Purple Sapphire: Gemstone and Jewelry

Purple sapphire is a gemstone that has been recently gaining popularity in the jewelry industry due to its unique beauty and scarcity. The gemstone is a variety of corundum, which also includes sapphires of other colors like blue, yellow, green, and pink. However, what sets the purple sapphire apart is its eye-catching hue, which ranges from light lavender to a deep violet. In this article, we will delve into the history, properties, and value of purple sapphire, as well as explore its uses in jewelry.

Historical Background:

Sapphires of all colors have been prized for thousands of years for their beauty and versatility. In ancient times, the Greeks and Romans believed that sapphires had healing properties and would often use them in medicinal treatments. Additionally, the Persians believed that the color of the sapphire was determined by the god of the sun, and that it could protect the wearer from harm. Thus, it is no surprise that sapphires were often used in royal and religious jewelry.

While purple sapphires have been around for centuries, they have only recently become a popular choice for jewelry. Advances in geological techniques have made it easier for mines to locate purple sapphires, and this has led to an increased supply of the gem. In turn, jewelry designers have begun to take notice of the unique beauty of this gemstone, and more and more pieces of jewelry featuring purple sapphires are being created each year.

Properties of Purple Sapphire:

Purple sapphire is a variety of corundum, which is a mineral composed of aluminum oxide. The purple color of the sapphire is caused by the presence of trace amounts of chromium and iron in the crystal lattice. The intensity of the color can vary greatly, and this is due to the concentration of these trace elements. Like all sapphires, purple sapphires are very durable and have a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes it an ideal gemstone for use in jewelry, as it is able to withstand daily wear and tear. In addition, it has a high refractive index, which means that it has excellent light dispersion and a brilliant sparkle.

Value of Purple Sapphire:

The value of a purple sapphire depends on several factors, including color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The most desirable color for a purple sapphire is a deep violet, although lighter shades of lavender can still be quite valuable. In terms of clarity, sapphires with fewer inclusions are more valuable, as they allow more light to pass through the stone and improve its brilliance.

The cut of the sapphire also plays a role in its value; well-cut stones will have better symmetry, clarity, and color distribution, which will improve their overall appeal. Finally, the carat weight of the sapphire will also affect its value, with larger stones generally being more expensive per carat.

Uses in Jewelry:

Purple sapphires are a popular choice for use in all types of jewelry, from rings and earrings to necklaces and bracelets. The unique hue of the gemstone makes it an eye-catching addition to any piece of jewelry, and it can be paired with a variety of other gemstones and metals to create stunning designs. One of the most popular uses for purple sapphires is in engagement rings. While diamonds are still the most common choice for engagement rings, more and more couples are choosing unique gemstones like purple sapphire to symbolize their love.

The deep violet color of the gemstone is often seen as a representation of loyalty and commitment, making it a fitting choice for an engagement ring. Another popular use for purple sapphires is in earrings. The small size of the gemstones means that they can be used to create delicate and intricate designs, and their unique hue adds a pop of color to the face. Purple sapphire earrings can be set in a variety of metals, including yellow gold, white gold, and platinum, and they can be paired with other gemstones like diamonds, amethysts, and emeralds to create a more colorful and dynamic look.

Necklaces and bracelets are also popular settings for purple sapphires. The gemstones can be used to create simple and elegant designs, or they can be paired with other gemstones to create more complex and dynamic patterns. One popular style is to use purple sapphires in a tennis bracelet, as the gemstones can be set in a continuous line around the wrist, creating a stunning and timeless look.

Purple sapphire is a beautiful and unique gemstone that is growing in popularity in the jewelry industry. Its eye-catching hue and durability make it an ideal choice for use in all types of jewelry, from engagement rings to earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Whether you are looking for a piece of jewelry to add to your collection or to give as a gift, a purple sapphire is sure to make a lasting impression.