Color Change Sapphire: Gemstone and Jewelry

Color change sapphire is a beautiful gemstone that is becoming increasingly popular among jewelry enthusiasts. This stunning gemstone has the ability to change color under different lighting conditions, and it enhances the beauty of any piece of jewelry it is set in. The color change in this gemstone is caused by the way it absorbs different wavelengths of light. It can transform from blue to purple, pink to yellow, or green to brown, depending on the lighting conditions. In this article, we will discuss the various aspects of the color change sapphire, including its history, formation, characteristics, and uses in jewelry.

History: 

Sapphires have been known and valued for thousands of years. They were first mined in ancient times in places like Sri Lanka and India. They were prized for their beauty and durability and were commonly used in royal jewelry. Color change sapphires, however, were not discovered until much later.

They were first found in the early 19th century in Sri Lanka. These gemstones were initially thought to be two different types of gemstones, but in 1831, they were identified as color change sapphires. Since then, color change sapphires have been found in other parts of the world, including Tanzania and Madagascar. Today, they are highly prized by jewelry designers and collectors alike.

Formation: 

Color change sapphires are formed in the same way as all other sapphires. They are a variety of corundum, which is a mineral consisting of aluminum oxide. They form in metamorphic and igneous rocks under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. The gemstone gets its color from the presence of certain trace elements such as iron, titanium, and chromium.

The presence of these elements also affects the gemstone's ability to change color. Color change sapphires typically form in underground mines and are often found in conjunction with other minerals such as zircon and spinel.

Characteristics: 

Color change sapphires are characterized by their ability to change color under different lighting conditions. They appear blue or purple under natural daylight, and they transform to pink or violet under incandescent light sources. They turn yellow or green under fluorescent light sources. The intensity of the color change can vary depending on the gemstone's size, cut, and quality. The most valuable color change sapphires have a clear and distinct color change, while the less valuable ones have a subtle change.

Color change sapphires also have other characteristics that affect their value, including their color, clarity, and cut. The gemstone's color can range from light to dark blue, violet, or green. The gemstone's clarity can range from flawless to heavily included, and its cut can vary from traditional round cuts to fancy cuts like pear, marquise, and cushion cuts.

Uses in Jewelry: 

Color change sapphires are highly sought after by jewelry designers because of their unique characteristics. They are often used as center stones in rings, pendants, and earrings. They can also be used as side stones in conjunction with other gemstones like diamonds, rubies, and emeralds.

One of the most popular uses of color change sapphires is in engagement rings. They add a unique touch to traditional engagement rings and are often paired with diamonds to create a striking contrast. Color change sapphires are also popular in cocktail rings and other statement pieces. Their ability to change color makes them ideal for creating eye-catching pieces that stand out.

Care and Maintenance: 

Color change sapphires are relatively durable, but they still require proper care and maintenance. They are rated 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means they are relatively scratch-resistant. They are also resistant to heat and chemicals, making them ideal for everyday wear.

To care for your color change sapphire jewelry, clean it regularly with a soft-bristled brush, mild soap, and warm water. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials that can scratch the gemstone's surface. When storing your color change sapphire jewelry, keep it separate from other jewelry to prevent scratches and damage.

Color change sapphires are a unique and beautiful gemstone that has captured the attention of jewelry enthusiasts around the world. They are highly valued for their ability to change color under different lighting conditions and are often used as center stones in engagement rings, pendants, and earrings. These gemstones are relatively durable and require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity. With their striking colors and unique characteristics, color change sapphires are sure to continue to be popular in the world of fine jewelry for years to come.