Corundum: the collective name for ruby and sapphire
When I say I like working with corundum, I often see a frown appear. As soon as I add that ruby is the red variety and sapphire the blue, a smile and an “aaah, okay!” usually follows. In fact, corundum is the mineral group, and ruby and sapphire are simply the names for the best-known colors within this group.
In short, ruby is always red, while sapphire is often known as the blue variant of corundum. But sapphire exists in many more colors: from yellow and pink to green and purple. All those colors together are called fancy sapphire. With that, sapphire is much more versatile than most people think.
Fancy sapphires – the colorful side of corundum
Many people still think that sapphires are only blue, but nothing could be further from the truth. Besides blue, there are also the so-called fancy sapphires: the collective name for sapphires of all other colors.
That variety is huge: yellow, orange, pink, violet, green and purple. There are even bi-colored or parti-colored sapphires that combine multiple shades in one stone. And sometimes you will find one that changes color – blue in daylight, purple in artificial light. That remains a small miracle of nature.
It is precisely this versatility that makes sapphire such a fine gemstone for me to work with. It is not only one of the hardest gems, but also one of the most surprising.
Ceylon sapphires – airy, bright and sparkling
One of my favorites is the Ceylon sapphire from Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon). These sapphires have a lighter, brighter blue hue than the classic dark blue varieties you often see at jewelers.
Why I like them better?
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They are open, sparkling and airy, rather than dark and heavy.
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The color sometimes resembles a summer sky just after a rain – fresh, bright and full of life.
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They pair fantastically with gold and with other gemstones.
In short, they have something refreshing, as if you are looking at a stone that breathes.
The legend of the blue sapphire
In Sri Lanka, it has been told for centuries that the blue sapphire has magical powers. According to an ancient legend, the first sapphire is said to have been created from a drop of moonlight that fell to earth. The stone is said to offer protection and ward off evil.
For centuries, kings and spiritual leaders wore sapphires, believing that the stone brought wisdom, clarity and protection. And whether you believe in those stories or not – there is something special about the appearance of a blue sapphire.
Teal sapphires – an ocean captured in a stone
Then there are the teal sapphires, perhaps the most intriguing to me.
Their color balances exactly between blue and green and changes with the light. Sometimes they look deep blue, other times emerald green, and often there is an enchanting mix in between.
They are mostly from Madagascar and Australia and you don’t often see them in jewellery yet. That is precisely what makes them so exciting to work with. To me, a teal sapphire feels like wearing a piece of ocean or a Scandinavian fjord on your finger – always in motion, never the same.
Why I choose fancy sapphire
Ruby and classic dark blue sapphire have earned their place: timeless, iconic, beloved. But my heart beats faster for the variations that are just a little different.
Ceylon sapphires with their fresh blue, teal sapphires with their ocean-colored glow or a sunny yellow sapphire that literally radiates light – they are gemstones that give a design that little bit extra.
Those curious about jewellery in which sapphire plays a starring role will find several designs within my Elevance collection in which this gemstone shines.
Corundum: strong and versatile
In addition to its color brilliance, corundum is rock solid.
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Corundum scores a 9 on the Mohs scale – just below diamond (10).
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This makes these gemstones extremely resistant to scratches and wear.
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So perfect for jewellery that is worn daily, such as rings and bracelets.
Corundum: a treasure chest full of possibilities
That’s exactly why I love working with corundum: it offers endless choices.
Classic and stylish? Choose a dark blue sapphire.
Playful and surprising? Go for a teal sapphire.
Something special? Consider a yellow sapphire as in this Elevance ring and literally carry the sun with you.
Corundum may be an unfamiliar name to many, but to me it is a source of color, inspiration and stories – much more than just ruby red or classic blue.
Discovering what is possible
Are you curious about these special gemstones? In my studio you will find a beautiful selection of colorful sapphires. You are welcome to come and admire them in real life. Simply make an appointment through my contact page.
Love,
Sarah
