Blue sapphires are one of the most beautiful and sought-after gemstones in the world. Known for their stunning blue hue, they are used in various types of jewelry, from engagement rings to necklaces. However, with the rise in synthetic and imitation sapphires, it’s important to know how to differentiate a real blue sapphire from a fake one. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the necessary methods and tips for identifying a genuine blue sapphire.
What is a Blue Sapphire?
A blue sapphire is a variety of corundum, a mineral that also gives us rubies. Its deep blue color is caused by traces of iron and titanium. Sapphires are often associated with royalty, elegance, and timeless beauty. While sapphires can come in a variety of colors, the blue sapphire remains the most popular and valuable.
The Difference Between Real and Fake Blue Sapphires
There are several ways to distinguish between a real blue sapphire and a fake one. Synthetic sapphires are made in laboratories, while imitation sapphires are stones that resemble sapphires but are made from different materials. A real sapphire will have unique characteristics that cannot be replicated in a fake one. Let’s dive into the various ways to check if your blue sapphire is real.
Visual Inspection
One of the first things you can do when trying to determine if your blue sapphire is real is a visual inspection.
Here are some aspects to look for:
Color
Real blue sapphires have a deep, vibrant blue color. It’s important to note that blue sapphires come in different shades of blue, ranging from light to dark. However, the color should be uniform throughout the stone. If the stone has patches of different colors or an unnatural tint, it might not be a real sapphire.
Clarity
Most sapphires, especially those that are mined naturally, will have some inclusions. These are small internal flaws or imperfections that occur naturally during the formation of the stone. If a blue sapphire looks too perfect or flawless, it might be a synthetic or imitation sapphire. However, some sapphires, especially high-quality ones, can have few inclusions, so be cautious.
Cut
A real blue sapphire is usually cut in a symmetrical and professional manner. A poorly cut stone might be a sign of an imitation or lower-quality sapphire. A poorly cut sapphire will have facets that are not aligned correctly or an overall uneven shape.
The Water Test
The water test is a simple and quick way to check if your blue sapphire is real.
Here’s how you can perform this test:
- Fill a glass with water.
- Drop the blue sapphire into the glass.
- Observe how the sapphire behaves.
A real blue sapphire will sink to the bottom of the glass. Fake stones, on the other hand, might float or behave differently due to their composition. This test isn’t foolproof, but it can be a good first step in identifying whether the sapphire is real or fake.
The Fog Test
Another simple test to determine the authenticity of a blue sapphire is the fog test.
Here’s how it works:
- Hold the sapphire between your fingers.
- Breathe on it to create fog on the surface.
- Observe how the fog reacts.
A real blue sapphire will clear up almost immediately after you breathe on it. Fake sapphires, such as those made from glass or plastic, will retain the fog longer because they are poor conductors of heat. This is one of the easiest and quickest tests to check if your sapphire is real.
The Scratch Test
Blue sapphires are part of the corundum family, which is one of the hardest substances on Earth. A sapphire has a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it highly resistant to scratches.
To perform the scratch test:
- Use a material that is harder than glass, such as a steel knife or another gemstone.
- Try scratching the surface of the blue sapphire.
If the sapphire scratches easily, it is most likely a fake. A real sapphire will not scratch under normal conditions. However, be cautious when using this method, as it can cause damage to the gemstone if not done carefully.
Professional Appraisal
If you still have doubts about the authenticity of your blue sapphire, it’s best to seek professional help. Gemologists are trained experts who can identify real sapphires using specialized tools and equipment. They can provide you with a certificate of authenticity that guarantees your sapphire’s genuineness.
Using UV Light
A fascinating and more technical method to check if a blue sapphire is real is by using ultraviolet (UV) light.
Here’s how it works:
- Turn off the lights in the room.
- Shine a UV light on the sapphire.
- Observe how the sapphire reacts to the light.
A real blue sapphire will typically show a faint blue or violet glow under UV light, due to the trace amounts of iron and titanium in its structure. Synthetic sapphires might not exhibit the same glow, and imitation stones usually don’t react to UV light at all.
Heat Resistance Test
Sapphires are known for their high heat resistance.
To test a sapphire’s heat tolerance:
- Heat the sapphire gently using a lighter or other heat source.
- Drop the heated stone into a glass of cold water.
A real sapphire will not crack or break when subjected to this sudden change in temperature. Fake sapphires, especially those made of glass or plastic, will likely crack or shatter. This test should be performed with caution, as excessive heat can cause damage to the stone.
Use of a Loupe
A loupe is a small magnifying glass used by gemologists to examine gemstones in detail. If you want to perform a detailed inspection of your blue sapphire, using a loupe is essential. Here’s what to look for:
Inclusions (Flaws)
As mentioned earlier, real blue sapphires often contain inclusions, though these might be very small. With a loupe, you can observe these inclusions clearly. Synthetic sapphires often have fewer inclusions, and imitations rarely have any.
Growth Lines
Another feature of real sapphires is their growth lines. These are the natural marks formed during the crystallization process. These lines can often be seen under magnification and are a good indication that the sapphire is real.
The Price Test
While not a physical test, the price of a sapphire can often be a good indicator of its authenticity. Real blue sapphires are expensive, especially high-quality stones. If you find a blue sapphire being sold at an unusually low price, it could be a red flag that the stone is not genuine. Be cautious and remember that “too good to be true” deals often are.
Conclusion
Determining whether a blue sapphire is real or fake requires careful observation and, at times, some basic tests. From visual inspection to using a loupe, UV light, or even a professional appraisal, there are multiple methods available to help you make the distinction. Always remember that the value of a real sapphire is significant, so ensure you know its authenticity before making any major purchases.
If you are unsure about your stone’s authenticity after performing these tests, consulting with a professional gemologist is always a wise decision. They can provide you with an accurate assessment and ensure that your blue sapphire is indeed the real deal.
Related topic:
- What Is a Diffused Blue Sapphire?
- What is Cornflower Blue Sapphire?
- What Color Blue Sapphire is Best?
