Precious Stones · rare
Sapphire
Sapphire is a variety of corundum in any color except red. Blue sapphires are most prized, especially the legendary Kashmir stones.
Also known as: blue corundum, september birthstone, precious gem.
Sapphire properties at a glance
| Type | Precious Stones |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | Al2O3 |
| Mohs hardness | 9 |
| Crystal system | trigonal |
| Luster | adamantine |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 4 |
| Transparency | transparent |
| Common colors | Blue, Pink, Yellow, Orange, Green, White |
| Rarity | rare |
Geology & background
Forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks under high pressure and temperature with iron and titanium impurities.
Associated with royalty for centuries, including Princess Diana's engagement ring now worn by Kate Middleton.
How to identify Sapphire
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Sapphire examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Sapphire identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Sapphire vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Sapphire.
Where Sapphire is found
Sapphire is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Sapphire worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $500 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $5000 |
| Premium specimen | $50000+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Watch crystals
- Scientific instruments
Interesting facts
- Kashmir sapphires are among the most valuable gems in the world
- The famous Star of India is a 563-carat star sapphire
- Sapphires can display asterism (star effect)
Care & safety
Treat Sapphire as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Sapphire FAQ
What is Sapphire?
Sapphire is a variety of corundum in any color except red. Blue sapphires are most prized, especially the legendary Kashmir stones.
How much is Sapphire worth?
Entry-level Sapphire specimens sell for around $500, a typical collector specimen for about $5000, and premium pieces for $50000 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Sapphire?
Sapphire has a Mohs hardness of 9. It scratches glass, steel and even quartz; only harder gems will mark it.
Where is Sapphire found?
Notable sources of Sapphire include Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Kashmir, Madagascar, and Montana, USA. Forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks under high pressure and temperature with iron and titanium impurities..
What is Sapphire used for?
Sapphire is used for jewelry, watch crystals, and scientific instruments.
