Royal Blue Sapphire: Gemstone and Jewelry
Among all the blue-colored gemstones, Royal Blue Sapphire is one of the most elite and highly demanded precious stones. Similar to diamonds, Royal Blue Sapphire has a remarkable hardness making it an ideal gemstone for use in jewelry. It is a corundum mineral that comes in various colors, but the blue hue is the most sought-after of all. This beautiful gemstone serves as the birthstone for September, making it a popular choice for those celebrating birthdays during the same month. Its outstanding color, durability, and rarity make the Royal Blue Sapphire one of the world’s most prized gemstones.
History:
Sapphires have a long and rich history and have been used in jewelry for thousands of years. They were esteemed by both the ancient Greeks and Romans and were believed to possess qualities of wisdom, good fortune, and sincerity. The biblical Book of Job also refers to sapphires, describing them as one of the most precious gemstones. Royal Blue Sapphires were once only limited to royalty, making them even more desirable and prestigious.
Jewelry Design:
Designers have experimented with a range of jewelry styles using Royal Blue Sapphires. The most common cuts for Royal Blue Sapphires are oval and cushion. However, it can be found in round or square shapes as well. Its blue color can be either dark and vivid or pale and light, which makes for an interesting look when combined with other gemstones. Some jewelry designers create subtle designs that showcase the sapphire’s elegance, while others design pieces that are bold, sophisticated, and extravagant. Regardless of the style, a Royal Blue Sapphire piece is a must-have for every jewelry collection.
Types of Royal Blue Sapphires:
Royal Blue Sapphires come in several different variations of blues. Ranging from the purest blue hue, almost violet, deep navy blue, to a lighter, more teal blue tone. The color of a Royal Blue Sapphire depends on its geographic origin. The sapphires found in Kashmir, India, are recognized as the best quality, with their pure, vivid blue hue. However, these sapphires are rare and hard to find, making them expensive. Sapphires from other parts of the world, such as Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Tanzania, can also have good quality, with a range of blue hues.
Identifying a Genuine Royal Blue Sapphire:
While it may seem daunting to determine if a Royal Blue Sapphire is real or synthetic, there are several ways to authenticate its genuineness. Most of the time, beginners make the mistake of assuming that a sapphire is real because of its blue color. Unfortunately, synthetically-produced sapphires are often glass-like with a stunning blue hue, which can be mistaken for a real Royal Blue Sapphire. It is, therefore, essential to examine the sapphire more often to identify any abnormalities. One should also seek the help of a qualified gemologist to assist in the identification process.
Price:
The value and cost of Royal Blue Sapphires vary based on several factors, including their size, clarity, cut, color, and geographic origin. The value of a Royal Blue Sapphire, generally, increases as its size increases. Its clarity usually determines the price. Fewer inclusions (imperfections within the stone) usually mean a higher price. The cut also adds to the value, with round and oval-shaped Royal Blue Sapphires costing more than other cuts. The purest blue hue Royal Blue Sapphires found in Kashmir, India, are the most expensive, retailing up to $100,000 per carat.
Care and Maintenance:
Royal Blue Sapphires require proper care and maintenance to maintain their quality and radiance. It is important to avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals, high temperatures, or extreme pressures. To clean Royal Blue Sapphires, use a soft-bristled brush and mild soap and water to remove dirt and oil. Alternatively, one can use a jewelry cleaner solution designed explicitly for gemstones. Avoid ultrasonic cleaning, high-pressure steam cleaning and harsh cleaning materials as they can damage the gemstone. Finally, it’s important to store your Royal Blue Sapphire in a soft-lined jewelry box or a fabric compartment to protect them from scratches or knocks.
Royal Blue Sapphire is a remarkable gemstone that is world-renowned for its exquisite beauty and rarity. It is an ideal stone for jewelry manufacturing due to its outstanding colors, hardness, and durability. The sapphire’s captivating blue hue, combined with its versatility, has made it an enduring favorite with designers and consumers everywhere. When purchasing a Royal Blue Sapphire, ensure that it is genuine by examining its origin, color, clarity, cut, and treatment. Additionally, it’s essential to take proper care of the gemstone to maintain its quality and beauty. A piece of jewelry containing a Royal Blue Sapphire is a stunning addition to any jewelry collection and a purchase that will last a lifetime.
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