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Chemistry and Crystal Structure
Sapphire is primarily composed of aluminum oxide and belongs to the hexagonal crystal system, with hexagonal columnar crystals commonly found. Its color is determined by trace elements:
Blue: The synergistic effect of titanium (Ti⁴⁺) and iron (Fe²⁺) creates the iconic “Muzo green” color of Colombian sapphires, such as the high-chromium, low-iron environment that creates the iconic “Muzo green” color.
Non-blue: Chromium (Cr³⁺) creates pink and orange (padparadscha), while vanadium (V³⁺) produces green. Yellow and purple colors are created by a combination of other trace elements. Special Optical Effects: Parallel rutile needle-like inclusions within the sapphire can create a six-rayed star (star sapphire). Sri Lanka once produced a giant 11,685 carat star sapphire, the “Purple Blue Star.”
Physical Properties
Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamond, making it extremely wear-resistant and suitable for everyday wear.
Refractive Index and Luster: 1.76-1.77, vitreous luster, high transparency, but often containing natural inclusions (such as the “garden effect”).
Density: 3.95-4.10 g/cm³, with slight variations depending on origin (e.g., approximately 3.97 g/cm³ for Burmese sapphires).
Variety Classification
Blue Sapphires: The top varieties are Kashmir “Cornflower Blue” (indigo with a slight purplish hue) and Burmese “Royal Blue” (true blue or with a slight purplish hue).
Colored Sapphires: Available in pink, yellow, and green. Padparadscha (pinkish orange) commands a premium price due to its rarity. Special Varieties: Trapiche sapphire (six black radial lines), Cat’s-Eye Sapphire (parallel tubular inclusions create a cat’s-eye effect).