QA about green sapphires

What is a green sapphire gemstone?

A green sapphire is a rare and valuable variety of the mineral corundum, which also includes ruby and blue sapphire. Green sapphire displays a rich green color, ranging from light minty greens to deep forest greens. Natural green sapphires are extremely rare, accounting for less than 1% of all sapphires mined worldwide. Most green sapphires on the market have been heat treated to enhance their color saturation. Completely natural untreated green sapphires are highly coveted and can fetch very high prices. Fine greens over 5 carats can be valued at over $10,000 per carat. Green sapphires belong to the corundum family, with a Mohs hardness of 9, making them extremely durable gems. Their beauty, rarity, and durability make them prized collector’s stones.

What makes a green sapphire gemstone so valuable?

The extreme rarity of natural green sapphires is what gives them such high value. They make up less than 1% of all corundum mined worldwide, far less than common blue sapphire. Their scarcity, combined with their stunning green colors and durability, make them precious and desirable gems. Green sapphires are considered on par with rubies and emeralds in terms of preciousness. Their value also comes from being completely natural – untreated green sapphires are the most prized. The difficulty of finding top grade greens in nature adds to their worth. Fine large green sapphires are almost never found, escalating prices for stones over 3 carats dramatically. Green sapphires also have prestige as the traditional birthstone for May. Their uniqueness and collectible status contributes to their high monetary value.

How much do green sapphire gemstones cost per carat?

Green sapphires typically range from $800 to $5,000 per carat depending on the individual gem’s characteristics. Factors like the saturation of the color, clarity, geographic source, treatment, and carat weight all impact price. For example, a highly saturated 2 carat stone could cost up to $5,000 per carat while a lighter 1 carat stone may be only $1,500 per carat. Untreated natural stones with vivid color can reach over $10,000 per carat, especially at sizes over 5 carats. Quality and rarity drive the enormous variation in green sapphire pricing per carat. An appraisal by a gemologist is required to properly evaluate an individual stone’s full worth.

What is the spiritual meaning of green sapphire gemstones?

Green sapphires are believed to have a number of metaphysical and spiritual meanings tied to their verdant color. Green is associated with nature, renewal, life energy, growth, and fertility in many cultures. Green sapphire specifically represents youthfulness, harmony, and hope. It is thought to stimulate creativity and balance emotions, soothing anger and bringing wisdom and empathy. The vivid green is energizing yet calming. Green sapphire is also said to resolve tensions, activate the heart chakra, and open the mind to receive insights and inspiration. Some feel dreaming with a green sapphire can bring prophetic visions. The stone’s connection to nature gives it grounding, healing energy.

Which country produces the best quality green sapphire gemstones?

The nation producing the finest quality green sapphires is Tanzania in Africa. In particular, the Umba River valley deposits in eastern Tanzania yield top grade green sapphires praised for their intense vivid green hues and high clarity. Sapphire mining is a major industry in this region, and approximately 90% of the world’s fine green sapphires originate from Tanzania. Other sources like Sri Lanka, Australia, and Kenya produce some beautiful greens too, but the Umba green sapphires are unmatched in their vivid color saturation. Tanzanian greens also tend to have fewer inclusions and superior cutting compared to material from other deposits.

How can you tell if a green sapphire gemstone is real or fake?

To determine if a green sapphire is real, it should be examined by a qualified gemologist, preferably one affiliated with a major gemological lab like GIA or AGS. They have specialized equipment and expertise to separate natural from synthetic stones. Signs to look for are imperfections like small crystals and fingerprints visible under magnification, which indicate natural origin. Synthetics often have gas bubbles, curved striations, and silk-like fibrous inclusions. Advanced testing checks for proper spectroscopy, refractive index, hardness, and other properties that must fall in the correct ranges for genuine sapphire. Documentation from a respected gem lab guaranteeing authenticity is essential.

Should I buy a green sapphire gemstone online or in a jewelry store?

Thanks to independent gemological certification, shopping for a green sapphire online can give access to a much wider selection of stones from dealers globally compared to a single local jeweler. As long as the online seller provides documents like a GIA or AGS report, you can be confident of getting a natural, unenhanced sapphire. Seeing a stone in person allows closer inspection but is not critical for a transparent gem. For the best price and selection, buying certified online is optimal, but jewelers can also source nice green sapphires through their supply networks. Do some research to find the most reputable options.

How much does a 1 carat green sapphire gemstone cost on average?

The typical per carat price for a 1 carat green sapphire of decent but not exceptional quality averages $1,500 – $2,500. This assumes a commercial quality stone that is eye clean with a medium green tone. For high clarity, vivid greens, 1 carat prices jump up to the range of $3,000 – $5,000 per carat. Flawless natural stones could be over $5,000 per carat even at 1 carat sizes. Lower quality stones with visible imperfections can cost under $1,000 per carat. Origin, treatment, and color are big factors influencing 1 carat prices. An appraisal considers the individual gem’s characteristics.

Should green sapphire gemstones be set in white gold or yellow gold?

Green sapphires pair beautifully with both white and yellow metals. White gold and platinum allow the vibrant green hue to stand out, while yellow brings out the stone’s warmer secondary tones. Rose gold also complements green sapphire nicely. The choice comes down to personal preference. For an added sparkle effect, surrounding the green sapphire with white diamonds works well. A bezel setting in yellow gold or halo setting in white gold are both excellent options that let the stone take center stage.

What jewelry looks best with a green sapphire gemstone?

Thanks to its stunning color and excellent durability, green sapphire suits all types of fine jewelry. For rings, green sapphire makes exceptional engagement rings and right hand rings. Pendants show off the stone’s brilliance well, necklaces too. Green sapphire earrings, bracelets, and cufflinks also impress. Large cabochon green sapphires work nicely in brooches or statement rings. Vivid medium greens are ideal for most jewelry purposes. Staying with classic styles allows green sapphire to shine as the focal point.

Here are the next 10 detailed answers to high search volume questions about “green sapphire gemstone”:

How durable are green sapphire gemstones compared to other colored stones?

Green sapphire is one of the most durable colored gemstones available. With a Mohs hardness of 9 out of 10, it is harder than popular gems like emeralds, rubies, and tanzanite which have ratings around 7-8. Green sapphire’s hardness makes it very resistant to chipping, scratching, and fractures compared to softer stones. It can be worn every day without concern and maintain its beauty for many decades. Only diamonds compare in toughness. Green sapphire’s durability exceeds other green gem choices like peridot and tourmaline too. This excellent durability contributes to green sapphire’s value as jewelry.

What shapes and cuts are common for green sapphire gemstones?

Well-cut green sapphires maximize sparkle and light return. Oval and emerald cut stones showcase the verdant color well. Round brilliant stones offer exceptional brilliance. Cushion and pear shaped greens have a beautiful symmetry. The depth of color is highlighted nicely in a heart shaped green sapphire. Marquise and princess cuts add flair. Santos rectangular cuts or trillion shapes provide different looks. Avoid stones with poor cutting symmetry, which reduces beauty. Most shapes flatter green sapphire aside from very shallow cuts.

What clarity grading scale is used for green sapphire gemstones?

Green sapphires are graded on the same clarity scale used for diamonds. Stones are judged face-up, with the following ratings from best to worst clarity: Flawless (FL), Internally Flawless (IF), VVS1/VVS2 (very very slightly included), VS1/VS2 (very slightly included), SI1/SI2 (slightly included), and I1-3 (imperfect). Pinpoint inclusions are best versus large dark crystals or cracks. At least SI clarity is recommended, but many opt for eye clean VS or VVS for impact.

Should I buy a loose green sapphire gemstone or look for it set in jewelry?

This decision often comes down to budget factors. Pre-set green sapphires in finished jewelry typically cost 40-50% more than buying a comparable loose stone. The ability to shop loose stones from many vendors allows price comparison. If having a ring or other item custom made, buying loose first is best. But for a simpler buying process, jewelry stores sell pre-mounted green sapphires. Ensure any stone you select, loose or set, has been certified by a lab like GIA for quality assurance.

What is beryllium treatment and diffusion treatment for green sapphire gemstones?

Beryllium and diffusion treatments are methods of artificially enhancing the color and clarity of lower quality green sapphires. The treatments can make off-color pale or unevenly colored stones into vivid greens that appear higher end. Always opt for untreated natural greens, which are rare and pricier, or disclosed treated stones where the enhancement is disclosed. Diffusion treatment should always be detectable if a lab report is provided. Know exactly what you are purchasing.

How can you tell if a green sapphire gemstone has been treated or enhanced?

To identify treatment in a green sapphire, a gemological lab report from GIA or AGS stating “no indications of treatment” provides assurance that the stone is natural and unenhanced. Reputable sellers will have such documentation. Without lab analysis, it can be very difficult to determine if a green sapphire has been treated, especially with newer high-tech diffusion processes. Advanced lab testing using spectroscopy and microscopy is required to detect telltale signs of treatments like beryllium or heat enhancement.

What makes green sapphire gemstones so rare compared to other colors like blue?

Only a tiny fraction of the corundum mined worldwide displays pure green hues – well under 1% of all sapphire rough. Trace elements like iron within the mineral must be present in just the right concentrations to inhibit all colors except green light. The precise blend needed for green is very uncommon, making green corundum extremely scarce compared to readily available blue corundum which lacks those trace elements. Additionally, large clean greens over 2 carats are virtually never seen, further adding to their rarity. Green sapphire’s exclusivity adds greatly to its value.

How can you tell the geographic source/origin of a green sapphire gemstone?

Determining a green sapphire’s geographic origin requires advanced laboratory testing by gemologists. Properties like trace element chemistry, spectroscopic readings, microscopic inclusions, and color zoning patterns can provide clues about the mine source if data matches known profiles from different deposits. For example, vanadium and chromium trace elements can indicate African or Sri Lankan origin. This level of testing is not performed by all labs, so it’s not guaranteed, but can sometimes provide insights into where a stone was mined.

What is the largest known green sapphire gemstone?

The largest known green sapphire is the Transvaal Green Sapphire found in South Africa in 1938. This historic stone weighs an impressive 755 carats – over 5 ounces! The raw stone was a clefted hexagonal crystal, very rare for sapphires which normally form bar-shaped crystals. The Transvaal Green Sapphire resides at the Natural History Museum in London. Green sapphires over 50 carats are extremely uncommon, making this legendary stone remarkable.

Are there any famous green sapphire gemstones?

Some renowned examples of exceptional green sapphires include:

• The 19 carat Art Deco Green Sapphire Brooch by Cartier, set with step cut Burmese stones
• A dangling 35 carat cabochon green sapphire mined in Kenya, owned by designer Irene Neuwirth
• The Empress Eugénie Blue-Green Sapphire, a 31 carat matching set owned by Napoleon III’s wife
• A 24 carat oval green sapphire engagement ring Kim Kardashian received from Kanye West

While blue is more famous, these named green sapphires illustrate the grand size and beauty possible. Provenance and history add to their status as prized gems.

Here are the final 10 detailed answers to complete the 30 question QA list on “green sapphire gemstones”:

What makes an emerald cut ideal for green sapphire gemstones?

The elongated rectangular emerald cut maximizes the color of green sapphire stones by offering a large window to view the vivid green hue. The cut’s long lines create a sophisticated look that suits the high value of natural green sapphires. The step-cut facets accentuate the sharpness of the green color rather than dispersing it into rainbow sparkle. An emerald cut framed by tapered baguettes makes a distinctive statement with green sapphire as an engagement ring centerpiece.

Do green sapphire gemstone prices vary by geographic source?

Yes, the source location significantly impacts the value of green sapphires. Stones from renowned sources like Kashmir, Myanmar, and Ceylon (Sri Lanka) fetch much higher prices than generic commercial stones even if color and clarity stats are comparable. For example, a 3 carat stone from Kashmir could cost over $20,000 per carat while one from China may be only $2,000 for similar visual quality. Provenance matters, especially for high end collectors’ pieces.

What is the care and cleaning procedure for green sapphire gemstone jewelry?

Green sapphires are highly durable but regular proper cleaning maintains their brilliance. Use a gentle jewelry cleaner or mild soap with warm water and a soft brush to remove dirt and oils that can dull the stone. Ultrasonic cleaning is safe if the setting allows it. Avoid exposing sapphires to chemicals like bleach or acid which can erode the surface. Take care to prevent hard knocks or blows that could chip the stone.

How do I choose between VS and SI clarity grades when buying a green sapphire gemstone?

VS clarity will have minor inclusions visible under 10x magnification while SI may show some under a loupe. VS offers near eye-clean stones for important jewelry. But SI provides an excellent balance of beauty and affordability for green sapphires, especially for sizes under 2 carats where inclusions are difficult to see. Evaluate options in your price range in person when possible. Ideal cut can also minimize the appearance of inclusions.

What is the best lighting for displaying the color of a green sapphire gemstone?

Natural daylight brings out the most accurate representation of a green sapphire’s hue. Indirect northern exposure works well. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can appear too dark. Incandescent bulbs add warmth that diminishes the green. LED lighting provides a crisp neutral light that showcases green sapphires effectively. Back-lighting, like near a window, illuminates the transparency beautifully. Proper lighting always enhances the color.

What is a parti-color green sapphire gemstone?

A parti-color sapphire exhibits more than one color in a single stone. For green sapphire, this may show as sections of blue and green, yellow and green, or color zoning with green concentrated near the top. Parti colors reflect natural mineral variations during formation. While considered undesirable in many gems, these color mixes are prized in sapphire for their uniqueness. However, solid unblended greens still offer premium value for their purity.

How can you tell if a green sapphire gemstone is eye clean?

Eye clean means a stone has no visible inclusions to the unaided eye. To check, examine the sapphire from a comfortable distance in good lighting, without magnification. Tilt and rotate the stone to test all angles. A loupe can be used to inspect the sapphire more closely – if no dark crystals or marks are seen with 10x magnification, it can qualify as eye clean. Clarity grading reports will state eye clean status when applicable.

What is the meaning of a green sapphire gemstone in a Victorian era brooch?

In Victorian jewelry, the use of green sapphires carried special significance about the wearer. Green was a color associated with love and romance. Sapphires also meant dignity and wisdom. Together, green sapphires in ornate brooches signaled that the wearer was a woman of great integrity who could offer sage romantic counsel. Green also referenced life, growth and hope for the future.

Why are Maldivian green sapphire gemstones so rare and expensive?

Few locations rival the quality of green sapphires found in the island nation of Maldives. Its remote and tiny sapphire mines produce extraordinarily vibrant and saturated greens. This superior color commands prices many times that of commercial quality stones. Additionally, the extremely limited volume of production, difficulties in mining, and obstacles in trade due to the region’s isolation all restrict availability, making Maldivian greens up to 1000% pricier than comparable gems.

What kind of polish should a quality green sapphire gemstone have?

A well-cut green sapphire will exhibit excellent polish that maximizes its brilliance. It should not appear hazy or show significant surface graining under magnification. Precision faceting adds to the depth of color. Minor polishing defects can sometimes occur naturally and do not affect durability. With proper microscope inspection, any concerning polish issues that might compromise beauty or structural integrity can be detected.