Sapphires are among the most prized gemstones in the world. Among them, the cornflower blue Ceylon sapphire stands out for its exceptional color and rarity. This gemstone is highly sought after by collectors, jewelers, and gem enthusiasts.
In this article, we will explore what makes cornflower Ceylon sapphires special, their origin and mining, how they are graded and valued, the difference between natural and treated sapphires, how to care for these precious stones, and famous cornflower sapphires in history.
By the end, you will understand why this gem is so valuable and how to identify a true cornflower Ceylon sapphire.
What is a Cornflower Ceylon Sapphire?
A cornflower blue sapphire is a variety of corundum with a distinct soft, velvety blue color. The name comes from the cornflower, a wildflower with a similar hue.
The finest cornflower sapphires have a balanced hue that is not too dark nor too light, with a slight violet or purple secondary tone that gives it a velvety look. They also possess strong brilliance due to excellent cutting.
The term “Ceylon sapphire” refers to sapphires mined in Sri Lanka, known for their superior quality and brilliance.
Why is the Cornflower Color So Special?
The cornflower blue shade is often considered the most elegant and wearable among blue sapphires. Unlike deep royal blue sapphires which can appear almost black in certain lights, or pale blue sapphires which lack intensity, the cornflower blue strikes a perfect balance.
What sets it apart is its soft violet undertone that creates a luminous, velvety appearance. This subtle secondary hue gives the stone depth and character without overpowering the primary blue color.
Origin: Sri Lanka – The Sapphire Island
Sri Lanka has been a top source of sapphires for over two thousand years. The island’s gem-rich soil produces sapphires with unmatched brilliance.
Most sapphires come from Ratnapura, known as the “City of Gems.” Traditional mining methods are still used today, with miners hand-digging and panning in rivers. Unlike some African or Australian sapphires, Ceylon stones are renowned for their natural, untreated beauty straight from the earth.
The geology of Sri Lanka creates ideal conditions for forming high-quality corundum. The stones develop slowly over millions of years, resulting in excellent crystal structure and clarity.
How Are Cornflower Sapphires Graded?
Gemologists evaluate sapphires based on several key factors, with color being the most important for cornflower blue specimens.
The ideal cornflower hue shows a dominant blue with slight violet, in a medium tone that isn’t too dark or light. The saturation should be rich and vivid without any grayness.
Clarity is another crucial factor. Eye-clean stones with no visible inclusions command the highest prices. However, some sapphires contain fine needle-like rutile inclusions called silk, which can actually enhance value if they create a soft glow called asterism.
Cut quality dramatically affects the stone’s beauty. Oval, cushion, and round cuts typically maximize brilliance. A poorly cut sapphire can appear dull even with excellent color.
Carat weight significantly impacts value. Large cornflower sapphires over five carats are extremely rare, with prices increasing exponentially with size.
Natural vs. Treated Cornflower Sapphires
Natural, untreated sapphires are the most valuable. These stones come straight from the earth with no enhancement to their color or clarity. They often have a softer, more natural glow compared to treated stones.
Heat treatment is common in the sapphire market, with about ninety percent of stones undergoing this process. Heating can improve both color and clarity. While still beautiful, heat-treated sapphires are less rare than natural ones.
To determine if a sapphire has been treated, lab reports from reputable institutions like GIA, AGL, or SSEF are essential. Microscopic examination can also reveal telltale signs of heat treatment, such as altered inclusions.
Always request a certificate when purchasing a high-value sapphire. This documentation provides crucial information about the stone’s origins and any treatments it may have received.
The Value of Cornflower Ceylon Sapphires
Cornflower Ceylon sapphires span a wide price range depending on quality. Commercial grade stones that have been treated and contain visible inclusions might range from five hundred to two thousand dollars per carat.
Good quality natural stones with light inclusions typically fall between two thousand and eight thousand dollars per carat. Fine quality natural sapphires that are eye-clean with top color can command eight thousand to twenty thousand dollars per carat.
Exceptional specimens – large, completely natural stones with no treatment – represent the pinnacle of value. These rare gems can fetch twenty thousand to over one hundred thousand dollars per carat.
Interestingly, a five-carat natural cornflower sapphire often costs more than a ten-carat heat-treated stone, demonstrating how much premium is placed on natural origin and quality.
Caring for Your Cornflower Sapphire
Proper care ensures your sapphire remains beautiful for generations. Cleaning is straightforward – use warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding harsh chemicals that might damage the stone or any accompanying metals.
When not being worn, store your sapphire in a separate pouch or compartment to prevent scratches from other jewelry. While sapphires rank nine on the Mohs hardness scale (second only to diamonds), they can still chip if subjected to hard impacts.
Avoid exposing your sapphire to sudden temperature changes, which could cause fractures. Remove your jewelry before swimming in chlorinated pools or using cleaning products, as chemicals may affect the metal setting over time.
Famous Cornflower Sapphires in History
Several legendary cornflower sapphires have captured the world’s attention. The Rockefeller Sapphire, weighing an impressive 62.02 carats, was owned by John D. Rockefeller. This exceptional cornflower blue stone sold for three million dollars in 2001.
The Blue Belle of Asia stands as one of the largest faceted sapphires at 392.52 carats. This magnificent gem fetched 17.3 million dollars at auction in 2014.
Perhaps the most famous cornflower sapphire in modern times is the 12-carat Ceylon sapphire engagement ring originally worn by Princess Diana and now adorning Kate Middleton’s finger. This iconic piece has done much to popularize the cornflower blue shade worldwide.
Conclusion
The cornflower Ceylon sapphire represents one of nature’s most perfect blue gemstones. Its ideal balance of color, combined with Sri Lanka’s legendary mining heritage, creates a jewel of exceptional beauty and value.
When selecting a cornflower sapphire, prioritize natural, untreated stones with certified origins. While more expensive, these specimens represent the truest form of this remarkable gem. Whether set in an engagement ring, pendant, or collector’s item, a fine cornflower Ceylon sapphire makes a timeless treasure that can be cherished for generations.
For those seeking a gemstone that combines rarity, beauty, and enduring value, the cornflower blue Ceylon sapphire stands as an excellent choice. Its soft, velvety blue hue has captivated jewelry lovers for centuries and will continue to do so for centuries to come.
Related Topics:
- Why Is Blue Sapphire So Expensive?
- What Makes a Sapphire Valuable?
- What Is Blue Sapphire Called in Hindi?
