Yellow Sapphire Engagement Ring
Yellow sapphire is a stunning gemstone that captures the essence of sunshine with its bright and radiant yellow sparkle and hue. Yellow sapphires are considered “fancy” sapphires because they are a colour other than blue. This gemstone has been used in jewellery for centuries, and it continues to be a popular choice for engagement rings, anniversary jewellery, and other special occasions. But what makes yellow sapphire so special? In this article, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about yellow sapphire including its characteristics, mining, value, durability, and grading.
Q: What are the characteristics of yellow sapphire?
A: Yellow sapphire, also known as Pukhraj, is a variety of corundum, which is a mineral species that includes ruby and sapphire. It is characterised by its bright, sunny yellow colour due to trace elements of iron. Depending on the location of mining yellow sapphire, increased iron concentrations can intensify colour saturation, leading to a richer hue ranging from pale citrus lemon to crisp canary yellow to syrupy golden hues. Yellow sapphire is also known for its durability and hardness, making it an excellent choice for jewellery worn everyday.
Q: Where is yellow sapphire mined?
A: Yellow sapphire is found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Tanzania, Australia, and Thailand. Sri Lanka is a major source of the finest quality yellow sapphires where they have been mined from riverbeds and alluvial deposits for at least 2000 years. Madagascar and Tanzania are known for producing high-quality yellow sapphires, while Australia and Thailand are known for their large deposits of the gemstone.
Q: What affects the value, durability, and grading of yellow sapphire?
A: The value, durability, and grading of yellow sapphire is determined by several factors, including its colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight. In terms of colour, the most desirable yellow sapphires have a pure yellow hue and without any secondary colours, such as green or orange. The clarity of the stone is also an essential factor, with fewer inclusions or flaws leading to an “eye-clean” clarity, higher value and better durability. A well-cut yellow sapphire will showcase its colour and brilliance, while a poorly cut stone will have a dull appearance. Finally, the carat weight of the yellow sapphire will also impact its value, with larger stones being more valuable than smaller ones.
Q: What are inclusions in yellow sapphire?
Inclusions in yellow sapphires are a natural consequence of crystal growth and appear as imperfections and can vary depending on the geographical origin of the sapphire. It’s the type and number of inclusions that really determine the value, lustre and beauty of a natural sapphire. The best clarity grade for yellow sapphires is “eye-clean” which means no inclusions visible to the naked eye. Inclusions can be feathers, mineral crystals, fingerprints and colour zoning and if these are not too prominent or reduce its brightness then the value is not compromised. The presence of an inclusion is diagnostic of a natural gemstone and can add to their uniqueness.
Q: Is yellow sapphire an ideal choice for engagement rings and anniversary jewellery?
Absolutely! Yellow sapphires are a stunning gemstone with vibrant colour, durability, and versatility. They are a unique and colourful alternative to traditional diamonds and a popular choice for various types of jewellery, including engagement rings, anniversary jewellery, necklaces, and earrings. The gemstone's bright and cheerful colour symbolises happiness, optimism, and positivity, and becomes a meaningful and heartfelt choice for couples who want to celebrate their love with a piece of jewellery that reflects their shared personalities and values. Yellow sapphires with their exquisite colour, brilliance, and high durability allowing for jewellery to be worn frequently, create the most luxurious jewellery with a contagious charm and will be cherished for years to come.
Q: What is the difference between yellow sapphire and yellow diamond?
Yellow sapphire is a gemstone made of corundum and owe their colour to the presence of iron or colour centres, while yellow diamond is a gemstone made of carbon and nitrogen is the element responsible for the yellow colour in diamonds. Both are equally as durable for daily wear and offers a fantastic opportunity for an alternative engagement ring.
Shop a range of exceptional natural yellow sapphire colours in our Deliqa collection best suited for your engagement ring and special occassion jewellery.