Parti sapphires are unique and beautiful gemstones known for their striking color zoning. Unlike traditional sapphires, which display a single dominant color, parti sapphires show two or more distinct colors in one stone. These colors can include combinations of blue, green, yellow, and even pink.
Because of their rarity and stunning appearance, parti sapphires are highly sought after by gem collectors and jewelry lovers. But where are these special sapphires found? This article will explore the key locations where parti sapphires are mined, their geological formation, and what makes each source unique.
What Are Parti Sapphires?
Before discussing where parti sapphires are found, it’s important to understand what makes them different from regular sapphires.
Color Zoning: Parti sapphires display multiple colors in a single stone due to changes in trace elements during their formation.
Common Color Combinations: Blue & yellow, green & yellow, blue & green, and sometimes pink or purple hues.
Cause of Colors: The presence of iron (Fe) and titanium (Ti) creates blue, while vanadium (V) and iron (Fe) produce green and yellow tones.
Now, let’s explore the main sources of parti sapphires around the world.
Australia – The Leading Source of Parti Sapphires
Australia is the most famous and significant source of parti sapphires, especially from Queensland and New South Wales.
Key Mining Locations in Australia
Queensland (Anakie Fields & Lava Plains)
Anakie Fields: One of the most productive sapphire mining areas in Australia.
- Produces sapphires with strong blue-yellow and green-yellow zoning.
- Many Australian parti sapphires used in jewelry come from here.
Lava Plains: A newer mining area known for vibrant green-blue parti sapphires.
New South Wales (Inverell & Glen Innes)
- Inverell: Famous for high-quality sapphires, including parti colors.
- Glen Innes: Another important source, producing stones with bright yellow and green hues.
Why Are Australian Parti Sapphires Special?
- They often have strong, well-defined color zoning.
- The yellow-green and blue-yellow combinations are highly prized.
- Australian sapphires are generally untreated, meaning their colors are natural.
Madagascar – A Rising Source of Parti Sapphires
Madagascar has become a major supplier of sapphires in recent years, including parti-colored stones.
Key Mining Areas in Madagascar
- Ilakaka: A well-known gemstone mining region with many parti sapphires.
- Andranondambo: Produces sapphires with blue-green and yellow-green zoning.
Characteristics of Madagascan Parti Sapphires
- Often show a mix of blue, green, and yellow.
- Some stones have a “teal” appearance, blending blue and green beautifully.
- Generally more affordable than Australian parti sapphires.
Nigeria – A Lesser-Known but Important Source
Nigeria has emerged as a producer of unique parti sapphires, particularly in the Mambilla Plateau region.
Features of Nigerian Parti Sapphires
- Often display bright yellow and green colors.
- Some stones have a rare pinkish hue mixed with green or blue.
- Nigerian sapphires are gaining popularity due to their vibrant colors.
Tanzania – A Source of Rare and Vivid Parti Sapphires
Tanzania is famous for its gemstones, including tanzanite and sapphires. Some Tanzanian sapphires exhibit parti-coloration.
Key Mining Locations
- Tunduru: Known for multicolored sapphires, including parti varieties.
- Umba Valley: Produces sapphires with unique color blends.
What Makes Tanzanian Parti Sapphires Unique?
- Some stones have a rare purple-pink tint along with blue or green.
- The color zoning can be very dramatic, making them highly collectible.
Sri Lanka (Ceylon) – A Traditional Source with Some Parti Sapphires
Sri Lanka is famous for its blue and fancy-colored sapphires, but some parti sapphires are also found here.
Characteristics of Sri Lankan Parti Sapphires
- Usually softer color zoning compared to Australian stones.
- Common combinations include light blue and yellow or pale green and yellow.
- Often cut into cabochons to enhance their color play.
Montana, USA – A Small but Notable Source
Montana in the United States is known for its sapphires, including some parti-colored stones.
Key Mining Areas in Montana
- Rock Creek: Produces sapphires with blue and green zoning.
- Yogo Gulch: Mostly known for cornflower blue sapphires, but occasional parti stones are found.
Why Are Montana Parti Sapphires Special?
- They are ethically mined in the U.S., making them a sustainable choice.
- The colors are often subtle but very attractive.
Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos – Secondary Sources
While not major producers, these countries occasionally yield parti sapphires.
Features of Southeast Asian Parti Sapphires
- Often heat-treated to enhance colors.
- Some stones from Cambodia show strong green and yellow zoning.
How Are Parti Sapphires Formed?
Understanding where parti sapphires are found also involves knowing how they form.
- Geological Process: Sapphires form in metamorphic or igneous rocks.
- Color Changes: Variations in trace elements (iron, titanium, vanadium) during crystal growth create color zones.
- Mining Methods: Most parti sapphires are found in alluvial deposits (riverbeds and gravels).
Why Are Some Locations Better for Parti Sapphires?
Certain regions produce more parti sapphires due to:
- Unique Geological Conditions: Changes in mineral content during formation.
- Volcanic Activity: Many sapphire deposits are linked to ancient volcanic events.
- Climate & Erosion: Rivers and weathering expose sapphire-bearing rocks.
Conclusion
Parti sapphires are found in several locations worldwide, but the best-known sources are:
- Australia (Queensland & New South Wales) – The top producer with vibrant color zoning.
- Madagascar – A growing source of beautiful blue-green and yellow-green stones.
- Nigeria – Offers bright yellow and green parti sapphires.
- Tanzania – Rare and multicolored stones with unique zoning.
- Sri Lanka – Traditional source with softer parti colors.
- Montana, USA – Ethically mined sapphires with subtle zoning.
Each location produces parti sapphires with distinct characteristics, making them special for collectors and jewelry designers.
If you’re looking for a unique and eye-catching gemstone, parti sapphires are an excellent choice. Their striking color combinations and rarity make them stand out in any piece of jewelry. Whether you prefer the bold Australian stones or the softer hues from Sri Lanka, there’s a parti sapphire for every taste.
Related Topics:
- What Are White and Yellow Sapphires?
- Are Star Sapphires Expensive? What You Should Know
- How Old Are Natural Sapphires?
