Sapphire Beads

Sapphire beads, as well as emeralds, rubies, and diamonds, are the gemstones that have traditionally been termed "precious." The terms "precious" and "semi-precious," while still used, are outdated due to the fact that other gemstones that should be considered precious, such as tanzanite, are not included in the list.

The mineral name for sapphire is corundum. Corundums come in all colors of the rainbow, and all but the red ones (rubies) are called sapphires. However, sapphires can be assumed to be blue unless stated otherwise. The most valuable sapphires are a rich cornflower blue, but great value is also attributed to other colors. An example of this is the sought after pinkish orange sapphire called padparadscha. Also, white sapphires are sometimes used as diamond substitutes. Corundums are especially desirable for jewelry making, due to their hardness (exceeded only by diamonds) as well as their clarity and color.

Inclusions are what give sapphires their velvety quality. These inclusions, when numerous, can make the stone translucent or opaque and, if oriented properly, will allow light to reflect in the form of a star and are called "star sapphires." Star sapphires are cut into cabochons. Stars are not visible in faceted gems.

Significant sources of sapphires are Thailand, Myanmar (Burma), Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Austrailia, Africa, and the United States.

Sapphire is the birthstone for September. In Western cultures, it is the stone associated with the 15th wedding anniversary. Ancient belief was that sapphires would protect from harm and envy.

Sapphire beads are generally a lower quality stone than what is found in calibrated cut sapphire gems. Nevertheless, they make a fine addition to one's jewelry supplies.

common treatments: heat treated

special care: avoid impact, harsh chemicals (especially Borax), high heat

hardness: 9