The Truth Behind the Sparkle
These gemstones are not just a feast for the eyes with their array of colors, but also carry deep meanings and a rich history. Join us on a journey to demystify sapphires, exploring their origins, colours, care, and more, to help you make an informed and heartfelt choice.
The Spectrum of Sapphire Colours
While the classic blue sapphire is renowned for its deep, mesmerizing hue, sapphires actually span a stunning range of colours. Each shade tells its own story, offering unique possibilities for personal expression. From the delicate pinks to the vibrant yellows and the rare Padparadscha, understanding the factors that influence a sapphire’s colour can help you select a gemstone that perfectly reflects your style and story.
Blue and Beyond: While blue is the most recognized color of sapphires, these gemstones actually come in a wide spectrum of colours due to trace elements in their mineral composition. Yellow sapphires get their hue from iron, pink sapphires from chromium, and titanium results in the iconic blue.
The Rare Padparadscha: The Padparadscha sapphire, with its unique blend of pink and orange, is among the rarest and most sought-after gemstones in the world. Its name comes from the Sinhalese word for “lotus flower,” reflecting its delicate colour reminiscent of a tropical sunset.
Colour-Changing Marvels: Some sapphires exhibit a fascinating phenomenon known as colour change, typically from blue in natural light to purple under artificial light. This rare attribute is due to varying light-absorbing properties in the gemstone’s crystal structure.
Teal Sapphires: Teal sapphires, displaying a beautiful blend of blue and green, have gained popularity for their unique colours. They are a perfect choice for those seeking a distinctive yet natural look in their jewellery.
The Star Effect: Star sapphires exhibit a captivating star-like pattern on their surface, known as asterism. This effect is caused by needle-like inclusions of rutile, which reflect light in a stunning star shape. Star sapphires come in various colours, adding an extra layer of allure to the gemstone’s natural beauty.
Sapphire origins and history
Ancient Symbolism and Protection: Sapphires have been revered since ancient times, not only for their beauty but also for their supposed protective properties. The ancient Persians believed the earth rested on a giant sapphire, and its reflection coloured the sky. Meanwhile, in medieval Europe, sapphires were worn by royalty as a symbol of wisdom and protection, believed to shield one from harm and envy.
Royal Affections: The sapphire has long been associated with royalty and romance. Perhaps the most famous sapphire in modern times is the engagement ring given by Prince Charles to Princess Diana, a stunning 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire surrounded by diamonds. This same ring was later chosen by Prince William for his proposal to Kate Middleton, cementing the sapphire’s status as a symbol of royal love.
Spiritual Significance: Throughout history, various cultures have attributed spiritual significance to sapphires. In Buddhism, the sapphire is considered a stone of devotion, bringing spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. It’s also been used in Christian ecclesiastical rings and is associated with the virtues of hope, faith, and purity.
Beyond Blue: While the deep, celestial blue is the colour most associated with sapphires, these gemstones actually come in a rainbow of hues, from pink, yellow, green, to the rare orange-pink “Padparadscha” sapphires. Each colour has its own unique properties and meanings, offering a diverse palette for personal expression and style.
A Gem of Strength: Sapphires are second only to diamonds in hardness, making them one of the most durable gemstones available. This durability, combined with their beauty, has made sapphires a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewellery meant to be worn every day, symbolizing enduring love that withstands the test of time.
The significance of the setting
The setting of your sapphire ring plays a crucial role in showcasing the gemstone’s brilliance while aligning with your aesthetic preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of a solitaire setting or the intricate beauty of a halo or vintage design, we craft each piece with precision and care, ensuring your sapphire ring is as unique as your love story.
Caring for your sapphire ring
To preserve the beauty and lustre of your sapphire ring, proper care is essential. Learn the best practices for cleaning and maintaining your sapphires, ensuring they remain a radiant symbol of your love or use our complimentary service which comes with every piece we craft.
Mindful Wear: Be mindful of when and how you wear your sapphire jewellery. Although sapphires are durable, they’re not indestructible. It’s best to remove them during physically demanding activities, such as gardening, gym or sports, to prevent accidental knocks or scratches. This cautious approach ensures your jewellery remains pristine and protected under all circumstances.
Gentle Cleaning: Maintain the sparkle of your sapphire jewellery with regular cleaning using mild soap and lukewarm water. Gently brush the stone and setting with a soft-bristled brush to remove any buildup. Steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could harm the sapphire or metal.
Regular Inspections: Ensure the longevity and security of your sapphire jewellery by having it inspected by a professional jeweller annually. Bentley De Lisle provides inspection services to check the setting and overall condition of the piece, addressing any potential issues before they escalate.
Professional Service: For a thorough rejuvenation of your sapphire jewellery, opt for professional cleaning by Bentley De Lisle. Our experts use specialised equipment and techniques to clean your sapphires safely, ensuring they remain radiant and secure in their settings without any risk of damage. All pieces made by our team come with complimentary yearly service.
Proper Storage: To prevent scratches and damage, store your sapphire jewellery separately in a fabric-lined jewellery box or individual soft pouches. This care is especially important when storing sapphires alongside harder gemstones like diamonds, which could scratch the surface of your sapphire.
Why choose Bentley De Lisle for your sapphire ring
At Bentley De Lisle, we pride ourselves on expert craftsmanship, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to ethical sourcing. Our collection of sapphire rings, designed and created on-site by our skilled team, offers unparalleled beauty and quality. From personal consultations to bespoke designs, we’re dedicated to making your experience unforgettable, guiding you to a sapphire ring that perfectly captures the essence of your bond.
Explore our exquisite collection of sapphire rings or schedule a personal consultation with our experts today. Discover the Bentley De Lisle difference, where your dream sapphire ring becomes a reality.