When placed side-by-side, it can be difficult for the casual observer to tell the difference between a blue sapphire and blue diamond. How do you tell these two nearly identical stones apart?
Hardness
Diamonds are the hardest mineral, rated 10 on the Mohs Scale. Sapphires are rated 9 and the only other stone capable of scratching its surface is a diamond.
Over the course of ownership, a sapphire might require a bit more maintenance, including re-polishing and watching for chips in the stone.
At the Molecular Level
After the basic diamond-testing techniques are completed, the next step is to examine the molecular structure of each stone, which requires specialized equipment. Like all diamonds, the blue variety is made up of 100 percent carbon. However, traces of other elements in the crystal structure create the stone’s rare and distinctive blue color. A little more hydrogen gives the stone a grey-tinged shade, nitrogen creates a greenish hue and boron results in a more intense blue.
Sapphires have a completely different chemical makeup. Corundum and aluminum oxide are the primary elements, regardless of its shade. Blue sapphire can be traced back to small amounts of titanium that enter the chemical makeup. Just as with diamonds, varying percentages of titanium affect how light or dark the sapphire’s color will be.
Where You’ll Find These Stones
Geographically, blue diamonds are found in fewer locations and its rarity drives up the price. Today, naturally occurring blue diamonds can be found in Australia’s Argyle mine, South Africa’s Cullinan mine and India’s Golconda mine.
While blue diamonds can be created synthetically, certain stones may simple have a blue tint and are priced lower. Its GIA certificate will indicate if the diamond is naturally occurring or manmade.
Sapphires, including blue varieties, are mined in several locations across multiple continents. For this reason, even the less-common blue sapphire costs less than a naturally occurring blue diamond.
The Fire Effect
Diamonds have a particular brilliance or “fire” that’s found nowhere else. Hold both stones up to the light at a certain angle and a comparably cut diamond will refract more light, appearing to sparkle more.
While sapphires have the capacity to sparkle, it’s not as intense. In their natural states, this effect is particularly evident: A diamond will still have some sparkle, but a sapphire often looks cloudy until cut.
Whether you’re shopping for sapphire or diamond jewelry, browse our selection of bracelets, rings and necklaces at Hannoush Jewelers. Visit one of our convenient CT locations today!
The post Differences Between Blue Diamonds & Sapphires appeared first on Hannoush Jewelers CT.