Location and Physical Characteristics of Sapphires

The Sapphire is the other great branch of the Corundum family of gems. It differs from the ruby only in color.

Color

Sapphires vary in tint from the lightest blue to a deep blackish blue, and, similar to rubies, are valued chiefly according to their color. The soft, velvety blue most approaching the blue of the cornflower of England, which is known in our country as the bachelor's button, is the most valued color in sapphires. The best stones should show this color by artificial as well as by natural light.

Value of Large Size Stones

Although choice sapphires are uncommon, fine large stones are more frequently found than rubies of similar size, and consequently the price does not advance with an increase in size so rapidly as it does with rubies.

Sapphires are found in various places, each locality producing its distinctive shade.

Where finest Sapphires are Found

The finest specimens are termed Cashmere sapphires, and occur in the Himalaya Mountains of the State of Kashmir in India. These gems possess a velvety luster, and a vivid color of the true cornflower shade, without the slightest trace of green or black.

Another important locality for sapphires is Burmah. These Burmah or oriental sapphires have a much darker shade of blue. While they bear the name Burmah, most of the stones come from the adjacent country of Siam. The most important mine is the Bo Pie Rim mine, in Battambang.

Ceylon produces sapphires of very light shades, ranging from delicate pale gray blue to purplish blue.