Hello there, I'm an expert in the field of gemology with a particular interest in the fascinating world of precious and semi-precious stones. Today, I'm delighted to share some insights on the color of sapphires, which are among the most cherished and sought-after gemstones in the world. Sapphires are a type of corundum, a mineral that is second only to diamond in terms of hardness. This makes sapphires not only beautiful but also incredibly durable, making them an excellent choice for use in jewelry. The color of sapphires is a subject of great interest, as it can vary significantly and is influenced by a number of factors. The most well-known and highly valued color of sapphire is a rich, medium to dark blue. This color is often described as "cornflower blue," a term that evokes the image of the sky-blue flowers of the cornflower plant. The blue color in sapphires is caused by the presence of trace amounts of titanium and iron in the stone's crystal structure. The exact shade of blue can vary from a pale, almost icy hue to a deep, almost navy blue, depending on the specific concentrations of these elements. However, it's important to note that sapphires are not limited to blue. They can be found in a wide range of colors, including pink, purple, green, yellow, orange, and even colorless. These colors are often referred to as "fancy sapphires" and can be just as valuable and desirable as their blue counterparts, depending on their quality and the demand for the particular color. The term "sapphire" can also refer to the color itself, which is a saturated shade of blue. This color is often associated with the gemstone, and it's used in various contexts, from fashion and design to art and literature. The color sapphire is sometimes called "blue sapphire" or "sapphire blue" to distinguish it from the gemstone, but it's important to remember that the gem can come in many different colors. When evaluating the color of a sapphire, several factors are considered. The hue, which is the primary color of the stone, is one of the most important. A sapphire's hue should be vivid and intense, without any gray or brown tones that can dull the stone's appearance. The saturation, or the intensity of the color, is also crucial. A highly saturated color is more valuable than a pale or washed-out one. The tone, which refers to the lightness or darkness of the color, is another factor. A sapphire with a medium to dark tone is generally more desirable than one that is too light or too dark. Finally, the color distribution should be even and uniform across the stone, without any areas of uneven color or zoning. In addition to the gemstone's natural color, sapphires can also be treated to enhance or alter their color. Heat treatment is a common and accepted practice in the gemstone industry, and it can improve the color of a sapphire by removing any brown or yellow tones, resulting in a more vibrant blue. Other treatments, such as diffusion or dyeing, can also be used to change the color of a sapphire, but these are less common and may be less stable over time. In conclusion, the color of sapphires is a complex and fascinating topic. While the most famous and valuable sapphires are a deep, medium blue, these gemstones can be found in a wide range of colors, each with its own unique appeal and value. Understanding the nuances of sapphire color can enhance your appreciation for these beautiful stones and help you make informed choices when selecting a sapphire for yourself or as a gift. read more >>

Sapphire is a saturated shade of purple, referring to the gem of the same name. Sapphire gems are most commonly found in a range of blue shades although they can be many different colors. Other names for variations of the color sapphire are blue sapphire or sapphire blue, shown below.read more >>