Pink sapphires have become more widely available since new deposits were found in Madagascar in the late 1990s. Until that time, pink sapphires were considered exceptionally rare since they were only found in a few locations around the world. While pink sapphires are hardly as elusive and expensive as pink diamonds, they are still very rare.
Let’s learn where this beautiful stone comes from, what it is and how to wear it.
Are Pink Sapphires Rare?
Pink sapphires belong to the corundum family of minerals and contain traces of iron, titanium, magnesium, copper and chromium that will determine its color. Chromium is what gives rubies their red color, so stones with high traces of chromium are rubies, and stones with lower traces fall into the pink sapphire category. The only distinction that separates a red ruby from a pink sapphire is a gemologist’s color grade. That means pink sapphires can be dark or light pink, purplish pink, or even orangey pink like the extremely rare Padparadscha sapphires.
Madagascar is the leader of pink sapphires as the quantity and quality of stones from this area are unrivaled. Most of these stones have a medium vibrant pink color with an almost electric light reflection property. Beyond Madagascar, pink sapphires are found in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Burma, Mozambique, Thailand and Tanzania. Although more intense colored stones are more rare than lighter pink tones, and hence more expensive, they are not necessarily more desirable than lighter baby pink hues. A pink sapphire’s place of origin also doesn’t usually impact its price or value.
Most pink sapphires on the market are heat-treated to improve their clarity and color and to soften their purple overtones.This treatment is more widely accepted for pink sapphires than blues and does not jeopardize the stones integrity or value because it’s a low heat treatment and only alters the stones color very slightly. Unheated pink sapphires, because of their extreme rarity, are priced much higher than heated stones but worth the extra costs if you want a truly natural stone.
How Do You Wear a Pink Sapphire?
Pink sapphires have been increasing in popularity as a modern and flattering colored gemstone. Pink exudes femininity and delicacy, coupled with an inner resilience and strength, and the variety of shades of pink are some of the most universally complementary to all skin tones. Many brides prefer the unique color of a pink sapphire engagement ring to a white diamond or blue sapphire and for weddings with a blush or baby pink color scheme, pink sapphires are the perfect compliment. These stones are often set in platinum or white gold rings, which offset the richness of the color, and can also be incorporated in rose gold jewelry, which emphasizes the warmth of the feminine pink.
Cut is particularly important with lighter colored stones, as it will affect how your sapphire will sparkle. While color, clarity and carat are defined by nature, the cut of a stone is based on human talent working with the imperfections of the natural stone. A gem cutter will look to maximize the sapphire’s unique combination of clarity, color and brilliance. If the cut is poor, the stone will look dull and lifeless, but a skilled cut will bring it to life. Expert cutters will also take into consideration how inclusions appear in the stone. Most inclusions do not affect the value of a pink sapphire as long as they are not prominent, reduce its brightness, or otherwise compromise the stone’s natural beauty.
Pink sapphires are the most valuable pink colored gemstone after pink diamonds. With their high durability and striking beauty, pink sapphires are a great fit for an engagement ring, statement necklace, cocktail ring or any other piece of jewelry you desire! Our Pink Sapphire Tennis Bracelet is an elegant statement piece to add to your collection as well as our Princess Mini Huggie Earrings. We can also help you design a stunning custom piece of jewelry. Call us at (720) 560-3548 with any questions you might have.