by Andrew W John
Truly spectacular to see, yellow sapphires are one of the rarer members of the sapphire family tree. Like all other sapphires, yellow specimens are crystallized aluminum oxide. The yellow coloring comes from the presence of iron in the crystal in addition to aluminum oxide. They are uncommon enough that until recently years, many were unaware that yellow sapphires even existed!
Sapphires are very hard stones, registering a 9 on the Mohs scale, and second only to the diamond in hardness. This makes the yellow sapphire not only a unique stone, but a very durable stone that can take everyday wear and retain its brilliance. As yellow sapphires increase in popularity, it is easier to find them in rings, pendants and earrings.
Yellow sapphires are mined in eastern Africa (Tanzania), and on the isles of Madagascar and Sri Lanka. Synthetic sapphires are becoming more and more common nowadays because of the rising popularity of these gems and their relative rarity in mines. Synthetic sapphires are no less a “true†sapphire than those mined, and have all of the luster and properties of those from underground, but are a bit cheaper.
Like any gemstone, price is dependent on a few factors: color, size and clarity, with cut also being important in pricing. A perfectly cut gem will still sparkle in artificial indoor lighting, which is one sign of a truly expert gem cutter. Stones which have been mined as opposed to made (a la synthetic gems), are higher in price. Natural untreated stones are also more expensive than stones which have been heat treated for purposes of coloring.
Reputedly, yellow sapphires will bring people together and create friendships. Other properties are said to include sharpening the mind, bringing luck in business and improving depression. In folk medicine traditions, the lungs and liver are said to benefit. There are also traditions bearing on where a yellow sapphire ring should be worn, though this is generally disregarded these days.
Many people find the sunny color of this gemstone lends an air of elegance to jewelry. It doesn’t matter if it is mounted in gold or silver the regal sight of a yellow gem makes one think of royalty. Yellow sapphires are no different. Yellow sapphire rings especially catch the eye as they sparkle with each movement of the hand. If you’re looking for a very special, unique engagement ring, a yellow sapphire may be the perfect choice. It is a stone that you don’t see very often, and should garner compliments everywhere you go.
If you don’t have a yellow sapphire in your jewelry collection, you may want to consider this beautiful gem.
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Interested in a special and unique piece of jewelry, consider
yellow sapphire rings. These are truly spectacular gemstone beauties that will make all your friends jealous.