Gem Index Sapphire

Sapphire

If I had to pick a favourite gemstone (and it would be a very tough choice), it would probably be Sapphire. They come in so many colours and cuts you're completely spoilt for choice and way they handle colour and light always delights and surprises me.

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What is a Sapphire?

Just like ruby, sapphire is a type of corundum, one of the hardest minerals on Earth. Any corundum that is not ruby red can be referred to as 'sapphire'.

If you’re looking for a super sparkly coloured gemstone that’s hardwearing, and comes in a range of different colours, then Sapphire is the perfect gemstone to go for.

Corundum

Mineral

9

Hardness (out of 10)

September

Birthstone

5th & 45th

Anniversary

Moira Patience sapphire and diamond engagement ring

My First Bespoke Commission

Over a decade ago, one of my first bespoke commissions as a young independent jewellery designer was this Art Deco style sapphire and diamond engagement ring.

Colour

A lot of people don’t realise that Sapphires come in a wide range of different colours. In general, the most desirable and valuable are the bright vivid cornflower blue varieties, but they also come in hues of green, pink, yellow, orange, purple and even white.

Where are Sapphires Found?

Sapphires come from all over the world; most notably Sri Lanka, Kashmir and Myanmar. Some of the more blue/green colours come from Australia and significant quantities have also been found in Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar and the United States, among other countries in Asia and Africa.

Ghlas oval teal sapphire and half-moon diamond ring in platinum, gemstone close-up

Hardness

Sapphires are super durable, 9/10 on the Mohs scale of hardness so second only to diamonds (which are still much harder than anything else). It’s relatively hardwearing compared to other gemstones making it ideal for jewellery that you wear every day.

Myths & Legends

Sapphire has been known as a stone of wisdom, royalty, prophecy, and divine favour. Interestingly, sapphires were also believed to be popular among witches for their unique ability to tap into the 'third eye' and connect with the spirit world.

Moira Patience Padparadscha sapphire engagement ring

Padparadscha Sapphires

Padparadscha sapphires are one of the rarest sapphires with unique tones of orange, pink, and yellow. The name 'Padparadscha' is an ancient Sanskrit word used to describe the colour of a tropical lotus flower.

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Bespoke Sapphire Jewellery Commissions

Teal Sapphire Flowing Engagement Ring

Creating this ring for G & E was such an exciting challenge. Their inspiration images included Renaissance sculpture, the Pacific Ocean and her mother’s own engagement ring...

Sapphire & Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

From start to finish, this bespoke engagement ring was an absolute joy to create. I’m obsessed with coloured gems and sapphires are one of my favourites, so this was a real treat...

Yellow Sapphire & Diamond Engagement Ring

I’ve had this gorgeous yellow sapphire in my collection for a while, and it’s so special to see it find its forever home in R & L’s bespoke engagement ring...

Teal Sapphire & Diamond Petal Setting Lotus Flower Engagement Ring

Teal Sapphire & Diamond Engagement Ring

This octagon teal sapphire is a knock-out; It’s the perfect hue and brightness. We set it in 18ct yellow gold with two rows of baguettes diamonds...

Yellow Sapphire & Diamond Engagement Ring

My client came to us at the start of the year with an heirloom cluster ring that she wanted to remodel. The baguette diamonds in the centre of the ring...