Are you in search of a one-of-a-kind engagement ring or a stunning piece of jewelry that sets you apart from the crowd? Look no further than sapphire jewelry.
Known for their deep blue hue, sapphires have long symbolized faithfulness, wisdom, and truth. These stones also have a rich history with royalty, as evidenced by the most famous engagement ring of all time: the blue sapphire ring worn by the late Princess Diana and Kate Middleton.
But sapphires are more than just a pretty gemstone. They’re also one of the most durable stones, second only to diamonds with a Mohs scale rating of 9.
In this blog post, we’re shining the spotlight on sapphires and giving you everything you need to know about this unique stone.
The 4Cs of Sapphire
Color
When it comes to sapphires, color is king. Unlike diamonds where cut is the most important factor, the quality of a sapphire is determined by its hue, saturation, and tone. Hue refers to the color of the sapphire, with the most valuable one being a rich medium dark blue called “cornflower blue.”
Saturation is also a crucial factor in sapphire quality. The more vibrant and intense the color of the stone, the better. Tone, on the other hand, refers to how light or dark the stone is. You’ll want to look for a sapphire that has a highly saturated color in medium to medium dark tones.
While blue sapphires remain the most sought-after stone in the sapphire family, other colors are also becoming popular, such as pink sapphires.
Pink sapphire engagement rings are incredibly romantic and feminine, making them a great alternative to diamond rings for proposals.
Cut
The cut of a sapphire refers to how the stone was polished and shaped from its raw state in order to bring out its brilliance and beauty. The cut of the sapphire needs to be balanced and symmetrical, with facets that reflect light in a consistent and pleasing way.
When it comes to sapphire shapes, there are many options to choose from. The oval shape is a classic choice that looks beautiful in a variety of settings. The round shape is also a popular choice and works well with many different styles. The cushion shape has a unique and romantic feel, with its softly rounded corners and gentle curves.
For those who prefer an Art Deco look, the emerald shape is an elegant choice, with its clean lines and geometric shape. If you’re looking for a non-faceted option, the cabochon cut is a great alternative. This cut features a smooth, polished surface instead of facets, giving the stone a soft and subtle glow.
Clarity
Naturally mined sapphires are developed in a mineral-rich environment, so it’s expected that they will have minor inclusions. Because of their rich color, these inclusions usually do not distract the eye as much as they would in a colorless stone like diamond. On the other hand, lab-grown sapphires come from a highly-controlled environment, so they have very little to no inclusions.
Carat
Sapphires are quite heavy and dense, which is why a one-carat sapphire will look smaller than a one-carat diamond. Aside from the carat, the sapphire’s measurement should also be considered when buying this stone.
Shop Sapphire Jewelry at Zadok
Sapphire jewelry makes for a great gift for a loved one who was born in September, and also for those celebrating a 5th or 45th wedding anniversary. When shopping for sapphire jewelry, consider a complementary metal color like white gold or platinum. The white color brings out the rich blue color of the sapphire, like this blue sapphire pendant set in 14k white gold.
Another way to enhance the beauty of a sapphire is to combine it with diamonds. A halo of diamonds surrounding a sapphire round stud earrings adds an extra layer of sparkle to the stone. Alternatively, a three-stone ring with a sapphire flanked by two diamonds is a classic and undefeatable option.
At Zadok Jewelers, our team can help you find the perfect sapphire piece that fits your style and budget. From engagement rings to earrings and necklaces, we have a wide range of sapphire jewelry to choose from.
