Sapphires, with their captivating beauty and deep connection to the natural world, have long been treasured as symbols of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. They grace the crowns of kings and queens, find their place in heirloom jewellery, and capture the hearts of those seeking something unique. But beyond their stunning appearance lies a world of fascinating details. Let’s explore the story of sapphires—what they are, where they come from, and why they’re so cherished.

 

Before you continue, make sure to watch our Episode One of Provenance, in which we visit one of our suppliers, who own the mine and cutting facility in which we source many of our sapphires from. 

What Are Sapphires?

Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, the same family that gives us rubies. What differentiates the two is colour: while rubies are exclusively red, sapphires encompass every colour of the rainbow—though the iconic deep blue is the most widely recognised and celebrated. These gemstones are composed of aluminium oxide, and trace elements like iron, titanium, chromium, and vanadium are what create their vibrant hues. On the Mohs scale of hardness, sapphires rank at an impressive 9, second only to diamonds, making them not only stunning but also exceptionally durable.

The Spectrum of Sapphires

When people think of sapphires, they often envision a rich, velvety blue, reminiscent of twilight skies or the ocean’s depths. But sapphires are far more versatile than their blue counterparts suggest. These gems are found in nearly every colour, collectively known as “fancy sapphires.” Yellow sapphires exude warmth and cheer, pink sapphires speak of romance and femininity, and green sapphires reflect nature’s tranquillity. Some sapphires even display multiple colours in a single stone, blending hues in mesmerising patterns. These are known as parti sapphires.

 

What Is a Parti Sapphire?

Parti sapphires are a unique subset of sapphires that exhibit two or more distinct colours within the same stone, often in shades of blue, green, and yellow. Found primarily in Australia, parti sapphires are a testament to nature’s unpredictability and artistry. No two stones are alike, making them perfect for those seeking something truly one-of-a-kind. Their kaleidoscopic colours shift and dance in the light, creating a visual experience that feels alive.

 

Where Do Sapphires Come From?

The origins of sapphires are as diverse as the stones themselves. Historically, some of the finest blue sapphires have been mined in Kashmir, India, known for their velvety texture and unparalleled saturation. Though Kashmir sapphires are exceedingly rare today, their legacy endures.

Modern sapphire sources include:

• Sri Lanka: Known as Ceylon sapphires, these stones are lighter and brighter in tone, often with a hint of brilliance that gives them a lively appearance.

• Myanmar (Burma): Produces deeply saturated and richly coloured stones, particularly prized by collectors.

• Australia: Home to parti sapphires and darker-toned blues and greens, Australian sapphires have a unique character and earthy appeal.

• Madagascar: A relative newcomer to the sapphire world, Madagascar is now one of the most prolific sources, offering stones in a wide range of colours.

Each region imparts its own signature to the stones, influenced by the geological conditions that formed them over millions of years.

 

Why Hardness Matters

One of the reasons sapphires are so enduring—both physically and symbolically—is their remarkable hardness. Ranking at 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphires are highly resistant to scratches and everyday wear. This makes them ideal for engagement rings, which endure constant use, as well as heirloom pieces meant to last generations. Their durability ensures that their beauty remains undiminished over time, a fitting metaphor for everlasting love.

 

Rarity and Scarcity

While sapphires are not as rare as some gemstones, certain varieties and qualities are exceedingly scarce. Kashmir sapphires, for example, are virtually unattainable due to the depletion of their mines. Similarly, unheated sapphires—those that have not undergone thermal enhancement to improve their colour and clarity—are highly coveted by purists. Heat treatment is a common and widely accepted practice, but finding a natural, untreated stone with exceptional colour and clarity is akin to discovering a needle in a haystack.

Fancy-coloured sapphires, such as pinks and yellows, are rarer than blue sapphires and can command significant prices depending on their hue and saturation. Parti sapphires, with their unique colour blends, are relatively rare and growing in popularity for their uniqueness and organic appeal.

 

Ethical and Sustainable Sapphires

As awareness of ethical sourcing grows, many consumers are prioritising gemstones mined responsibly. Australia, in particular, is known for its transparent mining practices, producing sapphires with minimal environmental impact. Choosing ethically sourced sapphires not only supports fair labour practices but also ensures the preservation of the natural landscapes where these gems are found.

For those seeking an even more sustainable option, lab-grown sapphires offer the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as their natural counterparts. Created in controlled environments, these stones eliminate the need for mining while retaining all the beauty and durability of natural sapphires.

 

The Timeless Appeal of Sapphires

Sapphires have adorned royalty, inspired poets, and symbolised fidelity for centuries. The British royal family’s association with sapphires—from Princess Diana’s iconic engagement ring to its current place on Kate Middleton’s hand—has only cemented their place as one of the most beloved gemstones in history.

But sapphires are not just for the elite. Their versatility in colour, availability in various price ranges, and durability make them accessible to anyone seeking a meaningful and enduring piece of jewellery. Whether you choose a classic blue sapphire, a romantic pink stone, or a unique parti sapphire, you’re investing in a gem that tells a story as rich and complex as the Earth itself.

 

A Gem for Every Story

In the world of gemstones, few can rival the depth and diversity of sapphires. Their beauty transcends trends, offering something timeless yet uniquely personal. Whether you’re drawn to their vibrant colours, their storied origins, or their ethical appeal, sapphires remain a gemstone that connects us to the natural world and to each other. At Laher Design, we believe every sapphire holds a story, and we’re here to help you find the one that speaks to yours.