Natural Blue Unheated Sapphires: A True Gem of Nature
When it comes to gemstones, few can rival the allure and mystique of the natural blue sapphire. These gems have been cherished for centuries, symbolising wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Among the various types of sapphires, natural blue unheated sapphires hold a special place due to their purity and rarity. For gem enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking an engagement ring or statement piece, a natural unheated sapphire offers something truly unique.
What is a Natural Blue Unheated Sapphire?
A natural blue unheated sapphire is a sapphire that has not undergone any form of heat treatment. In the world of gemstones, heat treatment is a common process used to enhance colour and clarity. However, an unheated sapphire is valued for its raw beauty—completely untouched by human intervention after it is extracted from the earth.
These sapphires showcase their original colour and clarity, making them a prized choice for those who seek an authentic and rare gem. The "natural" designation means that not only is the stone unheated, but it is also free from artificial enhancements like irradiation or diffusion treatments, which are sometimes used to alter a stone's appearance.
Colour and Appearance
The blue in a natural sapphire comes from trace elements of iron and titanium within the stone. The intensity of the color can range from a light pastel blue to a rich, velvety deep blue, with the most prized being a vivid, medium-deep royal blue. The natural, untreated stones often possess a slightly different hue compared to their heated counterparts. Some may display colour zoning, which occurs when different areas of the stone have varying intensities of colour. This natural zoning adds to the character and individuality of the gemstone.
The clarity of natural unheated sapphires varies, with inclusions being quite common. Inclusions are not necessarily seen as flaws, but rather as evidence that the stone is a product of nature, untouched by modern technology.
Why Choose Unheated?
The choice of an unheated sapphire is often rooted in the desire for purity. Many gemstone lovers value the fact that an unheated sapphire remains in the exact state as when it was formed millions of years ago. This untouched quality is something that resonates with people seeking a natural, rare, and authentic gemstone.
For investors and collectors, unheated sapphires are particularly valuable because of their scarcity. Only a small percentage of sapphires are of high enough quality to be sold without heat treatment, making them more desirable in the market. Furthermore, when it comes to long-term value, unheated sapphires are often seen as more stable, since treated stones can sometimes lose their enhancements over time.
Origins and Mining Locations
The most renowned sources of natural blue unheated sapphires include Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Madagascar, Myanmar (Burma), and Kashmir. Of these, Kashmir sapphires are considered the finest and are extremely rare due to the limited availability of stones from this region. Burmese sapphires are known for their deep, intense blue, while Sri Lankan sapphires often showcase a beautiful cornflower blue shade.
In recent years, Madagascar has emerged as a major player in the sapphire market, producing high-quality stones that rival those from traditional sources. Each origin has its own unique qualities, but regardless of the source, unheated sapphires from any region are considered special.
How to Identify a Natural Unheated Sapphire
Identifying an unheated sapphire can be challenging without professional help. Gemological laboratories like GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and AGS (American Gem Society) offer gemstone certification, which can verify whether a sapphire is natural and untreated. These certifications will typically indicate whether the stone has undergone any treatments and provide important information about the gem's quality.
When buying an unheated sapphire, always request a certificate from a reputable lab to ensure you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for.
How to Care for Your Unheated Sapphire
Though sapphires are one of the hardest gemstones, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale, they still require proper care to maintain their beauty. Here are some tips for keeping your natural blue unheated sapphire in pristine condition:
- Avoid harsh chemicals: While sapphires are durable, exposure to strong chemicals can cause damage. Always remove your sapphire jewelry when handling cleaning agents.
- Regular cleaning: Clean your sapphire with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as these can sometimes affect the inclusions within unheated stones.
- Store properly: Keep your sapphire jewelry separate from other gemstones to avoid scratches. It’s best to store it in a soft pouch or padded box.
Blue Sapphire Ring: How to Wear and Measure Your Ring Size at Home
A blue sapphire ring is a symbol of elegance, wisdom, and loyalty. Whether you're drawn to its rich history or the mesmerising deep blue hue, wearing a blue sapphire ring can elevate any look and hold deep personal meaning.
How to Wear a Blue Sapphire Ring
Traditionally, blue sapphires are associated with Saturn (Shani) in astrology, and many wear them to bring stability and protection. For astrological benefits, the ring is often worn on the middle finger of the right hand. However, if you're wearing it for style, you can wear it on any finger that feels comfortable.
For maximum impact, blue sapphire pairs beautifully with platinum or white gold settings, as these metals complement the gemstone’s deep hue.
How to Measure Ring Size at Home
To get the perfect fit for your blue sapphire ring, you can measure your ring size at home using a simple method:
1. Wrap a string or strip of paper around the base of your finger where you'd like to wear the ring.
2. Mark where the string overlaps with a pen.
3. Measure the length of the string or paper in millimetres.
4. Compare your measurement to a ring size chart, which you can easily find online.
Make sure to measure your finger at room temperature and later in the day, as finger size can fluctuate.
With the right ring size and style, your blue sapphire ring will be a cherished addition to your jewellery collection!
Conclusion
Natural blue unheated sapphires are a stunning testament to the beauty of nature. Their rarity, purity, and rich history make them a favourite among gem enthusiasts and collectors alike. If you’re in search of a gemstone that tells a story, holds value, and remains untouched by modern enhancements, an unheated sapphire is the perfect choice. Whether for an engagement ring or a special piece of jewellery, this gemstone embodies timeless beauty and natural wonder.
Choosing a natural blue unheated sapphire means owning a piece of history—one that is as pure as the day it was discovered.
