◂ BACK TO GEM ENCYCLOPEDIA
Sapphire
The name “sapphire” can also apply to any corundum that’s not ruby red, another corundum variety.
See Gem As
Tools
Research
Low-Temperature Heat Treatment of Corundum and the Behavior of the 3161 cm–1 Infrared Band
A study analyzing the thermal behavior of the 3161 cm–1 IR feature in 10 natural corundum samples from various deposits.
The Primary Sapphire Occurrence at French Bar Sill Along the Missouri River, Near Helena, Montana
Reports on a new source of primary gem-quality sapphire from Montana, comparing its inclusions and trace element chemistry with those from secondary sources in the state.
Quench-Crackled and Dyed Laboratory-Grown Sapphire
The Carlsbad lab receives a laboratory-grown colorless sapphire with weblike fractures containing concentrations of dye.
Dark Red Tantalite Crystal in Greenish Blue Sapphire
The blunt termination of a red manganotantalite inclusion displays a striking contrast against a greenish blue sapphire.
The Talisman of Charlemagne: New Historical and Gemological Discoveries
Reveals new details about this historical jewel and the results of its first gemological analysis.
Sapphire Quality Factors
Sapphire is one of the big three of colored gemstones (the other two are ruby and emerald). This durable gemstone captures jewelry buyers with its practicality and aura of romance. Click here and learn about the factors that make sapphire so desirable!
Abstracts; Fall 1991
This article, from the Fall 1991 issue of Gems & Gemology, is a compilation of abstracts of important gemology-related articles published outside of Gems & Gemology.
Abstracts; Winter 1991
This article, from the Winter 1991 issue of Gems & Gemology, is a compilation of abstracts of important gemology-related articles published outside of Gems & Gemology.
Sapphire Description
Blue sapphire belongs to the mineral species corundum. It can be a pure blue but ranges from greenish blue to violetish blue. The name “sapphire” can also apply to any corundum that’s not red and doesn’t qualify as ruby, another corundum variety.
Sapphire Care and Cleaning Guide
Learn about sapphire's durability and how to care for your sapphire jewelry.
Sapphire History and Lore
Traditionally, sapphire symbolizes nobility, truth, sincerity, and faithfulness.
Sapphire Journey
The name “sapphire” can also apply to any corundum that’s not ruby, another corundum variety
