The Stars are Aligned for Sapphires
We are offering this rare blue beauty during its birthstone month of September. Find out why its sparkle is so special.
Sapphires are a part of the "The Big Four," along with diamonds, rubies, and emeralds. They are traditionally known for their stunning hues of blue, magnificent shine, and connection with moments of celebration — usually marriage. We are offering this dazzling oval cut Sapphire, Gold, and Diamond Ring in our Signature Fall Auction, on September 10th, 2022. Read on to learn three facts about this ring that make it fit for a princess (...or a duchess).
The top gemstone is before heat treatment. The bottom stone is the same gem after treatment.
1. This natural corundum gemstone is of Ceylonese (Sri Lanka) origin, with no evidence of heat treatment. Heat treatment is a standard industry practice that enhances the deep blue color and clarity of the sapphire. Remaining true to its original state, this gemstone is a reminder of the spectacular beauty of nature.
Byzantine pendant showing the Virgin and Child – includes pearls, emeralds, garnets, sapphires, and a sardonyx – The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
2. With a Mohs hardness rating of 9.0, sapphires are rated the strongest and most scratch resistant of gemstones, after diamonds. During Medieval times, the clergy wore sapphires to symbolize heaven and to protect against sin. It is only fitting that this ring has a halo of full cut round diamonds protecting this sapphire, both physically and spiritually.
Duchess of Cambridge, to the left; Princess Diana, to the right.
3. The style icon, Princess Diana, picked out a similar sapphire engagement ring from House of Garrard. Prince Harry inherited her ring, but gifted it to Prince William so he could propose to the current Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton. Sapphires are a lovely heirloom that shine for generations.
