Hello, I'm an expert in the field of gemstones, with a particular focus on their value, rarity, and market trends. When it comes to the comparison of blue sapphires and diamonds, there are several factors to consider, including their chemical composition, hardness, rarity, and the demand for each in the market.

Firstly, let's discuss the chemical composition. Diamonds are made of carbon, which is arranged in a crystal lattice structure that gives them their incredible hardness and brilliance. On the other hand, sapphires are part of the corundum family, which is aluminum oxide. While sapphires are also very hard, they are not as hard as diamonds, which are ranked as the hardest substance on the Mohs scale.

Hardness is a critical factor in the durability and desirability of a gemstone. Diamonds are renowned for their hardness, which makes them ideal for use in jewelry that will be worn daily. Sapphires, while still very durable, are not as resistant to scratching and abrasion as diamonds.

When it comes to rarity, diamonds are indeed rare, but not as rare as some might believe. The rarity of a gemstone is often manipulated by the market and the supply chain. Sapphires, while also rare, are found in more locations around the world and are more abundant than diamonds. This increased availability can contribute to a lower price.

The demand for diamonds is also a significant factor. Diamonds have been marketed extensively as the quintessential gemstone for engagement rings and other significant occasions. This has created a high demand for diamonds, which in turn drives up their price. Sapphires, while also sought after, do not have the same level of marketing behind them and therefore do not command the same high prices.

Now, regarding the colorless stone preference, white sapphires are indeed often less expensive than blue sapphires. This might seem counterintuitive given that white sapphires are mentioned to be rarer. However, the market value of a gemstone is not solely determined by its rarity. The demand for colorless stones is high, particularly for use in traditional engagement rings. This high demand can sometimes offset the rarity and result in a lower price for white sapphires compared to blue ones.

In conclusion, while there are sapphires that are rarer than diamonds, including blue sapphires, they are generally less expensive. This is due to a combination of factors including their chemical composition, hardness, rarity, and market demand. It's also worth noting that the price of a gemstone can vary greatly depending on its quality, size, and the specific characteristics that buyers find desirable.

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And many other gems that are rarer than diamonds, including rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, are still less expensive. ... If you'd prefer a colorless stone (for that --traditional-- engagement ring look), a white sapphire is actually even cheaper than a blue one, despite being rarer.Nov 6, 2015read more >>