Blue Sapphire - The Classic Precious Stone

Blue Sapphire - The Classic Precious Stone
By Ron Nash.

Blue sapphire is a gemstone that has never lost its timeless appeal. Combining excellent hardness and wear-ability with outstanding brilliance and luster, blue is the classic sapphire color. Though sapphire is available in many lovely hues, including yellow, green, pink and orange, it is the blue which remains the most popular.

Blue sapphire itself occurs in a wide range of blue tones. These range from a delicate pale blue to an inky dark blue that appears nearly black under some lighting. The important thing in sapphire is the intensity or color saturation level, regardless of the shade of blue.

Some people prefer the lighter blues, because they always appear blue, even under indoor lighting or in the evening. The color called cornflower blue, reminiscent of the flower, is particularly popular. The deep velvety blue is the most famous sapphire blue.

You will find a variety of shapes and cuts available, including cushions, ovals, pears and rounds. Round stones will often be slightly more expensive because more material is required to cut a round stone. However, round stones are very easy to adapt to standard settings. Most sapphire are faceted, but you will see some very fine sapphire cabochons as well.

Sapphires tend to have better clarity than rubies. You should look for gems that are graded VS (eye-clean) or better. This means no inclusions or defects are visible to the naked eye. You should also look for a consistent color throughout the gemstone. Too much color zoning will detract from the gem's value. Look at some expert sapphire information before you go to look at gems.

Sapphires that have not been treated in any way are especially valuable. But you will find very few untreated sapphires in the market these days -- most sapphires have been heat treated to improve the clarity and color. Compare a number of sapphires before you make your choice so you will have a better idea of how different grades are priced. In general it is better to buy a fine smaller stone than a larger gem of poor color or clarity.

The most famous blue sapphire come from Kashmir, but they are very rarely seen in the market these days. Burmese sapphire is also famous, but Burmese sapphire has become nearly as rare as the Kashmiri stones. The vast majority of fine sapphire found these days comes from Sri Lanka (Ceylon sapphire) and Madagascar, with smaller amounts of material coming from Thailand, Australia, Nigeria and Tanzania.

GemSelect is a leading online dealer in tourmaline, sapphire, ruby, spinel and zircon.

Fine Blue Sapphire

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Nash

The Sapphire - Origins, Properties and Uses

The Sapphire - Origins, Properties and Uses
By Stephen Richardson

Sapphire is the gemstone form of a mineral known as corundum, with one important caveat: A sapphire is only a sapphire unless it is red, when it is known instead as a ruby. In fact there is one more stipulation to the rule, in the case of a pinkish-orange variety of corundum called padparadscha (derived from the Sinhalese word for lotus blossom).

Colours of Sapphire

Sapphires come in all manners of colours determined by the quantity of impurities present. Elements such as chromium, iron and titanium all contribute towards shifting the hue of the otherwise transparent mineral to a vast spectrum of colours such as yellow, pink, green, orange and the well known blue variety. Sapphires can also be found in tones of grey and black.

Properties of Sapphire

Sapphire is a very strong and hardy mineral, it not only has a melting point greater than 2000 degrees C but it is also infusible and insoluble. It is also an extremely hard mineral, at five times the strength of glass it is very resilient to scratching and as such has many practical applications other than for use in sapphire jewellery such as sapphire rings.

Practical Applications of Sapphire

Whilst sapphire is a highly sought after gemstone in the jewellery industry (having been used in items such as sapphire rings, bracelets, pendants etc.), uses have also been found for it in fields such as electronics and construction. The first laser ever made was with a rod of synthetic ruby - the red cousin of sapphire.

Sources of Sapphire

Sapphire comes in two varieties; natural and synthetic. Natural sapphire must be mined... naturally, and synthetic sapphire is grown through a procedure first developed by the French chemist Auguste Verneuil in 1902, later dubbed the Verneuil process.

Advancements in the production of synthesizing sapphire mean that today sapphire can be cheaply manufactured on a very large scale, making it all the more valuable for both industrial use and also in the jewellery trade.

The most significant source of natural sapphire is from Australia and Madagascar, although different varieties can be found in deposits all over the world.

Star Sapphires

A star sapphire is so named due to the appearance of a star-shaped pattern which presents itself when the sapphire is lit by a single top-down light source. This pattern is the result of a phenomenon known as an asterism. An asterism can be found in several types of gem, in star sapphires they are due to intersecting needle-like impurities.

Star sapphire jewellery valuation is dependent on the colour and intensity of the asterism present.

Sapphire Jewellery

Natural sapphire jewellery is generally more expensive than synthetic sapphire jewellery as natural sapphires are obviously rarer, the problem however being that it can be extremely difficult to distinguish between natural and synthetic sapphires without help from an expert. The cost of the sapphire gems used in jewellery depends on several factors including colour, clarity, size, cut and quality.

As mentioned above, sapphire jewellery exists in a wide range of forms as with any precious gemstone. Highly popular are sapphire rings such as eternity rings and engagement rings.

The blue variety is perhaps the most valued form of sapphire on the market, and so often finding the highest price. Sapphires in the shade cornflower blue are the most prized and valuable, known as the 'Kashmir Sapphire' or 'Cornflower Blue Sapphire'. The pinkish-orange corundum padparadscha however can fetch higher prices than even the finest blue sapphires.

For a wide selection of Fine Jewellery including sapphire rings visit John Hollins Fine Jewellery.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Richardson

Sapphire Is September's Birthstone

Sapphire Is September's Birthstone
By: Sam Serio

If you're still young enough to remember your birthday, you probably also remember the special birthstone assigned to it. But at your age, we bet you don't really know the SIGNIFICANCE of your birthstone and what power the ancients felt would be bestowed about you by wearing it.

September Birthstone: Sapphire Birthstone Properties: Brings physical and emotional balance. Alternative Birthstone: Agate

Sapphire is the birthstone for September and the gemstone given for anniversaries of the 5th and 45th years of marriage. Taken from the Greek word for blue, "sapphirus", sapphires have a time-honored tradition with priests (who considered them symbolic of purity) and king s (who considered them symbolic of wisdom.)

Sapphires were mined as early as the 7th Century BC in India and what is now Sri Lanka. Today they are found in Sri Lanka, Australia, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Kashmir, Myanmar, Thailand, China, Madagascar, and the United States.

Against Which All Others Are Measured Sapphires, like rubies, are a variety of corundum. The sapphire's color spectrum includes pink and lavender varieties, a rare orange hue, and, of course, the velvety blue sapphire that earned the gemstone its name.

Because of the way in which corundum crystals are formed, large sapphires are rare…and valuable. The priceless 563-carat Star of India, on display at New York City's Museum of Natural History, is the largest and most famous of "star sapphires" (sapphires that are cut to reflect light from inclusions within the stone to reveal a bright six-legged star pattern).

To Your Health So strong was the power of a sapphire, it was alleged that a venomous snake put in a vessel made of sapphire would quickly die. Sapphires therefore earned the reputation as an excellent all-purpose medicine and were ingested as an antidote to poison. Additionally, sapphires were ground into powders as a remedy for everything from colic to rheumatism and mental illness.

Sapphires were also believed to be able to stop bleeding and cure disorders of the eye.

The Eyes Have It Egyptians associated the clear sapphire with the eye of Horas -- the all-seeing, all-knowing "eye in the sky" -- while the gemstone was used by the Greeks to to tap into the subconscious mind by stimulating the opening of the "third eye."

A Mirror of the Soul Husbands and wives in ancient times frequently exchanged gifts of sapphires. Although the fact that sapphires represent sincerity and faithfulness was undoubtedly the primary reason it was a popular marriage gift, another motive may have been at work: it was believed that a sapphire would not shine if worn by someone who was wicked or impure.

Sapphires were considered to be so powerful they continued to protect the original owner even after being sold.

Say it With Sapphires Clear sapphires, like diamonds, are the guardians of love. When exchanged with a loved one, sapphires enhance feelings for one another and attunes the two psyches. Sapphires have the power to banish envy and jealousy, and are said to promote chastity in virgins and fidelity in marriage.

About the Author:
For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of "How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off." This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at www.morninglightjewelry.com

Sapphire Jewelry Remains ‘Precious’ To September Babies

Sapphire Jewelry Remains ‘Precious’ To September Babies
By: Melanie Spark

The sapphire, which symbolizes clear thinking, is a precious gemstone that also serves as the birthstone for the month of September. By definition, a sapphire is a precious gem that appears as a transparent, blue form of corundum. Although various other corundum colors are considered to be sapphires, a true sapphire is recognized as being deep blue in color. Specifically, the cornflower blue color of sapphire is considered to be the best and most desirable form of sapphire. Other forms of sapphire include white, yellow and pink, each of which derive from corundum of the same color. The sapphire’s sister-gem, the ruby, is the red form of corundum and is also recognized as a precious gemstone.

When it comes to gemstone jewelry, clarity is significant. Sapphires, like all gems, can have inclusions. Genuine sapphires are highly prized, especially when they are found to be clear and in the deeper shades of blue. However, a gem-quality sapphire can be very expensive. Synthetic, which is a term used to define a gemstone that is not genuine, sapphires are one alternative that allows women to enjoy the look of a flawless gemstone without paying a hefty price tag. Much like the process of creating synthetic rubies, technology now allows for the recreation of properties similar to that of a genuine sapphire. This means that only an educated jewelry professional, in most cases, can visually distinguish between a genuine gem-quality sapphire and a synthetic sapphire.

At Almost Diamonds, a popular online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry, buyers are sure to find a dazzling selection of styles at prices that are sure to outshine the competition. From earrings and necklaces to bracelets and rings, Almost Diamonds has a variety of choices that feature both clear and colored cubic zirconia designs, along with genuine gemstones. Because the jewelry is available in sterling silver, which is a precious metal, you will be wearing something that can last a lifetime. When set in sterling silver, sapphires are especially vibrant. The soft tone of the sterling silver metal provides a perfect backdrop and setting for this precious gemstone.

Although sapphire is the birthstone for September, it can be enjoyed by every jewelry lover during every month of the year. In fact, most people will tell you that their favorite color is blue, which makes sapphire jewelry an obvious choice for anyone who favors a rich blue gemstone. Plus, adding color to a jewelry wardrobe is a terrific way to let your personality show through. Whether you are wearing your favorite pair of jeans, a business suit or a simple black dress, sapphire jewelry will compliment your outfit perfectly.

In conclusion, genuine sapphire is a highly-respected gemstone that has earned the honor of being named as one of the few precious gems in existence. If you happen to be born in the month of September, wear your sapphire jewelry with pride in knowing that you are wearing a gemstone that celebrates the month of your birth. According to some, birthstone jewelry is also a symbol of good luck. Whether you choose a genuine or synthetic sapphire, you’re sure to shine.

About the Author:
For more information on sapphire jewelry, sterling silver jewelry and sterling silver rings, visit Almost Diamonds.

Sapphire : A Gemstone Of Wisdom And Purity

Sapphire : A Gemstone Of Wisdom And Purity
By: Rose Mary

All corundum (aluminium oxides) that is not red is called sapphire. The word sapphire comes from the Greek ‘sappheiros’ meaning blue. However, sapphire does not occur only in blue color. Sapphires can be yellow, green, brown, purple or pink, depending on the presence of various types of minerals. For example, the presence of chromium produces pink sapphire and the presence of iron produces yellow and green sapphires.

Sapphires are mainly found in Sri Lanka, India and Burma. Indian sapphires come from Kashmir. They are cornflower blue in color and are regarded as the finest blue sapphires. Sri Lankan sapphires are the most common and are typically light to medium blue in color. The majority of fancy-colored sapphires available in the jewelry industry are from Sri Lanka. The most common of these fancy sapphires are yellow, or golden, and pink in color. The pinkish orange ones are the rarest and most expensive.

Sapphires are also found in Thailand and Australia, and they are dark blue in color. The gems obtained from these two countries generally belong to the category of the inexpensive to average priced range of sapphire gems in the jewelry market. Montana is the only important source of sapphires in the United States. The sapphire produced is of an attractive metallic blue in color. China, Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria have recently also become sources of sapphires.

Most of the sapphire gems being sold today have had their color enhanced, most commonly by heating. The purpose of heat treatment is to enrich the color and improve the stone’s clarity. With this method of treatment, colorless or paled-colored stones can be turned into brilliant blue or yellow ones. Depending on the original material and the type of heating process, heat treatments of gemstones can produce a variety of results. For example, sapphires that have rutile (titanium dioxide) crystals can be treated by heating and then being cooled rapidly. This would result in the rutile crystals dissolving into the corundum and the gemstone becomes clearer. Colorless or pale-colored stones after undergoing heating without the presence of oxygen would turn to rich blue color. However, if these stones are being heated in the presence of oxygen, they would turn into intense yellow color. Most yellow sapphires have been treated in this manner.

Sapphires have been of great significance to past societies. For example, the Mystical Jews considered the blue gemstones as a secret message from the beyond. The Persians believed that the world is resting on a giant sapphire and the sky is a reflection of the color of the stone. In Europe, during the Middle Ages, sapphires were believed to be an antidote against poisons. Although sapphires occur in a wide variety of colors, traditionally blue has been the most popular and valuable. The blue sapphire gem was widely used in jewelry of royalty and was considered the most appropriate stone for ecclesiastical rings. It is known to be the bestower of truth and good health.

Gemstones are considered beautiful, rare and durable. The beauty of a gemstone is undiminished with time. A gemstone could sparkle as brightly many years from now. It has lasting value and is well liked by many. Hence, beautiful pieces of gemstone jewelry are created and widely used for personal adornment as well as gifts for friends and loved ones. Presenting these beautiful items as gifts is always well loved and cherished.

Sapphire is the birthstone for the month of September. As such, a piece of jewelry with this gemstone makes a perfect elegant birthday present for those who were born in that month. Sapphire is also the anniversary stone for the 5th and 45th year. A piece of jewelry with this gemstone can also be a great anniversary present in these years. You will be amazed how this beautiful gemstone can be made into different jewelry items such as rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces, brooches and pendants. With such a wide variety of items, you will never experience any shortage of gift ideas.

Some people buy gems for the purpose of collecting them. They find these gems fascinating and enjoy having a collection of the pieces that they like.

About the Author:
Freelance Writer on various topics Please visit the URL for more information on Sapphire, Gemstones and fine Jewelry http://www.internetbizcenter.com/gemstone/Sapphire.htm More information on gemstone jewelry can be found in:- http://www.internetbizcenter.com/gemstone/Sapphire.htm

For The Love Of Sapphire Jewelry

For The Love Of Sapphire Jewelry
By: Linda Polansky

For many years, the use of sapphire was very rare in the use of jewelry according to the people. As far as they knew, sapphires only came in blue color. The existence of pink sapphires was known only to the jewelers and traders.

Sapphires are usually available in a number of colors like yellow, green, pink, purple orange, apart from blue. These are called by different names in different countries of the world. The demand for pink sapphires has risen only in the recent years.

Some of the important features of pink sapphire are:

§It is a feminine stone and represents the symbol of "the velvet glove" which indicates feminine strength.
§It has a high hardness and is very strong.
§It is a rare stone and can add variety to your jewelry.
§It is durable and can last for a number of years.
§Its expensive can exceed that of the traditional blue sapphire in certain cases.
§They are resistant to scrapping and chipping and can withstand high wear and tear.
§It retains its original color for a long time.

The hardness of the sapphire stones can be attributed to its belonging to the corundum group of minerals. These minerals are only next to diamonds in degree of their hardness. It has a hardness of Grade 9 on the MOH scale. The presence of pure aluminum oxide and other elements in varying proportions in the minerals of this group imparts different colors to the stones.

Rubies or red sapphires get that color from high percentage of chrome in them. Pink sapphires have comparatively lesser quantity of chrome in them. Blue sapphires get that color due to presence of iron in them.

Sapphires are found in different countries of the world like Sri Lanka, Burma, India Thailand, Australia and Brazil. Some of these glitter only in natural sunlight while others do only in artificial light.

Sapphires have formed important constituent of jewelry in the recent years. The cost of sapphire jewelry depends on the place from which the sapphire stones are mined. Sapphires found in Kashmir, India are believed to be of the highest value.

Hence, one must look at the size, color and transparency of the sapphire stones before purchasing the jewelry. Only then can they achieve good value for their money.

About the Author:
Linda Polansky writes about Jewerly , BlueNile promo codes and Diamond coupons

Spiritual and Healing Properties of Sapphires

Spiritual and Healing Properties of Sapphires
From A to Z Gemstones

Dark Blue Sapphires: Dark blue sapphire will allow one to use their full creative potential. it is like a mother stone because it tends to your needs as your creative juices flow so that you do not become scattered about but remain grounded. It is also good for helping solve problems, sexual relationships because it tends to make deep bonding between people and creates loyalty.

Light Blue Sapphires: Light blue sapphire is the inspiration stone. It helps to bring in new thoughts or ways of thinking. it is also an excitement stone as it helps to bring the feeling of life being exiciting and full.

Green Sapphires: Green sapphire brings a lucky sense to ones life for it allows things to run smoothly and rightly. lilac sapphire allows your creativity to flow freely however intensely. This would be used by someone who already uses their creative potential but may be feeling a bit blocked.

Orange Sapphires: Orange sapphire works on a totally different level for it does not allow you to deceive yourself at any level. It makes you look at things in their basic and pure form without distorting it to conform to what you want it to be. It helps you learn true knowledge. this is a good stone for students, teachers, writers and researchers.

Pink Sapphires: Pink sapphire allows one to surrender to another for the good of the all. it allows us to not need to be the one in control of what is happening but to allow another to take charge and trust that they will get the job done better than we can.

White Sapphires: White sapphire is a personal stone for it helps you to take care of yourself and to tend to your personal needs. it helps you to be nice to yourself and assist you in protecting yourself from needless sufferings.

Yellow Sapphires: Yellow sapphire connects you to the total you with all of your inner knowledge. at the same time it helps you to see what you do not know so you can find the answers instead of believing that you already know the answer. it also helps you to learn and retain what you have learned as you seek the answers.