Orange Sapphires

Orange sapphires are among the more interesting additions to the world of sapphires and coloured gemstones in general. A gemstone that features a tertiary colour, orange sapphires fall among the less conventional choice of gemstones, which are nonetheless valued for their exotic character. Whilst orange sapphires do not fall into the rare and premium range of gemstones, including those in the sapphires range, it nonetheless holds its own as a distinct gemstone colour and category. Here we will explain what sets orange sapphires apart from the rest and the factors that you need to consider when going for orange sapphire jewellery, like an orange sapphire engagement ring.

What Sets Orange Sapphires Apart?

First off, orange sapphires are sapphires through and through: so in terms of their mineral character orange sapphires are no different from any other sapphire variety: such as the famous blue sapphires. This also means that orange sapphires as corundum crystals feature the core characteristics of the gemstone: high durability, scoring a solid 9.0 on the Mohs scale for hardness. In addition, orange sapphires are known for their relatively greater clarity, as their fiery hues are known to mask underlying imperfections. The vibrant orange is a distinct one that combines the brightness of lighter stones like yellow sapphires, with the deep vividity of red gemstones like rubies. And there are good reasons why this is so, which we engage in the next point.

What is Special about Orange Sapphire’s Color?

Colours in the world of sapphires are a product of their trace element character, unlike diamonds for example which derive their colour via other, supposedly more complex means. In orange sapphires, the colour of the gemstone is a function of the presence of two key trace minerals: notably iron (Fe), and chromium (Cr). The combination of these two minerals at the right balance is what gives orange sapphires their colour. For if one or both trace minerals are found at disproportionate levels, that would alter the colour profile of the stone. For example consider that if a higher level of chromium is present in the stone its hue would turn closer to pink or even red, in the absence of other minerals to balance it.

In the world of sapphires, and non-carbon gemstones in general, colour is king. And orange sapphires have an established position owing to their rich, distinct hues. When it comes to picking gemstones, customers: from the average gem merchant, loose gemstone seekers, brick and motor and online jewellery companies and everyone else in between are always looking for a distinct feature. Something that sets their choice of gemstone apart. With orange sapphires, you have a great candidate, and depending on its particular hue, and tone it might be the exotic option you are looking for.

It is important to note that orange sapphires do not fall into a single uniform colour, as gemstones in this range from pastel oranges tones, that have a stronger presence of yellow, and hence are brighter than the more vivid orange sapphires, that feature a greater percentage of red. In some orange sapphires, the colours are found in a wonderful blend: where the orange stone appears to feature both hues in the same stone.

The Rarity of Orange Sapphires?

It is important to note that orange sapphires are not the rarest type of sapphires in the market. That place is reserved for sapphires like the Padparadscha variety. Orange sapphires are distinct in that they are not the most popular variety of corundum stones in the market: that place is held by the blue sapphire, followed by, to a lesser extent, the pink, yellow and white sapphires.

Typically the price of orange sapphires, if you find a reputable seller, is not significant, even compared to high-quality blue sapphires. However the range of these gemstones in the market that is gem quality varies considerably. Hence an authentic orange sapphire with hue tones, whilst controlling for carat and clarity will command a decent price, especially since the relative rarity of these types of sapphires relative to others.

Terms of supply and country of origin, are two key factors that determine the availability of sapphires. Today the top countries from which these gems are sourced happen to be the top sapphire-producing nations: with countries like Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and certain East African countries leading the way. Interestingly in recent times, Australia has managed to make inroads into the orange corundum gemstone market.

When it comes to the rarity of orange sapphires, what is often meant is the purity of the colour. Since colour in sapphires is a function of their trace mineral character, many gemstones in this range feature alternate hues that are mixed with the traditional orange, thus altering its value. High-valued orange sapphires are those which are deep orange, with light yellow tones, with the price of the stones correlating in accordance.

Distinct Attributes of Orange Sapphires

Alright. So now we are moving into a more mystical realm. For those interested or simply curious, orange is a powerful colour that is associated with many positive qualities. Such as being an aid for personal growth, increasing self-confidence, and as an all-around source of positive energy. Having an orange sapphire gemstone is believed to add a sense of light and clarity to the wear, allowing them to see clearly into the future with hope and vision. In the Hindu Tantric tradition orange is associated with the 2nd Chakara, which is believed to control the centres of creativity, and its restriction leads to fear and insecurity. The presence of an orange gemstone is understood to provide balance to this centre. Going deeper, orange sapphires are associated with the power and the presence of the sun: which is believed to bring warmth and protection to the wearer. Of course, if you are not a believer, the power and presence of cut orange sapphire stone in a necklace around your neck on a finger will add that special something to your life.

Picking an Orange Sapphire Engagement Ring

Right. If you are serious about owning an orange sapphire, and doing so in a way that renders the stone with true meaning, then an orange sapphire engagement ring might be the way forward. An engagement ring is arguably the most powerful testament of your love for someone, and to showcase it via a powerful orange sapphire engagement that is distinct and captivating might be the best way to do it.

When going for this ring, have an eye on the ring settings: since sapphire engagement rings are all about colour, the ring must help accentuate this core feature. Thus a solid solitaire ring could be the way forward. In addition, those who wish to add a level of quality and style might also consider incorporating side stones, like diamond accent stones to give the ring a higher-end look. Thus a diamond–orange sapphire combination in white gold is a solid bet. This may mean taking the custom engagement ring option.