Sapphires: An Introduction
While it is general knowledge that the diamond is the hardest natural substance known today, few know that second only to the diamond in hardness is the sapphire. Perhaps this is indicative of the sapphire’s “unlucky” history, so to speak. Throughout history, sapphires have always been mistaken as other gemstones. Green sapphires were known as emeralds and purple ones were known as amethysts.
However, for the most part, sapphires have always been revered. There is a belief that Earth’s sky is nothing but a gigantic blue sapphire, and there is perhaps nothing more true given that sapphires exist in all shades of blue – not unlike the various blue shades of the sky. The only reason why sapphires have been mistaken for other gemstones is the fact that sapphires exist in a large variety of colours - whether blue, green, purple, yellow, or pink – though blue sapphires remain the most popular among them all.
Besides the sheer beauty of the sapphire, there are many other reasons to own one. On the more fantastic side of things, some believe that wizards and magicians couldn’t live without the sapphire as it was a key component in their efforts to control spirits. On a more spiritual side of things, ancient kings once wore sapphires to protect them from jealousy and harm, while the clergy believed that the sapphire symbolised the celestial and therefore, preferred it above all other gemstones.
More conventionally, many own sapphires as they help to improve ones mood and ease pressure. The fact that blue, the predominant colour of sapphires, is associated with emotions such as harmony and sympathy is said to be a reason for this. Sapphires are also said to be able to create balance, loyalty and stability - a key reason why many women like sapphire engagement rings.
Sapphires come in different shapes and forms, some rarer than others (e.g. star sapphires). But like other gemstones, their value hinges on more critical factors, i.e. size, colour, transparency, and geographic origin. The most highly cherished sapphires come from Kashmir, Burma and Ceylon. Of course, non-natural factors can also play a part in determining the value of a sapphire. For one, untreated sapphires are more valuable than those that have been treated.
In any case, low and medium quality sapphires can actually be quite common, but high quality sapphires still remain a rarity even today. So, investing in a top quality sapphire will always be a good move. Not only will you have one of the most beautful, useful and highly regarded gemstones, but the sheer hardness of the sapphire make them especially easy to care for.
