Factors Affecting Blue Sapphire Quality: Characteristics of the Ideal Blue Sapphire
Gemstones of varying hues, including sapphire, emerald, and
ruby, belong to the category of colored gemstones. These gemstones are derived
from a mineral known as corundum. While sapphire is often associated with its
blue variety or referred to as Neelam, it actually comes in a range of colors
and combinations. The value of a sapphire is determined by the intensity of its
color, with pink, orange, yellow, green, purple, and violet being some examples
of fancy sapphire colors. Generally, darker shades command greater worth,
making them more expensive.
Many individuals inquire about the optimal color for a bluesapphire, which primarily hinges on its saturation. The gemstone can exhibit a
spectrum of shades, from a rich velvety blue to a violet-blue, with variations
in lightness and darkness.
Blue sapphires, commonly known as Neelam gemstones, are mined
from specific locations worldwide, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and
Madagascar. Each mining site imparts unique characteristics to the sapphires,
thereby influencing their overall quality.
Which Blue Sapphire is Superior: Dark or Light?
When it comes to blue sapphires, there is often a debate about
whether darker or lighter tones are more desirable. Blue sapphires, often
associated with Aquarius as their birthstone, exude a sense of auspiciousness
through their vibrant color. Those who prefer lighter shades have a range of
colored sapphires to choose from. However, it is generally acknowledged that
darker sapphires hold greater value and are considered more precious than their
lighter counterparts.
Clarity: Like other gemstones, sapphires may contain inclusions,
which affect their grade. Neelam gemstones also have some invisible inclusions
that cannot be seen with the naked eye. If these inclusions are visible, it
indicates that the stone is a synthetic replica and not an authentic Neelam
gemstone.
Cut: Sapphires, being naturally mined, do not occur in the
precise shapes and designs we commonly see. They undergo polishing and faceting
processes to achieve a smooth texture and enhance their sparkle. The quality of
the cut is evaluated based on factors such as symmetry, windowing, extinction,
and brilliance.
Carat: Carat refers to the weight of the sapphire. Larger
sapphires are more challenging to come by and therefore hold higher value.
While yellow sapphires often exceed 5 carats, finding an original blue sapphire
of the same weight is rare.
Price: Each stone is unique, and the price of a Neelam stone can
vary based on its color and quality. Untreated and natural stones are
particularly rare and thus command a higher price. Sapphires originating from
renowned locations such as the historic Kashmir mines are also more expensive,
even if their quality is comparable.
Certification: A gemologist can provide a lab report or gem
identification report, which serves as a certificate verifying the quality of
the stone you purchase. This report contains comprehensive information about
the sapphire, ensuring authenticity and quality assurance.
While precious gemstones have traditionally been sold in
reputable physical stores, the advent of online platforms has allowed some of
these markets to expand their reach and cater to a larger customer base.
Nowadays, it is possible to purchase a Neelam stone online from reliable websites
and gemstone producers. One such trusted online shop is Brahma Gems, known for
offering high-quality, original gemstones across India through their online
shopping services.
Brahma Gems provides the option to buy Neelam stones online, as
well as other gemstones like ruby, emerald, white sapphire, pitambari, red
coral, and more. These stones are meticulously sourced from esteemed mines,
ensuring their authenticity and value. With a commitment to uncompromising
quality, Brahma Gems has established itself as a leading supplier of original
Neelam stones. Moreover, they are renowned for their exclusive collection of
yellow sapphires imported directly from Sri Lanka.
When you make a blue sapphire purchase through Brahma Gems, they
offer the added benefit of free pooja energization, enhancing the spiritual
significance of the gemstone.
Several factors contribute to making Khanna Gems the premier
online store for gemstones:
- They
provide free delivery services across India, and they also offer
international shipping, making their products accessible worldwide.
- Brahma
Gems distinguishes itself as the sole seller of 100% unheated and
untreated gemstones, ensuring the natural integrity and value of their
stones.
- Each
gemstone sold by Khanna Gems comes with authentic lab certification,
assuring customers of their quality and genuineness.
- With
a vast selection of over 100,000 stones available on their website, Khanna
Gems allows customers to customize their jewelry according to their
preferences.
Khanna Gems offers a reliable and convenient online platform for
purchasing gemstones, with a focus on quality, authenticity, and customer
satisfaction.