Sapphires are among the most beautiful and valuable gemstones in the world. While most people think of sapphires as blue, they actually come in many colors, including pink, yellow, green, and even purple. But what is a purple sapphire called?
In this article, we will explore the name of a purple sapphire, how it gets its color, where it is found, how it is graded and valued, how it compares to other purple gemstones, and how to care for a purple sapphire. By the end, you will know everything about this stunning gemstone.
What Is a Purple Sapphire Called?
A purple sapphire is simply called a “purple sapphire.” Unlike some other colored sapphires (such as padparadscha for pink-orange sapphires), purple sapphires do not have a special trade name.
However, some jewelers may use terms like “violet sapphire” if the stone has a bluish-purple hue, “plum sapphire” if the color is deep and rich, or “lavender sapphire” if the shade is light and soft. But in the gemstone industry, all of these are still classified as purple sapphires.
How Does a Purple Sapphire Get Its Color?
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide). Pure corundum is colorless, but when trace elements mix with it, different colors appear.
For purple sapphires, the color comes from vanadium, which is the main element that creates purple hues. Small amounts of chromium and iron can shift the color toward pink or violet.
The exact shade depends on the concentration of these elements, the lighting (natural vs. artificial), and the cut of the gemstone.
Color Variations in Purple Sapphires
Purple sapphires can range from light lavender (soft, pastel purple) to medium violet (balanced purple) to deep plum (dark, rich purple) and even reddish-purple (close to magenta). The most valuable shades are usually vivid and medium-toned, not too light or too dark.
Where Are Purple Sapphires Found?
Purple sapphires are rarer than blue sapphires but can be found in several locations worldwide.
Sri Lanka, also known as Ceylon, is known for high-quality sapphires, including purple ones that often have a lighter, more pastel tone.
Madagascar is a major source of sapphires today and produces vivid violet and plum-colored stones.
Tanzania yields some purple sapphires from the Tunduru region, often with a reddish-purple tint.
Australia produces darker purple sapphires, sometimes with greenish undertones.
Montana in the United States occasionally yields rare lavender and violet sapphires.
How Are Purple Sapphires Graded and Valued?
Like all gemstones, purple sapphires are judged based on several factors.
Color is the most important factor. Pure purple is most valuable, but some prefer violet or reddish-purple. Strong, vibrant colors are best, and medium tones (not too light or too dark) are ideal.
Clarity is another consideration. Most sapphires have some inclusions (internal flaws), but eye-clean stones with no visible flaws are more valuable.
The cut of the gemstone affects its beauty. A good cut enhances color and sparkle, with common shapes including oval, round, cushion, and emerald.
Carat weight also plays a role. Larger purple sapphires are rare and more expensive, with prices rising significantly after two to three carats.
Treatments are common in sapphires. Many are heat-treated to improve color, but untreated, natural purple sapphires are the most valuable.
Purple Sapphire vs. Other Purple Gemstones
Purple sapphires are not the only purple gemstones available. Here’s how they compare to other popular purple gems.
Amethyst is a more affordable purple gemstone but is softer than sapphire, ranking seven on the Mohs scale compared to sapphire’s nine.
Tanzanite has a beautiful violet-blue to purple color but is less durable than sapphire, making it more prone to scratches.
Purple spinel is another option, offering bright purple to reddish-purple hues with good hardness, though it is rarer and can be expensive.
Purple garnet, specifically rhodolite, has a pinkish-purple tone and is moderately priced but not as durable as sapphire.
Why choose a purple sapphire over these alternatives? Purple sapphires offer superior durability, rarity, and brilliance, making them an excellent choice for fine jewelry that lasts.
How to Buy a Purple Sapphire
If you want to purchase a purple sapphire, follow these tips to ensure you get a high-quality stone.
First, check the color. Look for a vivid, even color without dullness, and view the stone under different lighting conditions to see how it appears in natural, LED, and fluorescent light.
Next, examine clarity. Avoid stones with visible cracks or black spots, though minor inclusions are acceptable if they don’t affect the gem’s beauty.
Ask about treatments. Heat-treated sapphires are common and stable, but avoid diffusion-treated stones where the color is only surface-deep.
Choose a reputable seller. Buy from certified jewelers or reputable dealers and request a gemstone lab report for expensive stones to verify quality.
Consider the setting. White gold or platinum enhances cool-toned purple sapphires, while rose gold complements reddish-purple stones.
How to Care for a Purple Sapphire
Sapphires are durable, but they still need proper care to maintain their beauty.
Clean your purple sapphire with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the stone.
Store it in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratches from other jewelry.
Remove your sapphire jewelry during heavy work, sports, or swimming to avoid accidental damage.
Conclusion
A purple sapphire is a rare and stunning gemstone, simply called a “purple sapphire.” It gets its color from trace elements like vanadium and chromium, with shades ranging from light lavender to deep plum. Found in places like Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Tanzania, these gems are valued for their color, clarity, and durability.
When buying one, focus on color, clarity, and certification. While other purple gemstones like amethyst and tanzanite are available, purple sapphires offer unmatched brilliance and longevity.
Whether set in an engagement ring, pendant, or earrings, a purple sapphire is a luxurious and timeless choice. With proper care, it can last for generations, making it a perfect heirloom piece.
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