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Sapphire

Color:

Blue is the classic, but sapphire is also available in green, bluish purple, pink, yellow, orange and parti-colored — a mix. Color-change sapphire is blue in natural light and has a purplish cast in incandescent light. Padparadscha sapphire is pinkish orange. Star sapphires have a six-pointed “star” pattern created by inclusions. Sapphire can also be clear/white, colorless.

Gem species:

Corundum

Birthstone:

September

History:

Recorded by ancient Greeks and Romans as a protection against harm and envy. Its name is from the Latin saphirus or Greek sapheiros, both words for blue.

Use in jewelry:

Due to its hardness and durability, sapphire is ideal for any jewelry application.

Mohs hardness:

9 (1 softest to 10 hardest)

Common treatments:

Heating is common to achieve better color and clarity, irradiation may be used to change color and beryllium treatments will improve or change color. Star sapphires may undergo a diffusion treatment (heat and chemical application) to boost the appearance of the star pattern. All treatments must be discolosed.

Care:

Soap and water and a soft brush, air-dry or dry with a soft cloth.

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