruby. Both sapphire and ruby are the mineral corundum.
Blue sapphires can vary from a deep dark blue to a bright vibrant blue. Naturally the brighter and more vibrant the color, the higher the price, whatever their color. But honestly it is really down to personal choice.
Most prized of the blue sapphires are from Kashmir, these set the standard for blue and are intensly saturated in color. The more affordable stones are very dark blue to almost black, or the softer more pastel hues, this includes colored sapphires.
Fancy Sapphires
The colors of sapphire are often referred to as fancy sapphires. They come in varying colors which range from shades of gold, green, orange, yellow, pink and purple.
One of the most beautiful must surely be the padparadscha sapphire, which comes in a stunning pinkish-orange. Originating from Sri Lanka the name means “lotus blossom or flower” in Sinhalese, the Sri Lankan language. You can see an image of the gemstone here Padparadscha Sapphire
Good untreated specimens of padparadscha sapphire are a rare and valuable gemstone.
Sapphire Folklore and Spiritual Meanings
Sapphires are the birthstone for September and the gem for the 5th and 45th anniversaries.
This gemstone symbolizes truth, honesty and faithfulness and nobility, so it comes as no surprise that sapphires are a popular choice in engagement rings, and other special jewelry gifts of love.
Sapphires have been associated with royalty and clergy for hundreds of years. You may remember the beautiful blue 12 carat sapphire in Princess Diana’s engagement ring, a photo and more information can be found here Royal Engagement Rings. This ring is now owned by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine (Kate) Middleton.
The ancient Greeks and Romans were convinced that blue sapphires gave protection from envy and harm. Whilst clergy during the middle ages, wore blue sapphires to symbolize Heaven.
The word sapphire is thought to be derived from the Greek word sappheiros which historians believe was originally used in reference to lapis lazuli.