How to Polish Raw Sapphire: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide

Who doesn’t love owning a beautiful sapphire gemstone? But you always need to know how to tell if a sapphire is real. It may take some doing, but thankfully, there is a sapphire test, so you can be sure. The allure of real sapphire is obvious. Its luxurious, rich blue color has drawn true collectors for centuries. But those who love sapphire know it also comes in a rainbow of vivid hues to tempt any sapphire lover. Yellow, orange, pink and green are but some of the exciting shades you’ll find in sapphire. With the emergence of man-made sapphire, you want to be certain you have an authentic sapphire. There are ways you can test at home to see if your sapphire is real. First, look inside the stone with a 10X loupe. If you see gas bubbles, it is synthetic sapphire. A scratch test is also performed using a material harder than sapphire (9 on the Mohs Scale) like a diamond. Stones softer than 9 will not be able to make a mark on a real sapphire. A simple breath test is often used, too, which is discussed in this article. Professional testing in a reputable gem lab is always a good idea. They have the proper instruments to thoroughly test the sapphire to determine its authenticity. LEIBISH Blue Sapphire Jewelry Set   Understanding Sapphires Earth-mined sapphires are called natural sapphires or genuine sapphires. But synthetic sapphires were created in a lab to replicate the characteristics of natural sapphires. Imitation sapphire look like but do not replicate the optical and physical properties of a natural sapphire. You’ve seen blue sapphires, but they are also found in a wide range of attractive natural colors, which are referred to as fancy-color sapphires. When natural sapphires do not have attractive coloration, they can be heat treated to improve both their color and their clarity, making them more salable.Learn more about Sapphire and Sapphire as a Birthstone Key Methods to Identify Real Sapphires Check for Flaws and Inclusions Like other natural gemstones, sapphires have inclusions which is one of the ways way professionals identify real sapphires. Expect to find feather-like inclusions and silk rutile throughout the stone. Color zoning of various strengths may be present, as are typical fingerprint inclusions. While synthetic sapphires are as hard as real sapphires, imitation look-alikes are quite softer. Perform a Breath Test Breathe on your sapphire until it completely fogs up. Count the seconds until it's completely clear—which should be one or two seconds. Longer than that, and you may have a fake sapphire. LEIBISH Royal Blue Oval Sapphire and Diamond Side Stone Ring Use the Scratch Test Make sure your scratch test is done safely—and only on your own gemstones. If the sapphire is not cut (called a rough or raw sapphire) you have greater liberty in scratch testing because the stone might be polished later on which will remove evidence of a scratch test. Nevertheless, look for the most inconspicuous spot to make a discreet test. If the sapphire is already cut an faceted, try the scratch test on the underside (pavilion) of the stone, and as close to the girdle as possible. This way it will not be noticed. With a diamond, make a minute scratch and then observe the results under a jewelers loupe. The diamond is 10 on the Mohs scale and will make a slight mark on real sapphire which is 9 on the Mohs scale. If you scratch with a softer stone—like emerald, aquamarine or topaz it will not affect a real sapphire. It will scratch an imitation sapphire, however. Observe Light Reflection In a darkened room shine a flashlight on the sapphire. A real, sapphire will reflect light that is identical to the color of the sapphire. But If it’s an imitation, meaning it is made of glass or another man-made material, it will reflect other colors besides the color of the gem. Examine for Air Bubbles Part of the manufacturing process for man-made sapphire includes the present of air bubbles. They are never present in real sapphire. But you may need to look carefully under a microscope or with a jewelers 10X magnifying loupe to see them. Take your time inspecting each surface to verify if the stone is a real sapphire—or not. Seek Professional Certification Graduate gemologists and laboratory professionals are your best sources of authentication of you sapphire. They have the expertise and the finest grading instruments to verify if you have a real sapphire, or some other man-made stones. The value and price of natural sapphires is always much greater that man made stones. With a lab report, you have the assurance in writing backed up by their authority that your stone is real, and it has the quality components identified.  LEIBISH 20.54ct Blue Sapphire  Conclusion Real sapphires are valuable and becoming more costly as time goes on. Genuine earth-mined sapphires are more rare than their man-made counterparts. So it’s important that collectors have a way of verifying their authenticity. That often means submitting the stone to a reputable grading lab. This brings peace of mind and provides proof of the sapphire being genuine and worth its value.

One of the most enduringly popular stones of all time is sapphire. As a gem, sapphire is one of the most durable gemstone materials, meaning it can take a superior polish and is resistant to damage. Daily wearing, plus contact with fragrance, creams, and so on can draw dirt to the stone. So knowing how to clean sapphire properly is essential. Understand the different types of sapphire, including lab-grown, and remember how to care for all of them. How hard are sapphires? Sapphire ranks 9 on the Mohs scale—so with good treatment, any sapphire item should look beautiful for a lifetime. There is also lab grown sapphire, created in a laboratory rather than found in the earth. While it took just a short time to create ‘lab-grown sapphire’, it took eons for natural sapphire to grow underground. It has the same hardness--9—as natural sapphire, and it has the chemical, physical, and optical properties of natural sapphire. Treat it and clean it as you would natural earth-mined sapphire. LEIBISH 20.54ct Sapphire  Understanding Sapphire Sapphire has been popular for centuries and lab-grown sapphires have also gained popularity. Earth-mined sapphire is corundum. With natural sapphire, all blue crystals are simply referred to as sapphire. But natural sapphire also comes in a wide array of vibrant colors too. Those are called fancy color sapphire. Usually when sapphire gets dirty, it comes in contact with a greasy substance, like lotions and creams, or hairspray that was used. in the case of rings, contact with normal everyday dirt is usually to blame. Preparation for Cleaning How to Clean Sapphire Ring Put the items you’ll use for cleaning your sapphire jewelry on a table, so everything is ready. You’re safest with using warm soapy water, and a baby toothbrush plus some clean lint free cloths to dry the jewelry. Most sapphire including heat-treated and untreated can be safely cleaned in ultrasonic and steam cleaners. Safety Precautions Before you consider cleaning your sapphire know what kind it is. Your sapphire may be fracture-filled, or cavity-filled, which was a popular enhancement technique some years ago. In such cases, it’s safest to use a damp lint free cloth to clean your sapphire stones. There are other precautions to consider too. Give your piece careful inspection. Does it have any loose prongs, or are the stones shaky in their setting? If so, take the piece to your jeweler to tighten up everything—and then clean your sapphire jewelry. LEIBISH Extraordinary No Heat Oval Sapphire and Diamond Side Stone Ring   Step By Step Cleaning Process Gently Clean Sapphire Gentle is the operative word for cleaning your sapphire jewelry. Sapphire is durable, but you still want to use a light touch so you don’t disrupt the setting. Brush for Intricate Areas With a bowl of warm mild-soapy water, a dry cloth and soft brush, inspect the underside of your piece and get in the recessed areas that tend to collect debris. You can also soak your item for several minutes to further loosen any hidden grime. Rinse and Dry After you’ve cleaned the item, rinse in fresh water to remove any remaining soap. Allow your item to air-dry on a clean cloth until it is completely dried. Deep Cleaning Methods Ultrasonic cleaners, like those used by professionals, are the ultimate tool for cleaning sapphire jewelry and making it sparkle like new. They can reach areas that the simple water and brush method cannot. But if your sapphire is fracture-filled or cavity-filled, do not subject it to that kind of cleaning. Those fillings reach the surface of the stone, and that filling can be removed through ultrasonic cleaning. LEIBISH Round Blue Sapphire Solitaire Pendant and Earrings  Maintenance Tips Get in the habit of scheduling time regularly to inspect your sapphire jewelry. Look for loose or missing stones, worn out prongs and so forth. Every 6-8 months give your sapphire jewelry a good cleaning using one of the methods we’ve mentioned. Not only will you keep your jewelry looking brand new, but you’ll prevent problems like missing stones or loose prongs. Proper Storage Proper storage is key to maintaining your sapphire jewelry. Cool dry jewel boxes with dividers are your top choice for sapphire jewelry storage. Keeping each piece in its separate compartment away from dust prevents unwanted dirt accumulation over time. Avoid Harsh Chemicals Common household cleaners that we use regularly can actually be harmful to your jewelry. Avoid bleaches, chlorine products, abrasives, solvents, and strong detergents. Besides risking corroding your precious metals, it may interact with the sapphire gemstone itself. Be safe, not sorry. Common Mistakes to Avoid You may think a household abrasive cleaner is just the ticket to thoroughly get every last particle of debris off your jewelry. But abrasives of any kind can damage precious metals and dull the finish on your gemstone too. If one cleaning in the ultrasonic cleaner is good—why not do it all the time?The ultrasonic cleaner was meant for occasional cleaning and may jar your stones loose if done too often. Resist the urge and keep your sapphires looking brilliant! LEIBISH 6.02 carat, Pink, Sapphire, Emerald Shape, GIA Additional Care Tips Become your own jewelry detective by examining the sapphire jewelry you wear often. Doing this will prevent damage and accidental loss of stones. You know your jewelry better than anyone—so you can tell when something doesn’t look right. Many sapphire jewelry items are costly. Consider having them insured against loss, theft, or accidental damage. You can easily add a rider to your insurance policy to cover this, whether you own or rent your home. Conclusion Regular cleaning and proper care like inspecting for loose prongs or stones is vital to protecting you sapphire jewelry. This will maintain its original beauty and hold its value. Review the methods outlined in this article, , including how to clean sapphire, to select the cleaning technique for your items. You’ll develop a deep appreciation for sapphire, and you’ll personally value it more when you regularly clean and maintain it. It will provide you with a lifetime of proud ownership! 

Our marvelous planet has gifted us with many mesmerizing specimens, otherwise known as gemstones, which are rich in color, texture, and shine. Sapphire gemstones are among the most coveted precious gemstones, which is quite understandable given the rainbow of colors in which they come and the endless possibilities they present. Some of LEIBISH's Sapphire rings   What are Sapphires? Sapphires are One of the Four Precious Gemstones. The terms stones and gemstones are thrown around quite a bit, but for the most part, while almost all gemstones originate from some mineral (besides from rare exceptions like pearls), not every stone is a gemstone, which is used almost interchangeably with the term precious. This is because some are considered more precious than others and only a select few in the category of precious gemstones.  To be clear, the separation between precious and semi-precious is actually not used any longer. Still, many differentiate between the two groups.  A stone becomes a gem once it has been transformed from its rough mineral form into a cut and polished jewel. The most lavish gemstones on the planet, diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, fall into what was called precious gemstones. All other gemstones are referred to as semi-precious. Some are far less valuable than precious gemstones while others can cost quite the pretty penny. Sapphires are the gemstone variety of the corundum mineral. The red sapphire variety is called a ruby. Sapphires are mined, and they are also manufactured for decorative purposes. These stones measure 9 on the Mohs scale in terms of hardness, making them the third hardest gemstone after diamonds and moissanite respectively. Diamonds rank 10 whereas moissanite ranks 9.5. They are therefore also used for non-decorative uses such as for infrared optical components. How Are Sapphires Formed?  Sapphires are formed under the earth’s surface over millions of years. They are the result of several processes, which include high temperatures and pressure. These are the ideal conditions for metamorphic processes in which sapphires are formed. When liquid magma found deep within the earth cools, it allows the minerals to crystalize. The finest and purest forms of corundum, otherwise known as sapphires, are these very minerals that have been recrystallized during this process that has taken millions of years. A sapphire is a mineral but it is not diamond even though a diamond is a mineral as well. They are both different types of minerals. Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, which is an aluminum oxide. Various elements found within the sapphires cause different hues. For example, iron causes blue, titanium causes yellow, and chromium causes purple. LEIBISH 8.54 ct deep blue sapphire   Where do Sapphires Come From? Sapphires are mined in locations around the globe but are mainly sourced from Cambodia, Colombia, India, and Kenya. Other areas include Afghanistan, Australia, Nepal, the United States, and Vietnam. The sapphires from the various regions differ from one another in terms of their chemical structure and appearance.   Sapphire Quality Assessment Most people know that a diamond is assessed based on four main categories better known as the 4Cs, which stand for color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. These are used to assess colored gemstones albeit quite differently. For starters, while color, cut, clarity, and carat are all looked at in an equal manner when discussing colorless diamonds they are not dealt with in this fashion when grading sapphires. The main reason for this is that the color of a sapphire takes absolute precedence over everything else. We aren’t looking at the absence of color like we do with colorless diamonds but at the presence of color. This puts it at front and center in such a way that we don’t just look to see which color it is, but what secondary colors are present, how intense the color can be seen, and how dark or light the stone is. In official terms, the color, tone, and saturation of a sapphire take priority over all other aspects including clarity, carat, and cut.  Furthermore, while high-quality sapphires are preferred, the quality is not assessed in the same way it is for a diamond. Inclusions can be present within a sapphire and it can still be considered extremely valuable. It all depends on where the flaw is found, how visible it is, and whether or not it can be seen minimally compared to the overall color and appearance of the stone. Although a sapphire’s color is its most important feature, the cut is a close second. This is because the way in which a sapphire is cut affects its color directly. Therefore, the center of a sapphire must be cut in a way that it reflects light and color. When the center of the stone is dead and does not reflect light or color, it is known as a window. Sapphires with large windows will be sold for lower prices whereas stones without windows that have full color and light reflection will sell for a higher value.  Lastly, a sapphire can be found in larger sizes, but the bigger the stone, the smaller the chances of it being a quality gem. Thus, the larger and higher quality stone you come across the rarer, and the more expensive it will be. Are sapphires rare? Stones known on the market as sapphires are not incredibly rare, however, untreated sapphires of high quality are extremely hard to come by. This is because most sapphires that are mined are of such poor quality that they never enter the gem trade to begin with. Among those stones that do make it into the trade, most are treated in some way or another. Sapphire sources are limited because of several reasons. If the mine is not profitable enough, it won’t be mined altogether. Additionally, if the source is located in a controversial area, it will be avoided and thus becomes null. LEIBISH 3 Stone Sapphire Ring   Sapphire Meanings and History Sapphires were discovered thousands of years ago. They date all the way back to the First Temple, 957 BCE, as the sapphire was one of the twelve precious stones used in the High Priest’s breastplate. It is unknown who was the first person to discover sapphires. Today sapphires are mined in countries around the world. Some of these countries include Afghanistan, Cambodia, India, Colombia, Nepal, Kenya, Australia, Vietnam, Tanzania, and the USA, as well as others. In addition to making beautiful additions to any piece of jewelry, sapphires are used to create high durability windows, wristwatch crystals and movement bearings, and can also be used for electronics.   Sapphires Prices  How much does a sapphire cost? A sapphire can cost anywhere from $20 a carat to $450 a carat to hundreds of thousands of dollars. It truly depends on the quality of the stone, whether or not it has been treated, its colors, its cut, its size, and its shape. A tiny yet high quality sapphire can cost ten times the price of a much larger stone. Therefore, each and every sapphire needs to be regarded and surveyed individually. Which sapphire is the most expensive? Deep blue sapphires of high quality tend to sell for the highest prices although flawless pink and yellow sapphires have been known to bring in quite the pretty penny as well. In terms of the most expensive sapphires ever sold at auction, there are several stones that saw prices in the millions. These include the Richelieu Sapphires, which sold for $8,358,520 and an unmounted Burmese sapphire that brought in $7,223,285.    LEIBISH 16.02 carat Oval Sapphire & Diamond Halo Multicolored Bracelet in 18K Gold   Sapphire Colors Known mostly for their blue variety, including the luxurious Royal blue sapphire, sapphires appear in an array of colors, including pink, orange, yellow, green, purple, colorless, and black. These stones make fabulous alternatives to their pricier color diamond counterparts, although some types of colored sapphires can be quite costly as well. That is one of the most attractive aspects of a sapphire; the many color choices. Color-Changing Sapphires Aside from the different colored sapphires, there are several unique types of sapphires that are singled out from the rest. One such type is the color-changing sapphire. Like its name suggests, this unusual sapphire displays different colors when it is exposed to natural lighting and artificial lighting. Which sapphire is the best, blue or yellow? The word sapphire and the color blue basically go hand in hand, so it is safe to say that blue sapphires are among the most popular varieties of sapphires. Having said that, yellow sapphires have become quite popular, especially since they are a cheaper alternative to the lovely yet pricey yellow diamond.   Different Types of Sapphires Genuine, unheated sapphires have the highest demand and, like diamonds, are found in nature. Synthetic Sapphires created in labs exist due to the rarity and high cost of real sapphires. Natural or rather unheated Sapphires are found in several colors, blue being the most recognized and popular color. Other colors include yellow, purple, orange, pink, brown, and green. There are also colorless sapphires, which can be used in place of diamonds due to their similarities. Sapphires displaying a combination of colors exist as well. What is a star sapphire? An additional special kind of sapphire is the star sapphire. As a result of the imperfections within the stone, the sapphire can display an asterism, which resembles a star, hence the name. Star sapphires are in a category of their own due to this unique feature. Such sapphires are incredibly rare and highly sought after. There are star rubies as well. LEIBISH Blue Sapphire   Sapphire Ruby Is a ruby a sapphire? The simple answer to this question is no. Though rubies are the red form of corundum, as sapphire is the blue form and padparadscha is the pinkish-orange form, they are known by different names. It is imperative to point out that two of sapphires and rubies share the exact same scientific structure. That means that a sapphire and ruby are actually the same type of stone. The only significant difference is that rubies have an exquisite red color. The ruby’s unique color was enough to make it defined as a gemstone of its own, but aside for the element that causes the red color, the two stones have the same gem structure. Only rubies with a strong red color are considered rubies while the lighter stones are known as pink sapphires.   Sapphire Birthstone The classic sapphire birthstone is blue, but the birthstone refers to all sapphires, leaving one to choose from an array of alluring sapphire colors. One with a sapphire birthstone can elect to wear a blue sapphire, green, yellow, brown, or pink. That is one of the most attractive aspects of a sapphire; the many color choices. Sapphire's set in yellow gold   There is no denying the incredible beauty of a sapphire, whether it is blue, yellow, or colorless. This highly durable substance available in a plethora of breathtaking colors makes for an irresistible jewel perfect for any piece or occasion. Like everything in life, there is always compromise and like everything else, different things appeal to different types of people. So unless you are adamant and insist on getting the largest, highest quality sapphire with the best color and are able to afford it for that matter, it is recommended to think carefully what matters most to you. Is it the size? The color? The shape? The quality? The larger a stone is, the more chances of it having inclusions. On the other hand, smaller stones are more likely to have fewer flaws. Therefore, if you want the best of both worlds you will need to be ready to pay the price. Other questions may involve the stone purchasing process, dos and don'ts, and what to look out for. Always make certain you are purchasing from a reputable business and try to take someone knowledgeable with you for backup.

Pink sapphires are a bit of a confusing term since, technically, pink sapphires are stones that are not red enough to be considered a ruby. To clarify, both sapphires and rubies are varieties of the mineral corundum. The only difference between the two gemstones is the color. Browse through our ruby jewelry. LEIBISH Ruby Pendant   While sapphires refer to the blue variety, as well as the array of other colors including pink, rubies refer to the deep crimson type of corundum. In order to be considered a ruby and not a sapphire in the United States, red corundum must display a certain color intensity level. Chromium is what gives rubies their red color. Stones with high traces of chromium are rubies, and stones with low traces fall into the pink sapphire category. Browse through our sapphire jewelry. Different styles of LEIBISH Sapphire rings   Value Determining Properties  Although pink sapphires are not considered rubies, they can still cost quite the pretty penny. Especially if they showcase an intense pink hue. That is why the color is the most important factor in determining the worth of a pink sapphire. The second most important factor is the carat sizes. In fact, since pink sapphires are quite rare, any stone over half a carat in size is kept that size in order to preserve the few large pink sapphires that exist. Stones with high clarity are also very much prized, and do exist, although one should take precautions since many of the “flawless” pink sapphires out there have been artificially treated.   Pink Sapphire Sources Pink sapphires are considered quite rare, but they were once considered far rarer. That is because they were only found in select locations around the globe including Sri Lanka and Myanmar. In the late1990s that all changed with the discovery of pink sapphires in Madagascar.   Famous Pink Sapphires One of the largest pink sapphires found to date is an oval-shaped 5.81-carat stone that was set in a ring with marquise diamonds. The value of the entire piece was estimated in 2012 at approximately $27,455. Sapphire lovers and pink gemstone enthusiasts will be pleased to hear about these stunning and unusual stones that have their own unique gleam and serve as an intriguing alternative to pink diamonds and pink emeralds. They also make terrific investment opportunities.  

When people think of rich sapphires, the beautiful blue tone is what comes to mind. However, there are actually many different colored sapphires available in the market. What is a Padparadscha Sapphire? This unique stone is a fantastic specimen of color. The stone promotes a fantastic orangy pink color. What is a Padparadscha Sapphire: The Colorful Inspiration Behind the Name In fact, the color of the stone is where the name Padparadscha came from. The Sinhalese people used it to describe an aquatic lotus blossom with a similar salmon-like color. If you ask me, it is more of a mixture of the Lotus flower and the color of a gorgeous sunset. Others have also been known to relate the color to an Indian spice called Saffron. A Record-Breaking Padparadscha Sale The finest Padparadscha sapphire I have seen was sold at Christies back in 2005 for USD 374,400. This exquisite gemstone exemplifies the beauty and rarity of what is a Padparadscha Sapphire. It was a 20.84 carat Padparadscha sapphire which fetched US$18,000 per carat at Christie’s auction house. Padparadscha vs. Diamond: A Colorful Perspective Obviously, a diamond has much higher value and luster, but doesn’t compare in terms of color face up. Diamond value is determined according to the rarity of the stone, but the colors are the essence of the stone. Most would prefer the elegant appearance of diamond, but the Padparadscha sapphire promotes an interesting approach to a fine jewelry piece. In diamond terms, the color combination matches that of a pinkish orange to an orange pink. These stones show fantastic colors and are surprisingly priced almost 40% lower than straight pink diamonds.    A 0.50 carat, Fancy Intense Orangy Pink Diamond which retails for roughly $25k compared to a 0.71 carat, Fancy Intense Pink Diamond which retails for roughly $227k   Varied Prices for Unique Stones Needless to say, the prices will vary quite dramatically depending on the different characteristics of the stone. For example, we had a gorgeous 5.31 carat, fancy orangy pink cushion-shaped diamond which retails for over $1.5 million! Sapphire’s still demand high prices as these stones are cherished for their captivating colors. For example, we had an 8.20 carat, rich pink sapphire, pear shaped stone, graded by GRS which retails for $33,000. Although the pink sapphire above has a wonderful sparkle, if it is the color you are after the options available are endless. Our company has always connected to the pink colored stones. Not too long ago our jewelry department created a beautiful pair of earrings promoting different tones of pink gemstones. LEIBISH Pink Kunzite, Coral & Diamond Drop Earrings (23.06Ct TW)   The earrings were set with two pink kunzite oval shaped stones weight in at 4.79 carats and two coral, pear shaped stones weighing in at 17.30 carats, mounted in white and rose gold. Browse through LEIBISH’s pink colored jewelry to find a wide range of pastel pink and orange mixtures at a wide price range. In conclusion, the world of gemstones offers a kaleidoscope of colors beyond the traditional blue of sapphires. Exploring the diversity, one can stumble upon the mesmerizing beauty of Padparadscha Sapphires. With their unique orangy pink hue reminiscent of a sunset or the delicate petals of a Lotus flower, these gems captivate the imagination and evoke a sense of wonder. So, the next time you encounter someone intrigued by the world of gemstones, enlighten them on what is a Padparadscha Sapphire.

The thing that most people find the most shocking about rubies and sapphires when learning about them for the first time is that they are both from the same mineral. In fact, aside from their coloring, they are essentially the same stone. Both rubies and sapphires are varieties of the mineral corundum. This mineral is found in an array of colors but is mostly known for its blue hue. Pink, orange, yellow, green, and purple sapphires exist as well.   Red Sapphires Red sapphires would exist too except they were given their very own category, rubies. The color is what sets each of these stones apart, caused by the particular internal structure of the mineral. Let us take a closer look at these two gemstones and at what sets them apart from one another. LEIBISH ruby and a white diamond   Sapphires and Rubies - Lets Talk Science The Al2O3 Crystal Crystals of pure Al2O3 are known as corundum. When in gem form, they are called colorless sapphires. The structure of this mineral consists of six oxygen atoms that surround every aluminum atom, creating a somewhat distorted octahedron. Though there are three oxygen atoms above the aluminum atom and three below, they are placed a little differently. The bottom atoms are set slightly further apart from one another than the atoms above. This is how half of the aluminum atoms are arranged. The other half is exactly the opposite. The aluminum atom is a positive ion surrounded by six negative ions. At the same time, the surrounding negative oxygen atoms receive two electrons thus ensuring there are no unoccupied energy levels. This arrangement means that every two aluminum atoms give six electrons and every three oxygen atoms get six electrons altogether in order to produce Al2O3. This allows for a crystal field to be created. This is the case for pure corundum; when the electrons are paired differently and when atoms are replaced, the makeup of the crystal changes. Click Through for more information on Sapphires LEIBISH 3.69 carat, Blue, Sapphire, Cushion Shape   Sapphires vs Rubies With pure corundum, there is no absorption of light, thus no color. When one in every hundred aluminum atoms is replaced by a chromium atom, it must donate three electrons like the oxygen atoms in order to become Cr3+ and replace Al3+. This is so that the charge stays the same. There are no partially filled orbitals or energy levels in Al3+ but there are in Cr3+. These are the very electrons that can be triggered and can lead to the absorption of light, which essentially creates the color in rubies. Traces of iron, titanium, chromium, copper, and magnesium are what upset the otherwise “perfect” makeup of pure corundum and lead to the blue color of sapphires. The cause for the different colors of corundum, thus creating sapphires and rubies, is extremely scientific yet unbeknownst to the average gemstone customer. Interestingly enough, color diamonds work similarly with various elements leading to different color diamonds. The presence of nitrogen in diamonds, for instance, is what causes yellow diamonds, and boron leads to blue diamonds. Science is fascinating and confusing, but who knew it could be so beautiful?   Shop Our Collection of Gemstones and Gemstone Jewelry Today!

While sapphires are mainly known for their blue variety, many other colors exist as well, including white. This transparent stone has been compared to a diamond due to its similarity, but there are vast differences. Still, white sapphires have a unique charm; something that sets them apart from other colorless stones and from their colored sapphire counterparts. Here is a look at this interesting stone, its benefits, and how it compares with other stones, particularly diamonds.   About the Stone The white sapphire is the colorless version of a sapphire. Sapphires are mostly recognized for their deep blue hue, but there are other colors too such as pink, yellow, green, and of course, white. At first glance the stone may look identical to some other popular colorless stones such as a diamond, a moissanite, and a topaz. However, upon further investigation one can notice the cloudier appearance of the stone; especially when held up next to another stone. White sapphires tend to display a cloudy white look. Like all sapphires, blue sapphires included, white sapphires are a form of the mineral corundum, which ranks 9 on the Moh’s scale of hardness right after diamonds. It is a rather durable stone that was created under the earth’s surface over millions of years.   White Sapphires Vs. Diamonds With its similar appearance to diamonds and substantially lower prices, the white sapphire seems like the perfect alternative to the beautiful yet pricey diamond. Putting the prestige factor aside for a moment, since one can’t help but acknowledge that diamonds are inseparable from prestige and status, there are still plenty of differences between a white sapphire and a diamond. For starters, a white sapphire does not exude brilliance, the fiery element that only a girl’s best friend is capable of showcasing. This shouldn’t really come as a surprise; since this is truly what diamonds are known for and what makes them so expensive. Still, when looking at the two stones side by side, it may come as a quite a shock what a difference the brilliance and scintillation of a diamond can make. All of a sudden the shiny transparent white sapphire looks dull next to the gleaming diamond. Aside from the brilliance though, diamonds and sapphires can look quite remarkably similar to the untrained eye. If you care less about the shine and more about the size and price of the stone, a white sapphire might be for you. Having an untraditional stone, whether it’s for an engagement ring or any other piece of jewelry, has its own special charm and appeal.   Advantages of a White Sapphire Though we have already touched upon the main characteristics of a white sapphire and how it differs from a diamond, we have yet to really focus on this remarkable stone’s many advantages. The cost factor is a standout element here. The prices for white sapphires are far lower than diamonds. This means you can get a much larger stone. Another advantage of these transparent stones is that they can be used as side stones instead of splurging on more diamonds for your piece of jewelry. They can also be used to replace diamonds that have fallen out instead of buying the real thing again or settling for cubic zirconia. Lastly, never forget that sapphires, even white sapphires, are one of the four precious gemstones, which include diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. This means that while they may not be diamonds, they are certainly rare and special. Like all gemstones, white sapphires should be selected carefully. Only go to a trusted dealer who can ensure that the stone you are buying is genuine and high quality. Serious flaws can be hiding in a stone unbeknownst to you, or it can be a complete knockoff altogether. Do your research and shop carefully. Though we don’t hold any white Sapphires, at least at the moment this was written, browse through our Sapphire jewelry collection and let us know what you like best!  

Every gemstone, or any kind of product for that matter, always has that unique version, which is rare, more beautiful or special than its counterparts in some way or another, and valuable. When talking about sapphires, the ‘star sapphire’ fits into this category, as it is unusual and highly sought after. Sapphires are well known for their blue variety, though many other colors such as pink, yellow, and green sapphires exist as well. Those familiar with this term will know that the name ‘star’ refers to the star-like phenomenon that is present in some stones. It can also appear in rubies, which are known as ‘star rubies’. The reason this phenomenon occurs in both gemstones is because for all intents and purposes, sapphires and rubies are the same gemstone. They are just different colors. To be fair, the fiery red color is a major differentiator and those stones that merely display a pale red or pink hue are known as pink sapphires and not rubies. The star shape is actually formed by intersecting needle inclusions. In general, inclusions are not something one wants in a stone, but in this case, these flaws work in the gem’s favor.   What is a Star Sapphire? About the Inclusions In order to understand the uniqueness of this stone, one must understand the complex nature of the inclusions that give it its distinct feature. A mineral called rutile, which is comprised of titanium dioxide, usually causes the inclusions. The needle-like inclusions form a star shape in a miraculous way. Star Sapphire, Courtesy of By Mitchell Gore Star Sapphire Colors Twelve Ray Stars Though six-ray star sapphires are rare enough, there is even a more unusual stone. This one displays a twelve-ray star. The phenomenon occurs when two types of inclusions are present in the stone: the rutile mineral and platelets of hematite. Rutile inclusions create a whitish star whereas hematite results in a golden star. The two stars become superimposed upon each other during the crystallization process, thus forming a twelve-ray star.   Largest Star Sapphires Large sapphires are hard to come by, but large star sapphires are nearly impossible to find. That’s why the 1404.49-carat blue star sapphire is so famous. Called ‘The Star of Adam,’ the stone was mined in the south of Sri Lanka and is the largest blue star sapphire. The second largest is the Star of India, a 563.4-carat blue star sapphire, while the ‘Star of Bombay’ is yet another example of a large blue star sapphire. ‘Black Star of Queensland’ is the largest black star sapphire. At 733 carats it is the largest gem quality black star sapphire. While sapphires are mainly assessed based on their color and weight, star sapphires are also graded according to the intensity, visibility, and color, of the asterism. If you are interested in such a stone, make certain to have this feature assessed carefully by a professional along with the other important elements of a sapphire. Browse our collection of Sapphire jewelry. 

Anyone who thought a sapphire was simply a blue gemstone could not be more wrong. While stunning blue sapphires certainly do exist and are quite popular, many other colors and forms of sapphires do as well. For instance, there are yellow sapphires, white sapphires, purple sapphires, star sapphires, and there are even color change sapphires. This last type of sapphire is comparable to a chameleon diamond, which is a natural color diamond that changes colors, hence the name. This variety displays various colors in different lighting. From blue to purple, green to gray-green, and pink to reddish-violet, these stones are rare and hard to come by thus making them valuable and prestigious. LEIBISH Royal Blue Sapphire and White diamonds Extraordinary Double Halo Ring   Color Change Sapphire Sources Sapphires are found all around the globe including Eastern Australia, China, Madagascar, and Montana in the United States. Color change sapphires in particular can be discovered in Thailand and Tanzania. Other types of sapphires can be found in Thailand as well.   Color Change Sapphire Vs. Alexandrite The color changes that can be seen in these rare sapphires are similar to color combinations that we see in some other gemstones, like alexandrite. In fact, when talking about synthetic color change sapphires, the color change is remarkably similar to that of natural alexandrite, so much so that these synthetic versions are sometimes marketed with the name ‘alexandrium’ and ‘synthetic alexandrite.’ Although these nicknames might seem harmless, they are quite misleading. Synthetic color change sapphires may look like alexandrite stones, but in terms of their structure, they are nothing alike. That’s because alexandrite is a variety of the chrysoberyl mineral and is not a sapphire, which is a completely different mineral. Therefore, this sapphire replica is more like an alexandrite simulant. LEIBISH Oval Alexandrite and Diamond Double Halo Pendant   Each and every type of sapphire is special in its own way but if you are after something truly different, a color change sapphire might be just the thing. Star sapphires are another variety that is extremely unique. These stones display a star-like shape that is breathtaking. Regardless of whichever sapphire speaks to you the most, it is imperative to do the necessary research prior to making a purchase and asking all the right questions beforehand. Take a look at our Sapphire Jewelry collection and let us know which pieces you like most!