“Sappheiros” – The Beautiful Velvety Blue Sapphire
The word Sapphire brings to mind the reflection of velvety blue colored beautiful gemstone. Greek word “Sappheiros” for a Sapphire means blue. The name in Latin, "Sapphiru," also means blue. A Sapphire is believed to be a gem of the sky and is also known as “stone of destiny”. Its blue color is the most striking characteristic of this alluring gemstone.
A gift of a sapphire symbolizes a pledge of trust and loyalty. It is from this tradition that sapphire has long been a popular choice for engagement rings. A blue Sapphire gemstone symbolizes loyalty, harmony, friendship, indestructible trust and understanding. It also embodies feelings which belong to qualities that prove their worth in long term. Dark blue color of Sapphire represents knowledge, power, integrity, and seriousness.
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Madagascar is considered to be the world leader in sapphire production. City of IIakaka in Madagascar takes in and around great deposits of blue Sapphire. Before Madagascar, Australia was the largest producer of sapphires. The Sapphires from "Kashmir" have great value in international markets. The Ceylon Blue Sapphires are also sought after greatly.
Properties :- Blue Sapphire possesses excellent properties which make it an ideal choice in the lush world of Gemstones.
Hardness: 9
Toughness: Very good
Specific gravity: 4.00 (+/- .03)
Refractive index: 1.76 to 1.77
Double refraction: -0.008
Main Sources: Madagascar, Thailand, Australia, Sri-Lanka, Africa
Treatment: Heat and/or irradiation to enhance color (stable).
Reaction to heat: Good, but possible color change.
These fantastic properties set this gorgeous gemstone apart.
It is the Birthstone for the month of September and is associated with Aquarius, Virgo, Libra and Capricorn. Sapphire is the symbol of Saturn (dark blue) and Venus (light blue) as well. The blue color of Sapphire goes from dark blue almost black to pale blue. The finest blue Sapphires possess strong blue hues. The ancient Persian rulers believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire and its reflection colored the heavens blue.
Personalities who adore :
List of avid collectors of this fascinating gemstone includes Elizabeth Taylor, Mary Pickford, Joan Crawford, Jean Harlow, and Ivana Trump Mazzuchelli.
The name Blue Sapphire spells fire. Blue Sapphire jewelry has been an object of obsession for ages. The stone renders sophistication to the owner. Sapphire jewellery is preferred to mark special occasions like engagements, weddings and anniversaries. To create an impression of sophistication and royalty one must have this wonderful gemstone.
