Gemstone guide
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What is Blue Sapphire?
Blue Sapphire is the sapphire variety of corundum, coloured by trace elements (primarily iron and titanium). A guide to the gem, and to buying one well.
About Blue Sapphire
01- Species
- Corundum
- Variety
- Sapphire
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 9
- Refractive index
- 1.76 - 1.77
- Colour caused by
- Trace elements (primarily iron and titanium)
The blue sapphire is a paragon of elegance and sophistication, celebrated for its rich hues and timeless allure. Originating from esteemed locales such as Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Burma, and Thailand, each sapphire boasts a unique story and character. The value of these magnificent stones is driven by their vibrant colour, clarity, and cut, with the most coveted shades being the illustrious Cornflower Blue and Royal Blue. Available in a variety of cuts, from the classic Emerald Cut to the exquisite Designer Cut, these gemstones are a testament to masterful craftsmanship.
While many blue sapphires undergo heat treatment to enhance their colour and clarity, unheated specimens offer a rare and natural beauty. Prices for these gems start from around $580 per carat, with the finest examples reaching upwards of $2800 per carat. Many of our stones are accompanied by a laboratory certificate from renowned institutions such as GIA and GRS, ensuring their authenticity and quality. Certification is available on request for any stone, allowing you to select with confidence.
Judging quality
02What drives the value
- Color saturation
- Clarity
- Origin
- Size
What to watch for when buying
- Overlooking treatment disclosures
- Assuming all blue sapphires are heated
- Neglecting to verify certification
Inclusions you may see
- Needle-like rutile inclusions
- Silk
- Color zoning
Origin, treatment and trade names
03Where it comes from
TreatmentAs disclosed for the stones we sell; every listing states its own.
Trade names
Price per carat
04- Typical price
- $1,981 per carat
- Most stones
- $1,530–$3,110 per carat
- Based on
- 28 stones in our stock, updated weekly. Blue Sapphire prices by carat size →
From our stock
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From the journal
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Frequently Asked Questions
07Where do your blue sapphires come from?
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Our blue sapphires originate from prestigious sources including Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Burma, and Thailand, each offering unique characteristics.
Are your blue sapphires treated?
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Many of our blue sapphires have undergone heat treatment to enhance their colour and clarity, though we also offer unheated stones for those seeking natural beauty.
What determines the value of a blue sapphire?
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The value of a blue sapphire is primarily determined by its colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight, with vivid hues like Cornflower Blue and Royal Blue being particularly prized.
How should I choose a blue sapphire?
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When selecting a blue sapphire, consider the stone's colour, clarity, and cut, as well as any personal preference for origin or treatment. Certification can provide additional assurance of quality.
Are your blue sapphires certified?
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Many of our blue sapphires are accompanied by a laboratory certificate from prestigious labs such as GIA and GRS. Certification is available on request for any stone.
Shop
Blue Sapphire
Every stone shows its own price, weight, origin and treatment. Browse our blue sapphire, or contact our team for personal help choosing one.