Do you adore this gemstone’s beautiful, rich colors, just like I do? I’ve always been curious about sapphires and where they come from. You’re in the perfect place if you’re as curious as I am. A tell-all about the best blue sapphires in the world.
These special gemstones can have different colors, but it’s the stunning and scarce vivid blue shade, as well as the many other colors sapphires, come in, that have impressed and fascinated people who love gems worldwide.
This guide will delve into the origins of these colored magnificent sapphire stones, nine on Moh’s scale (scale of hardness), to explore some of the world’s renowned sources of these precious blue gemstones.
The History of Sapphires Begins Centuries Ago
Sapphires have a rich historical legacy dating back thousands of years. “Sapphire” derives from the Greek word “sappheiros,” signifying the blue hue. These precious stones have been associated with nobility, wisdom, and protection throughout history. The ancient Persians believed that the Earth rested on a giant sapphire, attributing the sky’s blueness to it. In India, sapphire stones were revered as sacred gemstones linked to various deities.
How Significant Is Sapphire Stone Origin?
The origin of a best blue sapphire stone plays a pivotal role in determining its quality, rarity, and value. Different sources yield sapphire stones with distinct characteristics, including color, clarity, and size. Some origins are celebrated for specific attributes, making them highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.
Challenges in Determining Sapphire Stone Origin
Finding out exactly where this colored gemstone comes from can be pretty tricky because of a few reasons. Sometimes, the place where it comes from may be in more than one country, which makes it hard to say exactly where. Also, as things have evolved, the trading methods of these coloured sapphires have changed. Many more have entered the business. The chain from mines to markets is now complicated. To know one sapphire from another and assess its authentic origin, there are gemologists and third-party labs.
Let’s dive into different types of best blue sapphire in the world.
Kashmir: Best Blue Sapphire
Among all the valuable sapphires, Kashmir holds a special place as the ultimate blue sapphire treasure. Tucked away in the Himalayan region, these Kashmir sapphire stones are like no other, known for their velvety blue hues. This exceptional shade is often called “Kashmir blue,” and it stands as the benchmark by which all other blue gemstones are measured. The charm of these gemstones from Kashmir goes beyond their mesmerizing color; it’s their rarity that adds to their charm. The Kashmir mines, discovered in the late 19th century, have yielded only a limited quantity of these precious gemstones, making them highly sought after and among the most expensive sapphires worldwide.
Sri Lanka (Ceylon) & Madagascar
Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, has been a significant source of sapphires for centuries. Sri Lankan sapphire stones are loved for their brilliance, transparency, and a wide range of colors, from light blue to deep blue. The world’s largest blue sapphire, the Blue Belle of Asia, hails from Sri Lanka.
In recent years, Madagascar has emerged as another important source of best blue sapphire. The blue gemstones from Madagascar have an intense blue color and are highly esteemed by gem enthusiasts. The island nation has become a significant player in the global sapphire market.
Burma
Burma, now officially known as Myanmar, has long been associated with the finest rubies, but it is also a source of exceptional blue sapphires. Burmese sapphire stones are known for their rich, royal blue color and exceptional clarity. The Mogok Valley in Burma is famous for producing some of the world’s most exquisite sapphires. For more information, you may read this book.
Thailand and Australia
Thailand and Australia have also become notable sources of sapphires in recent decades. Thailand, with its skilled lapidaries, has established itself as a major hub for sapphire cutting and trading. Thai sapphire stones are often celebrated for their precision-cut and vibrant colors.
Australia, on the other hand, is recognized for its dark blue and green sapphires. The region of New South Wales, in particular, has become known for its high-quality blue-hued gemstones.
Everything you need to know about Blue Sapphires about these regal gemstones
Wrap up
The best blue sapphires, with their rich history, and diverse shades of blue are gemstones that embody the essence of beauty and rarity. The origin of a sapphire stone plays a vital role in determining its unique characteristics and value. Each source offers a distinct charm, from the legendary Kashmir sapphires with velvety blue colour to the brilliant Ceylon blue sapphires of Sri Lanka and the royal blue Burmese treasures.
As natural sapphire mining and trading continue to evolve, new sources, like Madagascar, Thailand, and Australia, are making their mark in the world of blue-hued gemstones. With their timeless beauty and significance, these gems will undoubtedly continue to be treasured by generations to come.
Whether you’re a collector, a connoisseur, or simply an admirer of these exquisite precious stones, thanks to globalization, the best blue sapphires transcend borders, making them available to you anywhere in the world.