Sapphire: Madagascar Purple
Sapphire, along with her sister gemstone ruby, belongs to the corundum group of gemstones, considered one of the hardest minerals on Earth. Purple sapphire is one of the rarest sapphires ever found.
Many associate the name sapphire with the traditional bright, opulent blue gem. After all, the name sapphire is from the Latin "sapphirus" meaning blue. However, there are numerous colors of sapphire available, including the opulent Madagascar purple sapphire. Purple sapphire was erroneously named "Oriental amethyst" during the 19th century. Advancements in technology allowed gemologist to correctly classify this gemstone as a member of the corundum family. Purple sapphire color varieties include purplish red, pinkish purple, fuchsia pink, violet and blue lavender. The purple sapphire is treasured among gem collectors. Purple pulled from south Madagascar mines is natural and does not require treatments or enhancement like other sapphires. The purple color is the product of iron, titanium and chromium elemental impurities in the chemical composition.
- A symbol of nobility or a noble soul, sapphire is historically recognized as a gem of monarchs, class and affluence.
- Ancient accounts allege that the Ten Commandments were inscribed on tablets of sapphire.
- Early Persians believed that the heaven was a sapphire.
- The explorer Marco Polo mentioned spotting sapphires during voyage to the island of modern-day Sri Lanka in a book recounting his journeys.
- Sapphires are associated with good fortune, goodness, sacredness, knowledge, honesty and loyalty.
- The British Crown Jewels features huge sapphires meant to imply an astute ruler with high moral standards.
- In Greek mythology, Prometheus, the Titan who molded man from clay and gave him the gift of fire, was the first to wear sapphire.
- Sapphire is associated with the planet Saturn.
- Sapphire may guard against injury, toxic vibes and evil thoughts.
LOCATION: Madagascar
Traditionally, purple sapphire was mined in Sri Lanka (Ceylon), with limited availability. In 1998 an amazing collection of sapphires were detected on the island of Madagascar. Mined near the town of Ilakaka, the extravagant color of the Madagascar specimens has taken the world by storm. As a valued customer, we take pride in bringing you this marvelous and prized gemstone.
- Ranks 9.0 on the Mohs hardness scale.
- Colors include purplish red, pinkish purple, fuchsia pink, violet and blue lavender.
- Sourced from Madagascar.
- Member of the corundum family.
- Birthstone for September.
- Traditional gift for 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries.
- 100 per cent natural gemstone; no heat, color or chemical alteration.
