Sapphires, often found in a celestial blue hue, have long been associated with the heavens, believed to bring divine favor and wisdom to the wearer. Historically, Greeks, Buddhists, Hindus, and early Christians all valued this stone, showcasing its significance across various cultures and periods.
What is commonly known today as the standard sapphire color—violet-blue—was first discovered in India’s Kashmir region during the late 19th century. India has produced some of the most exquisite and significant sapphires, such as the 563.4-carat Star of India. Other prominent locations for sapphire mining include Madagascar and Australia.
Although blue sapphires have been highly esteemed throughout history, pink sapphires represent another popular variant.
Blue vs. Pink Sapphire
Color & Visual Appeal
While blue sapphire is often considered the classical color, it comes in various shades. The preferred color is typically blue-violet, though many also favor a rich, velvety blue. To achieve these desired tones, the blue must be of a medium-dark depth. Blue sapphires exude elegance and regality, making them a perfect match for cooler metals like platinum.
Pink sapphires exhibit a spectrum of shades from bright bubblegum pink to pale baby pink. Some pink sapphires may even have violet or red nuances, which could be mistaken for rubies. A highly saturated stone with medium to dark color is considered more valuable among pink sapphires. Romantic and feminine, pink sapphires make enchanting engagement rings and complement almost any metal tone.
Popularity in Fine Jewelry
Blue sapphires garner more attention in fine jewelry, as evidenced by Kate Middleton’s engagement ring from Prince William. However, pink sapphires are gaining traction, especially since they can resemble pink diamonds. Increasingly, pink sapphires are being featured in engagement rings.
Regardless of color, both types of sapphires can be showcased beautifully in various jewelry settings, including necklaces, stud earrings, and bangles studded with sapphires.
Symbolism
As expected, pink sapphires represent love, femininity, sincerity, trust, and compassion. Blue sapphires, thanks to their celestial hue, are often associated with wisdom or the heavens. September’s birthstone is traditionally a blue sapphire, although those born in September can choose their preferred color!
Rarity
Pink sapphires were once considered exceptionally rare until the discovery of additional deposits in Madagascar during the 1990s. Before that, few places worldwide were known for pink sapphire production. In contrast, blue sapphires are less rare, except for those with outstanding color and high clarity. Even today, pink sapphires remain rarer than the classic blue variety.
Hardness
Both blue and pink sapphires score a nine on the Mohs scale, making them incredibly durable. Their hardness makes sapphires one of the best choices for daily wear jewelry, particularly for engagement rings.
Clarity
Sapphires’ clarity can vary, and stones with excellent clarity are hard to find, regardless of their color. Most sapphires available are “eye clean,” showing no visible inclusions without magnification. Although natural gemstones typically have inclusions, superior clarity increases the stone’s value. Note that lighter pinks may reveal inclusions more easily than medium to dark blue shades.
Treatment
It’s common for commercial-grade sapphires to undergo treatment, often heat treatment, to enhance their color. Pink sapphires are heat-treated to remove purple hues, intensify their pinkness, and improve clarity. Similarly, blue sapphires can be heated to optimize their color. Heat treatment is generally accepted in the fine jewelry market.
Price & Value
Determining the more valuable color can be challenging. Blue sapphires’ classic appeal boosts their popularity, driving up their price and value. Pink sapphires, being rarer and akin to expensive pink diamonds, can also be quite valuable. However, their lower popularity might result in a lower price compared to blue. For both colors, medium-dark blues and intensely saturated pinks are considered most valuable.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, the best sapphire color for you depends on personal preference. Do you gravitate toward the classic elegance of a blue sapphire? Or do you find the romantic and rare pink sapphires more appealing? Both pink and blue sapphires share characteristics such as clarity and hardness, so choose the shade that resonates most with you confidently!
FAQs
Are pink sapphires real?
Yes, naturally occurring pink sapphires are real, although counterfeit ones made of glass do exist.
Which is more expensive – pink sapphire or blue sapphire?
Blue sapphires, being the classic color, are more popular and generally more expensive. However, high-quality pink sapphires are rare and can be quite valuable too.
What does pink sapphire symbolize?
Pink sapphire symbolizes femininity, love, truth, and sincerity.
Which is better for an engagement ring – pink or blue sapphire?
This depends on personal taste, style, and preference, as both colors are equally hard and suitable for everyday wear in an engagement ring.
