From engagement rings to necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, the enduring allure of blue sapphire continues to captivate jewelry enthusiasts. Revered for its symbolism of wisdom, nobility, and divine favor, this durable gemstone is not only suitable for everyday wear but also holds significance in astrology for its protective and positive influences. Found in various global locations such as Kashmir, known for its velvety blue sapphires, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar, blue sapphires exhibit a spectrum of shades from light to dark blue.
In an exclusive interview with HT Lifestyle, Latika Kapoor, Head of Jewellery and Product Insights at March Jewellery, shares indispensable tips for those embarking on the journey of acquiring the perfect blue sapphire:
Quality Assessment: Scrutinize the sapphire’s color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Opt for a deep, vibrant blue hue with exceptional clarity and a well-proportioned cut for maximum brilliance.
1. Colour Grading:
Pay heed to the color grading system for blue sapphires. The most coveted hue is a rich, velvety blue devoid of any hints of green or gray. Steer clear of stones that appear excessively dark or light.
2. Clarity Examination:
Examine the sapphire for visible inclusions or flaws. While some inclusions are natural, choose a stone with minimal eye-visible imperfections for an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
3. Cut Considerations:
A meticulously cut blue sapphire amplifies its color and brilliance. Seek a symmetrical and proportionate cut that optimally reflects light, resulting in a breathtaking gemstone.
4. Certification and Origin:
Procure blue sapphires from reputable jewelers offering authenticity certification. Additionally, inquire about the stone’s origin, as those from certain regions, such as Kashmir or Ceylon, command higher regard.
Adding to the expert advice, Milind Mathur, Director at Kohinoor Jewellers in Agra, offers additional insights:
Understanding Heat Treatment: Acknowledge the common practice of heat treatment to enhance color and clarity. Awareness of this treatment and its impact on the gem’s value is crucial. While many sapphires undergo heat treatment, it’s not necessarily a drawback, and untreated or minimally treated stones can be more valuable.
Consider the 4 Cs: Aligning with diamond evaluation, the 4 Cs apply to sapphires with slight nuances:
1. Color:
Value blue sapphires primarily for their color, aiming for a rich, intense blue.
2. Clarity:
Seek sapphires with eye-clean clarity or minor inclusions that do not compromise beauty.
3. Cut:
Opt for well-proportioned cuts ensuring brilliance, with traditional shapes like round, oval, or cushion being popular.
4. Carat Weight:
Choose a size fitting your style and budget, keeping in mind that larger sapphires can be more expensive.
5. Ask for a Light Source:
When inspecting a sapphire, request to view it under various lighting conditions. Different sources such as natural light, incandescent, and fluorescent lighting can influence the gem’s color. A high-quality sapphire should exhibit appeal under diverse lighting conditions.
6. Setting and Design:
Deliberate on the design and setting of your jewelry. The setting not only enhances the sapphire’s beauty but also provides protection. Settings like halo designs can create the illusion of a larger sapphire with added sparkle.
7. Budget Flexibility:
While adhering to a budget is crucial, remain open to some flexibility. A slightly higher budget may allow the acquisition of a significantly more exquisite sapphire. Nevertheless, always ensure that your spending limit aligns with your comfort level.
