Sapphires are one of the four precious gemstones in the world: Diamonds, Sapphires, Rubies, and Emeralds. Coming from a jewellers family background, I have been aware of these gemstones and associated varieties. In India, Pukhraj (yellow sapphire), Neelam (blue sapphire), Ruby, and Emerald have been revered for their beauty and rarity for centuries.
What colour is Sapphire?
It is when I did a course in Gem Identification at GIA, London, I learnt that in fact rubies and sapphires are same species of gemstone. The only difference is the colour. All coloured sapphires and rubies are corundum species. In a GIA certificate, a sapphire is identified as
Species: Natural/Synthetic Corundum
Variety: Ruby or Sapphire
Colour: Main colour with Hue and tone i.e., Light Purplish Red
Sapphires come in a wide range of colours, from blue to pink, yellow, green, purple, and even colourless. The most well-known and sought-after sapphire colour is blue, with a deep, rich hue that is synonymous with royalty and luxury- think about Kashmir Sapphire. However, the other colours of sapphire are no less striking and can be just as valuable and coveted. Most trendy sapphire colour for 2023 is Pink.
Ruby and Sapphire
Ruby and Sapphires are same gemstones. A Red Sapphire is called “Ruby”. Pink Sapphires are also called ruby in India.
Pink Sapphire Earrings
GIA and Sapphire Colours
When it comes to grading sapphire colours, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is the leading authority. The GIA has established a grading system based on the hue, tone, and saturation of the sapphire’s colour. Hue refers to the dominant colour, while tone refers to the lightness or darkness of the colour, and saturation refers to the colour intensity.
Read GIA article here