Teal sapphires are a fascinating variety of sapphire that showcases a unique blend of blue and green tones. The term “teal” refers to a specific shade that sits between blue and green, reminiscent of the serene colour of tropical waters. The appeal of teal sapphires lies in this captivating colour, which offers a refreshing twist on the classic sapphire blues.
AUSTRALIA
In Australia, especially in the Queensland region, sapphires are found in a stunning array of colors, including the distinctive teal hue. The country’s sapphire deposits are primarily located in alluvial gravels and are known for producing exceptionally vibrant gemstones.
Australian sapphires often exhibit intense, rich colors due to the unique geological conditions, including the presence of iron and titanium. This makes them highly valued in the gem industry. Queensland’s sapphire mines are a significant source of these gemstones, contributing to Australia’s reputation as a major player in the global gemstone market, with sapphires that are celebrated for their brilliance and variety.
SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, has been a renowned source of sapphires for over 2,000 years. Its alluvial deposits, found in riverbeds and terraces, are rich in sapphires due to the island’s unique geological conditions involving metamorphic rocks.
While Sri Lanka is famous for its blue sapphires, it also produces sapphires in various hues, including teal. This distinctive blue-green color arises from trace elements like iron and titanium. The island’s deep-rooted gem-cutting tradition and expertise continue to make Sri Lankan sapphires highly prized in the global market.
Colour: Teal sapphires are distinguished by their captivating blend of blue and green hues, sometimes interspersed with subtle hints of grey or brown. This combination creates a rich, multifaceted colour profile that adds depth and complexity to the gemstone. The vibrant teal tone offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional blue sapphire, making it a unique choice that stands out in both natural and artificial light.
Rarity: Although blue sapphires are widely recognized and popular, teal sapphires are considerably rarer. Their scarcity in the gemstone market adds an element of exclusivity, making them a coveted choice among gemstone enthusiasts and collectors. The rarity of teal sapphires enhances their appeal, offering a distinctive and less commonly seen option in the world of gemstones.
Versatility: The unique color of teal sapphires makes them exceptionally versatile for various jewelry styles. Whether set in vintage-inspired designs that highlight their classic allure or modern, minimalist settings that showcase their contemporary elegance, teal sapphires adapt beautifully. Their ability to complement a wide range of designs ensures they can be a striking centerpiece or a subtle accent in any piece of jewelry.
Affordability: Teal sapphires often come at a more accessible price point compared to their blue counterparts. This affordability allows gemstone enthusiasts to acquire a stunning and rare gemstone without the premium cost associated with traditional blue sapphires. The combination of their unique color and relative affordability makes teal sapphires an attractive option for those seeking both beauty and value in their gemstone choices.
The 4Cs is a system used to classify gemstones, which evaluates the main characteristics of a diamond but can also be adapted for sapphires, including Parti Sapphires. The 4Cs refer to Carat, Cut, Colour, and Clarity. Here’s how these criteria apply to Parti Sapphires.
Cut: The cut refers to how a sapphire has been shaped and polished. A well-executed cut maximises the stone’s brilliance and beauty. For Parti Sapphires, a precise cut is crucial to highlight the different colours within the stone. An appropriate cut enhances how the varied colours interact and are perceived under different lighting.
Colour: Parti Sapphires stand out due to the diverse colours within a single stone. Colours can range from blue to green, yellow, and sometimes other shades. The quality of a Parti Sapphire is judged on the vividness, intensity, and distribution of colours. A stone with rich and well-distributed colour is generally more valuable.
Clarity: The clarity of Parti Sapphires is assessed based on the presence of visible inclusions that could affect their appearance and value. While sapphires may contain inclusions, these are often less noticeable. Higher clarity is generally preferred as it enhances the stone’s clarity and brilliance.
Carat Weight & Size: Weight influences not only the visible size of the stone but also its value. Like all sapphires, Parti Sapphires can vary significantly in weight. Larger stones are generally more valuable, but the quality of the colour and other criteria also play an important role in determining value.
