The 5 C's of Blue Sapphires: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

Blue sapphires are always an excellent choice when it comes to gemstones, due to their deep color and rich luster. But how do you know what makes one blue sapphire better than another? Blue sapphires come in many different colors and qualities - how can you make sure you’re getting the best one for your budget? This comprehensive buying guide breaks down everything you need to know about blue sapphires, including their history, where they come from, what makes them so special, and more! Read on to learn everything there is to know about these beautiful gems!

 

1) Color

The first C in blue sapphires is color. The most important thing to consider when evaluating a blue sapphire is its color. The ideal color for a blue sapphire is a deep, rich blue. The closer the stone is to this ideal, the more valuable it will be. However, even stones that are not quite the ideal color can be beautiful and valuable.

 

2) Cut

The cut of blue sapphire is what determines its overall shape and how well the stone reflects light. When choosing a sapphire, be sure to pick one with a good cut as this will affect both the look and value of the stone. Ideally, choose a stone that has been graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) because it will have undergone stringent testing for clarity and color. In addition, when buying gemstones online make sure you read any reviews for details about the quality of the cut before making your purchase.

 

3) Clarity

When it comes to blue sapphires, clarity is key. The clearer the stone, the more valuable it is. Inclusions can make a sapphire appear cloudy, so be sure to inspect the stone closely before making a purchase. If you're looking for a flawless sapphire, be prepared to pay a premium price. Stones with perfect clarity will cost significantly more than ones with inclusions or other flaws. However, if your budget doesn't allow for such a luxury, know that there are plenty of high-quality sapphire stones on the market that are under $1000 and still have good clarity.

 

4) Carat weight

When it comes to blue sapphires, carat weight is one of the most important factors to consider. The heavier the stone, the more valuable it is. However, you also need to take into account the quality of the stone. A heavy stone with poor clarity will be worth less than a smaller stone with excellent clarity. Carat weight can vary widely in stones that are comparable in terms of color and clarity. So if you're buying online, don't make your decision solely based on carat weight.

Blue sapphire rings often come in sizes from 1-3 ct., which means that if you're looking for a ring for yourself or someone else, keep this in mind when deciding what size to buy.

 

5) Certifications

Certifications are important when buying blue sapphires because they guarantee that the stone is natural and untreated. The most important certification for blue sapphires is from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Other important certifications include the American Gem Society (AGS) and the European Gemological Laboratory (EGL). The AGS also has its own grading system, so it can be confusing to figure out which certificate the seller is referring to.

The GIA uses a grading scale where I-J indicates a poor quality sapphire with visible inclusions, while M-Z indicates high-quality loose gemstones with few or no inclusions at all.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, when purchasing a blue sapphire, be sure to consider the 5 C's: carat weight, color, clarity, cut, and cost. With these factors in mind, you'll be sure to find the perfect stone to fit your needs! Remember that buying blue sapphires is an investment - they will not lose their value or stop being beautiful over time.