Sapphire
Buyer’s Guide

Colour

Colour is the most important factor affecting sapphire value. The finest blue sapphires show strong saturation with balanced brightness. High-quality sapphires typically display:

• A vivid medium-to-deep blue hue
• Even colour distribution throughout the stone
• Strong saturation without appearing overly dark
• Good transparency and brightness

Stones that are too pale may appear washed out, while overly dark stones can lose brilliance. The most desirable sapphires show vibrant colour with lively light return.

Clarity

Sapphires generally contain fewer inclusions than emeralds but may still show natural internal features. High-quality stones typically display:

• Eye-clean appearance or minimal visible inclusions
• Good transparency and brightness
• Limited internal fractures
• Clean surfaces without scratches or chips

Some inclusions can actually confirm natural origin, but excessive inclusions may reduce brilliance and durability.

Cut

Cut plays a crucial role in maximising sapphire brilliance and colour. Skilled cutting ensures the gemstone reflects light effectively and appears vibrant.

Important cut considerations include:

• Precise facet alignment
• Good symmetry
• Proper depth and proportions
• Even polish across facets

Poor cutting can make even a good-quality sapphire appear dull or dark.

Carat Weight

Larger sapphires are significantly rarer than smaller stones, particularly when colour and clarity remain strong. As a result, price per carat increases sharply with size.

When comparing stones:

• A smaller sapphire with exceptional colour may be more valuable than a larger lower-quality stone
• Larger stones should maintain strong colour saturation
• Fine sapphires above 3–5 carats are increasingly scarce

Collectors and jewellery designers often seek well-balanced stones with strong colour and excellent cutting.