SAPPHIRE COLORS AND VARIETIES
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Blue Sapphire: Known for its range from greenish blue to violetish blue, blue sapphire is the quintessential representation of this gemstone, embodying a depth and consistency of color unparalleled in most other gemstones. The finest quality, often described as "velvety" or "Kashmir blue," originates from the disputed region along the India/Pakistan border.
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Padparadscha Sapphires: This unique pinkish-orange sapphire is named after the Sinhalese word for "lotus flower." Highly coveted and rare, padparadscha offers a stunning visual reminiscent of sunset hues.
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Violet and Purple Sapphires: Often found in Sri Lanka and Tanzania, these sapphires can range from light lilac to deep royal purple. The presence of vanadium and chromium can contribute to their vibrant colors.
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Green Sapphires: These are typically colored by iron and can range from light mint green to deep forest green. They are less commonly found but offer a subtle and sophisticated alternative to more traditional gemstones.
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Yellow and Orange Sapphires: These sunny hues result mainly from trace amounts of iron. Yellow sapphires can vary from pale lemon to rich golden colors, while orange sapphires might exhibit colors from a delicate peach to a vivid sunset orange.
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Pink Sapphires: Ranging from soft pastels to hot pinks, pink sapphires often contain traces of chromium and can be as intensely colored as rubies.
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*images courtesy of Gem 2000. Used with permission.
