Sapphires are one of the most popular and prized gemstones in the world. Their stunning blue color is instantly recognizable, but did you know that sapphire come in a variety of colors? In fact, sapphires can be found in almost every color of the rainbow, making them one of the most versatile gemstones on the market. In this guide, we will explore all the different sapphire colors, their meanings, and their characteristics.
Blue Sapphire
Blue sapphire is the most well-known and popular color of sapphire. It is a classic and timeless gemstone that has been cherished for centuries. Blue sapphires can vary in color from a light, pale blue to a deep, dark blue. The most valuable blue sapphires are those that have a vivid, intense blue color, with strong saturation and tone. These sapphires are often referred to as “cornflower blue” sapphires and are highly prized by collectors and investors alike.
Yellow Sapphire
Yellow sapphire is another popular color of sapphire and is often associated with warmth and happiness. These sapphires can range in color from a pale, almost colorless yellow to a rich, golden yellow. The most valuable yellow sapphires are those that have a bright, vibrant color, with good clarity and a high level of saturation.
Pink Sapphire
Pink sapphire is a stunning and feminine gemstone that has become increasingly popular in recent years. These sapphires can range in color from a pale, almost pastel pink to a rich, vibrant pink. The most valuable pink sapphires are those that have a strong, intense pink color, with good clarity and a high level of saturation.
Purple Sapphire
Purple sapphire is a unique and unusual gemstone that is highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts. These sapphires can range in color from a light, lavender hue to a deep, dark purple. The most valuable purple sapphires are those that have a rich, royal purple color, with good clarity and a high level of saturation.
Green Sapphire
Green sapphire is a beautiful and uncommon gemstone that is highly prized by collectors and investors. These sapphires can range in color from a light, almost yellow-green to a deep, rich green. The most valuable green sapphires are those that have a vivid, intense green color, with good clarity and a high level of saturation.
Orange Sapphire
Orange sapphire is a bright and cheerful gemstone that is often associated with energy and vitality. These sapphires can range in color from a pale, almost peachy orange to a deep, fiery orange. The most valuable orange sapphires are those that have a bright, vibrant color, with good clarity and a high level of saturation.
Padparadscha Sapphire
Padparadscha sapphire is a unique and highly prized variety of sapphires that is known for its pinkish-orange color. These sapphires can range in color from a pale, almost salmon hue to a deep, vibrant orange-pink. The most valuable padparadscha sapphires are those that have a strong, intense color, with good clarity and a high level of saturation.
White Sapphire
White sapphire is a colorless variety of sapphires that is highly prized for its clarity and brilliance. These sapphires are often used as a diamond substitute in jewelry and can range in color from a pure, colorless white to a slightly yellowish or grayish hue.
Black Sapphire
Black sapphire is a dark and dramatic gemstone that is highly prized for its deep, rich color. These sapphires can range in color from a very dark, almost black hue to a deep, midnight blue. The most valuable black sapphires are those that have a uniform color and good clarity.
Bi-Color Sapphire
Bi-color sapphire is a unique and eye-catching gemstone that features two or more colors in the same stone. These sapphires can be found in a variety of color combinations, such as blue and yellow, green and yellow, or pink and orange. The most valuable bi-color sapphires are those that have a clear and distinct color separation.
Color-Change Sapphire
Color-change sapphire is a rare and fascinating gemstone that changes color depending on the lighting conditions. These sapphires can range in color from blue to purple, or from green to pink, and can even appear in different colors depending on whether they are viewed in natural or artificial light. The most valuable color-change sapphires are those that have a distinct and noticeable color change.
Star Sapphire
Star sapphire is a unique and mysterious gemstone that features a six-pointed star pattern on the surface of the stone. This effect, known as asterism, is caused by the presence of tiny inclusions within the stone. Star sapphires can be found in a variety of colors, including blue, black, gray, and brown. The most valuable star sapphires are those that have a clear and well-defined star pattern.
Multi-Color Sapphire
Multi-color sapphire is a beautiful and versatile gemstone that features a range of different colors in the same stone. These sapphires can be found in a variety of color combinations, such as blue and green, pink and orange, or purple and yellow. The most valuable multi-color sapphires are those that have a clear and distinct color separation.
Meanings and Symbolism of Sapphire Colors
In addition to their stunning beauty, sapphires are also associated with a range of meanings and symbolism. Here are some of the most common meanings and symbolism associated with each sapphire color:
Blue Sapphire: loyalty, wisdom, truth, and protection
Yellow Sapphire: wealth, prosperity, and happiness
Pink Sapphire: love, compassion, and emotional healing
Purple Sapphire: spiritual enlightenment and intuition
Green Sapphire: balance, growth, and harmony
Orange Sapphire: energy, enthusiasm, and creativity
Padparadscha Sapphire: joy, passion, and creativity
White Sapphire: purity, clarity, and focus
Black Sapphire: protection, grounding, and stability
Bi-Color Sapphire: balance and harmony
Color-Change Sapphire: transformation and adaptation
Star Sapphire: protection and guidance
Multi-Color Sapphire: diversity and creativity
Conclusion
Sapphires are truly remarkable gemstones that come in a wide range of colors, each with its own unique beauty and characteristics. From classic blue sapphires to rare and unusual padparadscha sapphires, there is a sapphire color for everyone. Whether you are looking for a gemstone for an engagement ring, a special occasion, or simply to add to your collection, sapphires are a timeless and versatile choice that will never go out of style.
