◂ 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
Magnificent Sapphires from Montana’s Rock Creek Mine
A look at the 2016 sapphire production from Montana’s Rock Creek deposit.
Negative Crystals in Sapphires
Sapphires from Baw Mar host multiphase inclusions in appealing patterns.
The Role of Silicon in the Color of Gem Corundum
Considers the previously unreported but critical impact of silicon on the coloration of gem-quality sapphire.
A Study of Sapphire from Chanthaburi, Thailand and its Gemological Characteristics
A report from the GIA Laboratory in Bangkok presents their findings on 59 blue sapphire samples obtained from a miner in the Khao Ploy Waen area, Chanthaburi.
Sapphires from the Gem Rush Bemainty area, Ambatondrazaka (Madagascar)
The discovery of many fine quality sapphires in this area is opening a new chapter in the conflict between conservation and gem mining in northeastern Madagascar.
An In-Depth Gemological Study of Blue Sapphires from the Baw Mar Mine (Mogok, Myanmar)
GIA field gemologists visited Baw Mar operations in 2013, 2014, and 2015. In this study, we analyzed samples collected during two separate expeditions.
Synthetic Sapphire and Synthetic Spinel Doublets
Unusual doublets created from two different synthetics are revealed at the Carlsbad laboratory.
Trapiche-Type Sapphire from Tasmania
A rare Tasmanian trapiche-type sapphire, found during a field expedition, is examined.
Update on Spectroscopy of “Gold Sheen” Sapphires
The chemical composition and spectroscopic characteristics of 14 gold sheen sapphires are examined.
Gem Fossicking: Recreational Mining in Australia
Fossicking is a special type of mining activity that Australians love. Australia is a large country rich in many types of gem resources. Come to Australia with the GIA field gemology team to feel the passion of gem fossicking in the southern hemisphere.
“Punsiri”-type FTIR Spectral Features in Natural Yellow Sapphires
Testing of natural-color yellow sapphires from Australia and Thailand with the FTIR features of “Punsiri” heat-treated material.
Sapphires from the Sutara Placer in the Russian Far East
Studies the formation and chemical composition of the largely unexamined alluvial sapphires from Russia’s Jewish Autonomous District.
