Sapphires are the iconic birthstone of September, treasured for their stunning blue hues and timeless appeal. However, with the increasing popularity of sapphires, many imitations and treated stones flood the market. Knowing how to identify genuine sapphires ensures you invest in authentic, high-quality gemstones. This guide shares expert tips to help you spot genuine September birthstone sapphires with confidence.
Understanding What Makes a Sapphire Genuine
A genuine sapphire is a natural corundum gemstone primarily composed of aluminum oxide. Its characteristic colors—most famously deep blue—result from trace elements like iron and titanium. Genuine sapphires differ from synthetic or treated stones based on origin, clarity, and durability.
Tip 1: Examine the Color Quality
One of the most important factors in spotting a genuine sapphire is its color. Natural sapphires typically display rich, vibrant blues with slight variations in tone and saturation. Look for a deep, velvety blue rather than overly bright or neon-like hues, which could indicate artificial coloring.
Tip 2: Check for Natural Inclusions
Unlike synthetic stones, genuine sapphires usually contain tiny natural inclusions or imperfections. Using a jeweler’s loupe, look for small needles, mineral crystals, or “silk” inclusions inside the stone. These inclusions prove the sapphire is natural, although they shouldn’t be overly obvious or detract from the stone’s beauty.
Tip 3: Beware of Treated Sapphires
Heat treatment is a common process used to enhance sapphire color and clarity. While treated sapphires are still natural stones, untreated sapphires tend to be more valuable. Ask your jeweler for certification detailing any treatments the stone has undergone.
Tip 4: Test the Hardness
Sapphires are extremely hard, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamonds. A genuine sapphire resists scratching from most materials. Though you shouldn’t test this harshly yourself, reputable jewelers can perform hardness tests to verify authenticity.
Tip 5: Verify with a Gemological Certificate
A trusted way to confirm sapphire authenticity is to request a certificate from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as GIA or AGS. These certificates provide detailed information about the sapphire’s origin, treatments, and quality characteristics.
Tip 6: Observe the Cut and Craftsmanship
High-quality sapphires are expertly cut to maximize their color and brilliance. Genuine stones often feature precise faceting with symmetrical shapes. Poor cutting or irregular shapes might indicate synthetic or lower-quality stones.
Tip 7: Compare Price Points
If a sapphire’s price seems too good to be true, it may be synthetic or treated. Genuine sapphires with excellent color, clarity, and size command premium prices. Use market knowledge to gauge if the price aligns with the stone’s reported quality.
Conclusion
Spotting genuine September birthstone sapphires requires a combination of keen observation and expert knowledge. By examining color, inclusions, treatments, hardness, and certification, you can confidently identify authentic sapphires. Investing time to understand these factors ensures your sapphire jewelry remains a valuable and cherished treasure for years to come.
