Sapphires are one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world, prized for their stunning blue hue and durability. However, not all sapphires are created equal. Some are much more valuable than others, and the price can vary based on factors such as colour, clarity, and size. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the most expensive types of sapphires.
This are the most expensive by market demand, however we'll take the approach of industry rarity and difficulty to source. As well, to be honest, the most special for us to design with.
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Australian Sapphire; Australian sapphires are mined in several locations throughout Australia, including Queensland and New South Wales. They are known for their deep blue colour and are often used in engagement rings and other types of fine jewellery. Australian sapphires can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per carat, depending on the quality of the stone. They are growing in popularity and in recent years are becoming more difficult to source due to the unique colour zoning that provides an individualism that is not seen in other singular toned sapphires mentioned below.
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Burmese Ruby Sapphire; Burmese Ruby sapphires are another highly coveted type of sapphire. They are mined in the Mogok region of Burma and are known for their deep red colour, which is caused by the presence of chromium. Burmese Ruby sapphires are rare, with only a few mines in the world producing them. They are also highly valued for their clarity and size. The most expensive Burmese Ruby sapphire ever sold at auction was a 15.99-carat stone, which fetched $50 million in 2015. HOWEVER, due to the labour conditions and unwillingness to cooperate with global ethical and sustainability standards, the supply of gemstones from Burma has been largely smothered in recent years. Sourcing stones from this region is considered an unethical industry practice.
- Ceylon Sapphire; Ceylon sapphires are another popular type of sapphire, named after the island of Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon). They are known for their rich, bright blue colour, and are often used as the centerpiece in high-end jewellry. Ceylon sapphires can range in price from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per carat, depending on the quality and size of the stone.
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Kashmir Sapphire; Kashmir sapphires are widely considered to be the most valuable and desirable sapphires in the world. They are named after the region of Kashmir, where they were first discovered in 1881. Kashmir sapphires are known for their rich, velvety blue colour and their exceptional clarity. They are also extremely rare, with only a few hundred known to exist. A top-quality Kashmir sapphire can fetch millions of dollars at auction.
The Most Valuable Sapphire In The World
Let us preface this with appreciating that it would likely be a head to head finish line call between Kashmir and who we consider the most desirable and expensive sapphire in the world, the Padparadscha Sapphire.
- Padparadscha Sapphire; Padparadscha sapphires are a unique type of sapphire that are highly sought after by collectors. They are named after the lotus flower, which is known as the "padma" in Sanskrit. Padparadscha sapphires are a pink-orange colour and are considered to be the rarest type of sapphire. They are mined in Sri Lanka and Tanzania, and a high-quality Padparadscha sapphire can fetch several thousand dollars per carat.
In conclusion, sapphires are a highly valued gemstone, and the most expensive types of sapphires can fetch millions of dollars at auction. Whether you're a collector or simply a lover of fine jewellery, these stunning gemstones are sure to captivate and inspire. From the velvety blue of the Kashmir sapphire to the unique pink-orange of the Padparadscha sapphire, each type of sapphire has its own distinctive beauty and character.
