Blue sapphires are among the most cherished gemstones worldwide. Known for their rich color and exceptional clarity, they are frequently used in high-end jewelry, including engagement rings and necklaces. However, as with any precious gem, people often wonder if exposure to sunlight can impact the appearance of blue sapphires. Does sunlight cause them to fade? This article will explore the durability of blue sapphires, including their reaction to sunlight and other environmental factors.
What is Blue Sapphire?
Blue sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum. The gemstone gets its blue color from trace amounts of iron and titanium present during its formation. Sapphires are incredibly hard, scoring 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, second only to diamonds. Due to this hardness, blue sapphires are known for their durability and resistance to scratches, making them ideal for jewelry that is worn daily.
Blue Sapphire’s Resistance to Sunlight
One of the most important aspects to consider when purchasing any gemstone is its ability to resist fading and discoloration over time. Blue sapphires are known for their remarkable resistance to sunlight. Unlike certain gemstones, which may lose their vibrant color or luster when exposed to prolonged sunlight, blue sapphires maintain their rich blue hues without fading.
Why Blue Sapphire Doesn’t Fade in Sunlight
The primary reason that blue sapphires do not fade in sunlight is their chemical structure. As mentioned earlier, sapphires are made of corundum, which is a highly stable and durable mineral. The iron and titanium that give blue sapphires their color do not degrade under UV light, which is the primary cause of color fading in other gemstones. This makes sapphires highly resistant to color changes when exposed to sunlight.
Factors That Can Affect the Appearance of Blue Sapphires
While blue sapphires do not fade in sunlight, other factors can still impact their appearance over time. These include exposure to extreme heat, chemical exposure, and mechanical damage. Let’s explore these factors in more detail.
Exposure to Heat
Although blue sapphires can withstand sunlight, they are susceptible to heat. High temperatures can cause a sapphire to lose its vibrant color or even crack under extreme conditions. It is important to avoid exposing sapphires to direct heat sources such as stoves or open flames.
Chemical Exposure
Blue sapphires can also be affected by exposure to harsh chemicals. Household cleaners, perfumes, or lotions can damage the surface of a sapphire, dulling its shine and affecting its appearance. It is best to remove sapphire jewelry before applying such substances.
Mechanical Damage
Like any gemstone, blue sapphires are vulnerable to scratches or chips if subjected to rough handling. Although sapphire is hard, it is not indestructible. Dropping the stone or exposing it to rough surfaces can cause visible damage.
How to Care for Blue Sapphire Jewelry
Proper care is essential to maintaining the beauty of blue sapphires.
Here are some tips for caring for sapphire jewelry:
Clean Regularly
Regular cleaning helps maintain the sapphire’s shine and luster. You can clean blue sapphires with warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can cause damage to the gemstone.
Store Safely
When not wearing sapphire jewelry, store it in a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with separate compartments. This helps prevent scratches and other mechanical damage.
Remove Before Activities
It is always a good idea to remove sapphire jewelry before engaging in activities that could cause it to come into contact with chemicals, heat, or rough surfaces. Activities such as gardening, exercising, or cleaning should be done without wearing your sapphire jewelry.
Can Blue Sapphire Lose Its Value?
While blue sapphires are resistant to sunlight and fading, other factors can affect their value. The quality of a sapphire is determined by several characteristics, including its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. A sapphire with superior color and clarity will maintain its value over time, even if exposed to sunlight. On the other hand, a sapphire that is poorly cut or has significant flaws may lose value regardless of its exposure to sunlight.
The Role of Treatments in Blue Sapphire Durability
Many blue sapphires undergo treatments to improve their color and clarity. These treatments include heat treatment, which enhances the gemstone’s color, and filling treatments that improve clarity by filling cracks or inclusions. Treated sapphires can still maintain their color and durability, but it is essential to know what treatments have been applied when purchasing a sapphire, as some treatments may be more vulnerable to damage than others.
Conclusion
Blue sapphires are stunning gemstones known for their beauty and resilience. Unlike some other gemstones, they do not fade or lose their color when exposed to sunlight. Their durability, combined with their resistance to sunlight, makes them an excellent choice for jewelry that will last a lifetime. However, it is still essential to care for your blue sapphire jewelry properly by cleaning it regularly, avoiding exposure to extreme heat and chemicals, and storing it safely. By following these care tips, you can ensure that your blue sapphire remains as beautiful as the day you purchased it.
Related topics:
- Who Should Wear Blue Sapphire Stone?
- What Is a Diffused Blue Sapphire?
- What is Cornflower Blue Sapphire?
