When it comes to precious gemstones, sapphires are among the most sought-after. They are known for their striking blue color, but they can also come in various hues such as yellow, pink, purple, and green. Natural untreated sapphires are considered some of the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world. In this blog post, we will explore what makes natural untreated sapphires unique, why they are a valuable investment, and how to choose and care for them properly. 

What are Natural Untreated Sapphires?

Natural untreated sapphires are gemstones that are mined from the earth and have not undergone any treatment to enhance their color or clarity. Unlike treated sapphires, which have been heat-treated or irradiated to enhance their color or clarity, natural untreated sapphires are pure and have not been altered in any way. They are rare and highly valued due to their natural beauty and unique characteristics.

The various colors of natural untreated sapphires range from blue, pink, yellow, green, purple, and colorless. Blue sapphire is the most popular, and it is known for its deep, vivid blue color. Pink sapphires, on the other hand, range from light pink to magenta, and they are becoming increasingly popular in the jewelry industry. Yellow sapphires come in shades of lemon yellow, canary yellow, and golden yellow, and they are valued for their brightness and warmth.

The properties and characteristics of natural untreated sapphires are what make them unique. They have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, which is second only to diamonds, making them durable and ideal for everyday wear. They also have a high refractive index, which gives them sparkle and brilliance. Another notable characteristic is their pleochroism, which means they can display different colors when viewed from different angles.

Why Choose Natural Untreated Sapphires?

One of the main reasons to choose natural untreated sapphires over treated sapphires is their ethical and environmental concerns. Treated sapphires are often treated with heat or chemicals to enhance their color or clarity, and this process can harm the environment and the workers involved in the process. Additionally, treated sapphires can be sold as natural sapphires, which can be misleading to consumers.

Another reason to choose natural untreated sapphires is their rarity and value. Natural sapphires are becoming increasingly rare as mining becomes more difficult and expensive, making them more valuable as time goes on. Natural untreated sapphires are also more valuable than treated sapphires since they are considered to be more authentic and unique.

Lastly, natural untreated sapphires have a certain authenticity and uniqueness that cannot be replicated by treated sapphires. Each natural sapphire is one-of-a-kind, with its own set of characteristics and properties, making it a valuable and personal investment.

How to Choose and Care for Natural Untreated Sapphires

When selecting natural untreated sapphires, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you are getting the best value for your money. The first thing to look for is the color of the sapphire. The color should be vivid, bright, and consistent throughout the stone. The clarity of the stone should also be considered, with fewer inclusions indicating a higher quality stone.

Another important factor to consider is the cut of the stone. A well-cut sapphire will have excellent symmetry, polish, and proportions, which will enhance its overall beauty and brilliance. A poorly cut sapphire, on the other hand, can result in a dull and lifeless stone.

Caring for natural untreated sapphires is also essential to maintain their beauty and value. To clean natural sapphires, simply soak them in warm soapy water for a few minutes and gently scrub them with a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. It is also important to store natural sapphires in a safe place away from other jewelry, as they can scratch and chip if they come into contact with harder materials.

Contrasting the features of Natural untreated and Treated sapphires

The Importance of Choosing a Reputable Jeweler

When purchasing natural untreated sapphires, it is crucial to choose a reputable jeweler who can provide you with the proper documentation and information about the stone. Reputable jewelers will have certifications and documentation from reputable gemological laboratories, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gemological Society (AGS), to prove the authenticity and quality of the stone.

Famous Natural Untreated Sapphires

There are several famous natural untreated sapphires that are worth mentioning. The Blue Belle of Asia is a 400-carat sapphire that was discovered in Sri Lanka and sold for $17.3 million in 2014. The Logan Sapphire is a 423-carat sapphire that was donated to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and is one of the largest faceted sapphires in the world. The Star of Bombay is a 182-carat sapphire that was given to actress Mary Pickford by her husband, Douglas Fairbanks, and later donated to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

Conclusion

In conclusion, natural untreated sapphires are a rare and valuable investment that is worth considering for anyone in the market for precious gemstones. Their beauty, rarity, and authenticity make them a unique and personal choice for jewelry enthusiasts. When choosing natural untreated sapphires, it is essential to look for a reputable jeweler and consider factors such as color, clarity, and cut. Proper care is also necessary to maintain their value and beauty. Natural untreated sapphires are truly a gemstone like no other, and they will continue to hold their value and allure for generations to come.