Sapphires: A Guide to Buying the Perfect Stone
Sapphires are one of the most popular gemstones in the world. They are known for their stunning beauty, durability and versatility. Whether you are looking for a precious piece of jewelry or just a stunning piece of art, sapphires can be a great choice. In this guide, we will take you through the basics of buying sapphires and help you find the perfect stone for your needs.
Colors of Sapphires
Sapphires come in a wide range of colors, from the classic blue to pink, yellow, green, and even black. The most popular color is blue, which is often associated with September birthdays and the 45th wedding anniversary. Pink sapphires are also popular and are often used in engagement rings. Yellow sapphires are a great alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings. Green sapphires are rare and are often used in high-end jewelry. Black sapphires are also rare and are often used in men's jewelry.
Cuts of Sapphires
Sapphires are available in a range of cuts, from the classic round cut to the more modern cushion, princess, and oval cuts. The most popular cut for sapphires is the round cut, which is considered to be the most traditional and timeless. The cushion cut is also popular and is known for its soft, rounded edges. Princess and oval cuts are also popular and are often used in engagement rings.
Clarity of Sapphires
When buying a sapphire, it's important to consider its clarity. Sapphires are typically judged based on their inclusions and blemishes. Inclusions are internal flaws that are visible under magnification. Blemishes are external flaws that are visible to the naked eye. Sapphires with few inclusions and blemishes are considered to be of higher quality.
Carat weight of Sapphires
Carat weight is another important factor to consider when buying a sapphire. A carat is a unit of measurement for the weight of a gemstone and is equal to 0.2 grams. The carat weight of a sapphire can greatly affect its price, as larger stones are generally more expensive. However, it's important to keep in mind that the size of the stone is not the only factor that affects its price. Other factors such as color, cut, clarity, and certification can also play a role in determining the value of a sapphire. When buying a sapphire, it's important to find a balance between carat weight and other factors to ensure you are getting the best value for your money.
Certification of Sapphires
When buying a sapphire, it's important to make sure it's certified. A certification provides proof that the sapphire is genuine and that it has been evaluated for its quality and value. The most common certification organizations for sapphires are the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Gem Society (AGS).
Price of Sapphires
The price of sapphires can vary greatly depending on their color, cut, clarity, and certification. Blue sapphires are typically more expensive than other colors, while pink and yellow sapphires are often less expensive. The round cut is typically more expensive than other cuts, while cushion and princess cuts are often less expensive. Sapphires with higher clarity and carat weight are typically more expensive.
In conclusion, when buying a sapphire, it's important to consider its color, cut, clarity, and certification. By doing so, you can find the perfect stone for your needs and budget. Whether you are looking for a precious piece of jewelry or just a stunning piece of art, sapphires can be a great choice.