Sapphire

Sapphires are graded primarily by color intensity, tone, and clarity.
The most valued blue sapphires display a vivid, velvety blue hue with medium tone.
“Cornflower Blue” Kashmir sapphires are among the rarest and most prized.
Clarity plays a smaller role than color; slight inclusions are acceptable if color is exceptional.

Clean sapphires with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
Avoid harsh chemicals and thermal shock.
Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated sapphires, but not for fracture-filled or diffused stones.

Q: Are sapphires always blue?
No — sapphires occur in nearly every color except red (which is classified as ruby).

Q: What does “Padparadscha” mean?
It refers to a rare pinkish-orange sapphire color, named after the lotus flower.