Description and Characteristics
Sapphire is the variety of corundum of any color except red (which is reserved for ruby). It is an aluminum oxide that owes its iconic blue color to traces of iron and titanium. It forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks or is found in alluvial deposits. It is one of the hardest and most durable gemstones in existence, making it ideal for daily wear in jewelry. Although blue is the most famous, "fancy" sapphires exist in almost every color of the rainbow, with Padparadscha (a pinkish-orange hue) being one of the rarest and most expensive.
| Chemical Formula | $$A_{l2}O_3$$ |
|---|---|
| Luster | Vitreous to adamantine |
| Streak | White |
| Fracture | Conchoidal to uneven |
| Cleavage | None (shows parting) |
| Hardness | 9 Mohs |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
Did you know...?
The name comes from the Latin sapphirus and the Greek sappheiros, meaning "blue." The most famous sapphire in the world is probably the one in the engagement ring that belonged to Princess Diana (and now to the Princess of Wales). Some sapphires exhibit an optical effect called asterism, where needle-like rutile inclusions create a six-rayed star that appears to float on the stone's surface when cut into a cabochon.
New-Age Properties
Sapphire is known as the "stone of wisdom" and royalty. It is linked to the throat and third eye chakras. It is said to help focus the mind, bring self-discipline, and attract prosperity. It is a stone of spiritual peace that helps release mental tension and unwanted thoughts. Traditionally, it has been used as a talisman to preserve purity, protect against envy, and strengthen the connection with the divine plane, bringing clarity in communication and honesty in relationships.