Sapphires are among the most cherished and admired gemstones in the world, known for their stunning blue hue and rich history. However, there’s much more to sapphires than meets the eye. From their diverse colors to their mystical lore, sapphires are filled with fascinating facts that may surprise even the most avid gemstone enthusiasts. Here are the top 10 things you didn’t know about sapphire.
- Sapphires Come in Every Color Except Red: While sapphires are most famous for their deep blue color, they actually come in a variety of hues, including pink, yellow, green, and even white. These non-blue sapphires are often referred to as “fancy sapphires.” The only color sapphires don’t come in is red—those are classified as rubies, which are also a variety of the mineral corundum.
- The Word “Sapphire” Means “Blue”: The name “sapphire” is derived from the Latin word “sapphirus” and the Greek word “sappheiros,” both of which mean blue. This association with the color blue dates back thousands of years, reflecting the gem’s deep connection to the skies and seas.
- Sapphires Are the Second Hardest Natural Gemstone: On the Mohs scale of hardness, sapphires rank just below diamonds, with a rating of 9 out of 10. This exceptional hardness makes sapphires not only beautiful but also highly durable, making them an excellent choice for everyday jewelry like engagement rings.
- Sapphires Can Change Color: Some rare sapphires exhibit a phenomenon called color change, where the stone appears to be different colors under different lighting conditions. For example, a color-change sapphire might appear blue in daylight and purple under incandescent light. This unique characteristic adds an extra layer of mystique to these already captivating gems.
- The World’s Largest Sapphire Weighs Over 1,400 Carats: The largest sapphire ever discovered is the Star of Adam, a massive blue star sapphire weighing 1,404.49 carats. Found in Sri Lanka, this incredible gemstone is named for the star-shaped pattern visible within it, a phenomenon known as asterism.
- Sapphires Are a Symbol of Wisdom and Royalty: Throughout history, sapphires have been associated with wisdom, virtue, and divine favor. They have adorned the robes and crowns of royalty, symbolizing power and protection. In ancient times, people believed that wearing a sapphire could protect them from envy and harm.
- Sapphires Are Found All Over the World: While some of the most famous sapphires come from Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Kashmir, these gemstones are actually found in various locations across the globe, including Australia, Thailand, Madagascar, and even the United States. Each location can produce sapphires with unique characteristics, adding to their diversity.
- The Star Sapphire Has a Unique Optical Effect: Star sapphires are a special type of sapphire that exhibit a star-like pattern across the surface, caused by tiny needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile. This effect, known as asterism, makes star sapphires highly sought after by collectors and gemstone enthusiasts.
- Sapphires Have Been Used in Technology: Beyond their beauty, sapphires have practical applications in technology. Synthetic sapphires are used in the production of scratch-resistant glass for high-end watches, scientific instruments, and even smartphone screens. Their durability and clarity make them an ideal material for these advanced uses.
Sapphires are truly remarkable gemstones, full of history, symbolism, and unique characteristics that make them a favorite among jewelers and collectors alike. At Johnston Jewelers, we are proud to offer a stunning collection of sapphire jewelry, each piece crafted to highlight the beauty and brilliance of this extraordinary gem. Whether you’re looking for a classic blue sapphire ring or a unique fancy-colored sapphire pendant, our expert team is here to help you find the perfect piece. Visit Johnston Jewelers to explore our sapphire collection and discover the many wonders of this timeless gemstone.