Tips For Buying Sapphire Jewelry

The word sapphire comes from the Greek word "sappherios" which is believed to be originally referred to lapis lazuli. The gemstone belongs to the mineral corundum family. According to the ancient beliefs the sapphire gemstone is associated with longevity and endurance in love, so most of the couples prefer sapphire rings for their engagements.
Sapphire is also known to posses magical powers. It is used to give a powerful defense against the spells. The wearer is kept away from unwanted thoughts and brings in peace, joy and wealth to people. The star sapphire is called the stone of destiny.

Color -- When buying sapphire the most important thing to be considered is color. Sapphire gemstone comes in almost all colors ranging from white, pink, brown, peach, yellow, orange, violet, purple and green. However the blue color sapphire which has the color tones, from faint blue to deepest dark blue is the widely used one in jewelry industry. A pure cornflower blue is considered to be the most durable hue. In determining the value or preciousness of a sapphire, colors plays very important role. Fine gemstones of good color and clarity are rare and valuable. Sapphires which are too dark or too light are worth considerably les.

Clarity -- Clarity also plays an important role in shaping the beauty and value. Sapphires are not inclusion free like diamonds but are clearer than rubies and emeralds. Heat treatment is a usual practice to improve the color and clarity of the stone. If not treated these flaws and inclusions would affect the luster of the gemstone.

Characteristics -- Sapphires {Al2O3} are non red variety of mineral corundum with a hardness of 9 on Mohs scale. Sapphire is the second hardest mineral, just next to diamond. The hardness of this corundum makes it a good choice for daily wear. Higher the level of hardness, better the chances of the gemstone's resistance to breaking, cracking and chipping. This quality of sapphire makes it the perfect gem for rings. You can be rest assured if you buy a sapphire ring that it would withstand and would last for long.

Price -- People buying sapphire ring must know that sapphire is the birthstone for the month of September. So, if you are buying a sapphire engagement ring , September would be the ideal month to plan your engagement. Sapphire jewelry prices too vary according to the color. A purple sapphire ring would cost less than the usual blue sapphire ring. The cut and size are also responsible for the variation in prices.

Buying sapphire rings online, one must make sure that the retailer avails you with the return policy and the certificate. The jewelry certificate from GIA or other reputed jewelry certifiers is an assurance that the jewelry is real and is worth the price you are paying

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