As a gemologist with extensive experience in the field of gemstone exploration and identification, I've had the opportunity to study and evaluate sapphires from various parts of the world. Sapphires are indeed one of the most coveted gemstones, known for their vibrant blue hues and exceptional hardness, making them a favorite for both collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. Let's delve into the best locations for sapphires and the unique characteristics that make each source stand out.

Kashmir, India: The sapphires from Kashmir are renowned for their velvety blue color and are considered among the finest in the world. The mines in this region are no longer operational, which makes these stones extremely rare and valuable. The color of Kashmir sapphires is often described as a medium, slightly purplish-blue that stands out for its softness and rarity.

Burma (Myanmar): Sapphires from Burma are known for their rich, deep blue color. The mines in Mogok and Mong Hsu are particularly famous. Mogok stones are often associated with a strong, vivid blue color that can sometimes have a slight violet hue. These sapphires are highly sought after for their brilliance and color saturation.

Sri Lanka (Ceylon): Sri Lanka has a long history of gem mining, and its sapphires are celebrated for their lighter, more pastel shades of blue. The stones from this region are known for their clarity and luster. They can range from a pale blue to a deep, rich blue, with some even exhibiting a pinkish hue, which is quite unique.

Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, and India: While these regions may not be as renowned as the first three, they too have produced sapphires of notable quality. Cambodian sapphires can be found in a range of colors, including blue, yellow, and green. Thai sapphires are often darker and may have a slightly grayish tone. Vietnamese sapphires are known for their inclusions, which can sometimes add to their character. Indian sapphires can be found in various colors, but the blue sapphires from this region are typically lighter in tone.

It's important to note that the value of a sapphire is not solely determined by its geographical origin. Factors such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight significantly influence a stone's worth. Additionally, the rarity of sapphires from certain regions can also affect their price.

When evaluating sapphires, it's crucial to consider the 'four Cs': color, clarity, cut, and carat. The color should be vibrant and even, without any visible inclusions or blemishes. A well-cut sapphire will maximize its brilliance and fire, while the carat weight will determine its size and, to some extent, its value.

In conclusion, while the best sapphires are traditionally found in Kashmir, Burma, and Sri Lanka, other regions also contribute to the global supply of these beautiful gemstones. Each source has its unique characteristics, and the beauty of a sapphire is not confined to its geographical origin but is a combination of its intrinsic qualities and the craftsmanship that brings out its best.

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Sapphire is found in only a few locations in the world. The three most famous regions for blue sapphire are Kashmir, Burma and Sri Lanka. Sapphire has also been mined in Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam and India.Dec 23, 2006read more >>