By The Blue Sapphire is a gemstone of unparalleled beauty. Celebrated for its captivating beauty and deep-rooted history. Alongside diamond, emerald, and ruby, sapphire is considered one of the “Big Four” precious gemstones. Witness in two forms of final product – faceted stones and cabochon Star Sapphire. The Blue Sapphire’s colour, ranging from pale ice blue to royal blue, has mesmerized many for centuries. With a Mohs hardness of 9, it is also one of the most durable gemstones in the world.
For centuries, the Blue Sapphire has been a popular choice for jewellery and decorative objects, with its use dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. People believed it possessed magical powers. Today, it remains a desired gemstone, popularized by celebrities and royalty. And is also the birthstone for September, often featured in jewellery and gift-giving traditions.
Table of Contents
The Formation of Blue Sapphire
The formation of Blue Sapphire is a complex process that occurs within the Earth’s crust, involving extreme geological conditions of high temperatures, typically ranging from 400°C to 600°C, and pressures of approximately 4-6 kilo-bars, over a period of millions of years, often exceeding 100 million years.
It is an Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3) mineral call Corundum, composed of Aluminium (Al) and oxygen (O) atoms, with a crystal structure of hexagonal in shape. This crystal structure gives the gemstone its unique optical properties, such as its refractive index and pleochroism. The presence of trace elements, such as Iron (Fe) and Titanium(Ti) ions, is causes for distinctive blue colour in Blue Sapphire.
According to the Molecular Orbital Theory (Charge Transfer), the interaction between the energy levels of the metal ions, specifically iron (Fe) and titanium (Ti), and the crystal lattice results in the absorption and reflection of specific wavelengths, giving the Blue Sapphire its characteristic blue hue. This phenomenon is a result of the charge transfer between the metal ions and the oxygen atoms, which is a fundamental principle of the Molecular Orbital Theory.
The geological conditions required for the creation of Blue Sapphire (Corundum) are closely related to the presence of other minerals, such as Tanzanite and Spinel, which are often found in the same geological deposits. The process of forming corundum is facilitated by the movement of tectonic plates, which creates zones of high pressure and temperature, allowing the necessary conditions for the gemstone’s formation to occur.
Metamorphic rocks, play a significant role in the formation of Blue Sapphire. The presence of magma and other geological fluids in these metamorphic rocks helps to transport the necessary elements and minerals to the formation site, allowing the Blue Sapphire to crystallize and grow. Over time, these conditions, combined with the movement of the Earth’s crust, bring the Blue Sapphire to the surface, where it can be found in alluvial deposits or extracted from its primary source rocks.
The journey of the Blue Sapphire from its formation deep within the Earth’s crust to its eventual discovery on the surface is a complex and fascinating process, shaped by a combination of geological forces and events, including weathering, erosion, and plate tectonics.
Gemmological Properties
The gemmological properties of Blue Sapphire generally follow those of its base crystal, corundum (Aluminium Oxide). However, the presence of trace elements in varying concentrations and their placement within the corundum crystal structure cause a range of colours, from the coveted Royal Blue to the more pale Ice Blue. The following table outlines the Blue Sapphire’s gemmological properties:
| Properties | Value |
|---|---|
| Mohs Hardness | 9 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.95 – 4.03 |
| Tenacity | Brittle |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Uneven, Conchoidal |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 – 1.788 |
| Optical Character | Uniaxial /- |
| Birefringence | 0.008 – 0.009 |
| Pleochroism | Present |
| Dispersion | 0.018 |
| Lustre | Vitreous |
| Fluorescence (Short Wave UV) | Inert / Weaker |
| Fluorescence (Long-Wave UV) | Inert / Orange – Red |
Blue Sapphire Treatments and Enhancements
The Blue Sapphire is often subjected to treatments and enhancements to improve its appearance. These treatments can include traditional heat treatment, which can enhance the gemstone’s colour, and glass filling, which can improve its clarity. The following table outlines common treatments done to Blue Sapphire and their result:
| Treatment | Effect |
|---|---|
| Traditional Heat Treatment | Enhances blue colour |
| Reducing Condition | Reduces dark blue colour |
| Oxidizing Condition | Reduces blue patch |
| Cobalt Oxide | Used with glass filling |
| Ti Surface Diffusion | Enhances blue colour |
| Be (Beryllium) Diffusion | Reduces dark blue colour saturation |
| PHT or HT+P Treatment | Enhances blue colour and inner clarity of the gemstone |
These treatments can impact the value and durability of the Blue Sapphire, and it is essential to disclose any treatments when buying or selling the gemstone.
Gewuda / Geuda Heat Treatment
Geuda/Geuda Gemstone: This term refers to a type of lower-grade corundum that contains a notable concentration of trace elements, including iron clouds, which are referred to as Geuda, and titanium, which is present in the form of rutiles. The presence of these inclusions, comprising iron clouds (Geuda) and titanium-rich rutiles, leads to a categorisation of Geuda corundum into several sub-types, including Dum Geuda, Diesel Geuda, Milky Geuda, Silky Geuda, Young Geuda, and Ottu Geuda.
To enhance the blue colour and clarity of these stones, they are typically subjected to heat treatment at temperatures ranging from 1650 to 1950°C under atmospheric conditions, using either traditional gas furnaces or electric furnaces. However, the outcome of this process can be unpredictable, with some stones achieving optimal colour and clarity, while others may become opaque or fail to develop the desired level of blue colour saturation. In such cases, the stones may undergo further electric heat treatment with extended dwell times, which can range from 7 to 30 days. Ultimately, the final result is often a matter of chance, and the success of the treatment can be influenced by various factors, including the specific characteristics of the stone and the treatment process itself.
Identify Treatments and Enhancements
Identifying treated or enhanced Blue Sapphire requires expertise knowledge and advanced gemmological tools. The process involves a thorough examination of the stone’s inclusions and internal structures. This is crucial in determining whether the sapphire has undergone any form of treatment. Heated sapphires can sometimes be identified by looking at inclusion expansion and split rutile fingerprints in the stone. However, this is not always observable with just a 10x loupe, making it essential to use more advanced tools. The presence of these features may indicate that the sapphire has been subjected to high temperatures.
In rough form, it is even more challenging to come to a conclusion about the presence of treatments or enhancements. The lack of clarity and the presence of inclusions can make it difficult to determine the stone’s history. Therefore, it is best to consult an experienced gemmologist or a gem testing laboratory for certification. Advanced gemmological tools, such as spectroscopy and microscopy, can help identify treated or enhanced sapphires. These tools can detect subtle changes in the stone’s chemical composition and internal structure.
The Fascinating History of Blue Sapphire
Blue Sapphire has been a coveted treasure for centuries. The word “sapphire” was initially used to refer to all blue stones, and until the Middle Ages. However, the history of Blue Sapphire dates back to the 7th century B.C., when it was used in jewellery in ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome. During the Middle Ages, Blue Sapphire became a favourite gemstone of many European monarchs, who prized it for its astrological and healing properties.
One of the earliest written records of Blue Sapphire can be found in the book “Book of Marvels” by Marco Polo, who visited Sri Lanka in the 13th century. There is a belief that a 104-carat oval-cut Blue Sapphire (called The Stuart Sapphire) was carried from Sri Lanka to Scotland in the 13th century as a gift to King Alexander II by Marco Polo’s team. Interestingly, the stone is drilled at one end, indicating that it was once worn as a pendant in history. The Stuart Sapphire is now set in the coronation crowns of British monarchs, a testament to its enduring significance.
In ancient times, Blue Sapphire was believed to possess magical powers, bringing good fortune, protection, and wisdom to its wearer. In Hindu astrology, it is associated with the planet Saturn, and is believed to bring balance and harmony to the wearer’s life. In Buddhism, Blue Sapphire is considered a symbol of wisdom and spiritual growth. There are many historical records from the Eastern part of the world that suggest kings believed in the benefits of gemstones and even initiated wars with other territories to acquire valuable gemstones.
The use of Blue Sapphire in religious scripts is also noteworthy. In the Bible, sapphire is mentioned as one of the stones in the breastplate of the High Priest (Exodus 28:18). In the Quran, sapphire/ruby is described as a stone that will be used to adorn the gardens of paradise (Surah 55:58).
Throughout history, Blue Sapphire has been a popular choice among royalty and celebrities. Princess Diana and Kate Middleton have both been spotted wearing Blue Sapphire engagement rings, cementing the stone’s status as a symbol of luxury and elegance. The iconic 152 carat Jean Harlow’s star Blue Sapphire engagement ring is another notable example of the stone’s enduring appeal.
The Most Remarkable Blue Sapphires Ever Found
The Blue Belle of Asia: This cushion-cut Ceylon sapphire weighs an impressive 392.52 carats and is considered one of the largest Blue Sapphires in the world. It was discovered in Sri Lanka and sold at auction for $17.5 million in 2014, setting a new record for the most expensive sapphire ever sold.
The Logan Sapphire: This magnificent Blue Sapphire weighs 423 carats and is known for its richly saturated, deep blue colour. It is considered one of the largest and most valuable sapphires in the world.
The Star of Asia: This 330-carat star sapphire is a phenomenal example of September’s official birthstone. It is known for its striking, vibrant blue colour and its unique star pattern.
The Blue Giant of the Orient: This 486-carat faceted Blue Sapphire is considered the largest faceted Blue Sapphire in the world. Its history is shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been discovered in Sri Lanka.
The Smithsonian’s Star Sapphire Ring: This ring features a rare unheated 70.79-carat star sapphire from Sri Lanka. The gemstone has a highly unusual 12-ray star pattern, making it a true masterpiece
The Stuart Sapphire: This 104-carat Blue Sapphire is set into a brooch and is part of the British Crown Jewels. It is believed to have been mined in Sri Lanka and is considered one of the most valuable sapphires in the world
The Rockefeller Sapphire: This 62.02-carat rectangular-cut Blue Sapphire is considered one of the finest sapphires in the world. It was once owned by John D. Rockefeller and is now part of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s collection.
The Bismarck Sapphire Necklace: This necklace features a 98.57-carat Blue Sapphire surrounded by diamonds and is considered one of the most valuable sapphire necklaces in the world. It is part of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s collection
The Star of India: This 563.35-carat star sapphire is one of the largest and most valuable star sapphires in the world. It is believed to have been mined in Sri Lanka and is now part of the American Museum of Natural History’s collection
Where Blue Sapphire Is Found Around the World
Blue Sapphires are found in numerous locations worldwide, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Kashmir, Australia, the United States, and the African continent. Gemstones from each region exhibit unique characteristics and qualities.
The price of Blue Sapphires varies significantly depending on their region of origin and quality. Currently, high-quality gemstones from Sri Lanka and Myanmar command the highest prices due to their substantial production for the global market. However, Kashmir Blue Sapphires, renowned for their unique colour saturation and silky texture, consistently remain in high demand and fetch extraordinary prices. Also, each origin leaves a unique ‘fingerprint’ to the stone and its help to trace it back to its source.
Myanmar
Formerly Burma, is renowned for its exceptional Blue Sapphires. The Mogok Stone Tract, a 1000 km2 area in upper Myanmar, is the most famous locality for fine rubies and Blue Sapphires. Deposits were found in alluvial deposits, often lying under the Mogok settlement or beneath waterlogged valleys.
Thailand and Cambodia
Thailand and Cambodia are renowned for their Blue Sapphire deposits. Particularly in the Chanthaburi and Trat provinces of Thailand, and the Pailin province of Cambodia is noted for its high-quality Blue Sapphires. The industry has a long history, with deposits mined since the late 19th century, producing exceptional stones with deep, saturated blue colour and excellent clarity.
Deposits are typically found in coarse yellow or brown sand, overlaying a bed of clay or basaltic rock, often within 2.5m of the surface. The industry experienced significant growth in the late 1980s after identifying a blue colour enhancement (heat treatment) process from local dealers.
Kashmir
Kashmir Blue Sapphires are highly prized for their vibrant, sky-blue colour. Deposits were discovered in the early 20th century, specifically in the Padar district, at an altitude of 15,000 feet. The primary deposit location was Soomjam, where large quantities of excellent stones were found.
Kashmir Blue Sapphires are renowned for their unique inclusions, described as ‘ilky turbulence’ or ‘leepiness’, caused by cavities and exsolutions that diffuse incident light. This distinctive characteristic, combined with their exceptional colour, makes them highly sought after in the gem market. As a result, Kashmir Blue Sapphires are rare and expensive, with their value driven by their exceptional quality and limited availability.
Sri Lanka (Ceylon)
Sri Lanka is renowned for its vibrant Blue Sapphires (called Ceylon Blue Sapphire), with deposits found in the south-west region. The island’s gem-rich gravels, known as “illam”, are mined using simple methods, with sites chosen based on chance finds of pebbles at the surface. Deposits are typically located 15 meters down, yielding high-quality Blue Sapphires with distinctive characteristics.
The quality of Sri Lankan Blue Sapphires is exceptional, with a bright and lively appearance. The stones often exhibit a unique “arrowhead” pattern of rutile inclusions, forming V-shaped structures. Many Blue Sapphires on the market today may have undergone heat treatment to enhance their colour, with some originally being milky or colourless, known as “geuda”.
Australia
Australia’s Blue Sapphire industry has a rich history, with deposits found in New South Wales and Queensland. The New England district, particularly Inverell, has been a significant source of Blue Sapphires since the mid-19th century, with commercial production beginning after World War I. The Blue Sapphires from this region are known for their dark, vibrant colour, often with a mix of greenish or teal undertones.
United States of America
The USA Blue Sapphire industry is renowned for its exceptional quality and unique characteristics. Notably, the Yogo deposit in Montana, discovered in 1900, is a significant source of high-quality Blue Sapphires, with a distinct bright and deep colour.
The Yogo deposit, located in Judith Basin County, Montana, is a rare example of sapphires being mined from their parent rock, a dark silica-poor lamprophyre dike. The deposit has been worked since the early 20th century, with notable production in the 1910s and 1920s.
African Sapphire
Africa’s Blue Sapphire industry is scattered across various regions, with notable deposits found in Madagascar, Tanzania, and Kenya. In Madagascar, Blue Sapphires have been discovered in the Beraketa region and Ilakaka river, with moderate quality stones found in abundance. The town of Ilakaka has become a major gemstone trading centre, with Blue Sapphires reported to have a distinct characteristic.
In Tanzania, Blue Sapphires are mined in the Umba river valley, near the Kenya border, with pastel shades being particularly attractive. The quality of Blue Sapphires from this region is highly regarded, with some stones exhibiting a high level of clarity and colour saturation. The current gem market demands high-quality Blue Sapphires, and Tanzanian stones are highly sought after.
Kenya’s Tsavo West National Park is also home to Blue Sapphires, although the quality and quantity are limited compared to other regions. Malawi’s Chimwadzulu Hill has produced some Blue Sapphires, but the majority of the corundum found there is of other colours. The Blue Sapphires from Malawi are often described as having a dark, purplish-blue colour, with some stones weighing over 1 carat being sold on their individual merits.
Gemstone Imitations and Synthetics
The Blue Sapphire is often imitated or synthesized. It is essential to be able to differentiate between natural, synthetic, and imitation Blue Sapphire to ensure authenticity and value. By learning about the different types of imitations and synthetics, gemstone enthusiasts can make informed decisions.
Lab-Created Blue Sapphires
Lab-created Blue Sapphires are made using advanced technologies that replicate the natural processes that form gemstones. The most common methods include Sublimation, Skull Crucible, and Flame Fusion (Verneuil method). These methods involve high temperatures and pressures to create a synthetic Blue Sapphire that mimics the natural stone.
Flame Fusion (Verneuil Method)
The Flame Fusion method, also known as the Verneuil method, involves using a high-temperature flame to melt the aluminium oxide powder. The molten material is then slowly cooled and crystallized, resulting in a synthetic Blue Sapphire. This method is commonly used to produce high-quality synthetic gemstones.
Flux-Growth Method
The Flux-Growth method dissolves aluminium oxide in a molten flux, allowing it to crystallize as it cools over the period. Impurities like titanium and iron are introduced to create the blue colour, resulting in a high-quality synthetic Blue Sapphire with a natural appearance.
Imitation Methods
Imitation Blue Sapphires can be made using various materials, including glass or doublets. Glass imitations are made by colouring glass to mimic the appearance of Blue Sapphire. Doublets, on the other hand, involve layering a blue-coloured material / piece of Blue Sapphire, such as glass or plastic, over a base material, often a white stone.
Glass Imitations
Glass imitations of Blue Sapphire are made by adding colouring agents, such as cobalt or iron, to molten glass. The resulting glass has a similar appearance (intentionally create cracks and inclusions to appear natural stone) to Blue Sapphire but lacks the hardness and durability of the natural stone. Glass imitations can be easily identified by their lack of inclusions and uniform colour.
Doublet Imitations
Doublet imitations involve layering a blue-coloured material over a base material, often a white stone. This technique can create a stone that appears to be a Blue Sapphire but is actually a composite material. Doublets can be identified by examining the stone’s edges, where the layers may be visible, or by using a jeweller’s loupe to examine the stone’s characteristics.
Easiest way to identify synthetics stone with 10x Loupe
Identifying synthetic Blue Sapphires can be done using a 10x loupe to examine the stone’s inclusions and growth patterns to some extent. Natural Blue Sapphires typically have unique inclusions, such as rutile needles or zircon halos, that are not found in synthetics. However, accurate identification often requires the expertise of a skilled gemmologist using a specialized gemmological microscope and an up-to-date inclusion database.
Blue Sapphire as a Birthstone
The Blue Sapphire is the birthstone for September and is often used in jewellery and gift-giving traditions. Also consider wedding anniversary stone of 5th and 45th.
Astrological and Healing Benefits of Blue Sapphire
The Blue Sapphire is associated with several zodiac signs and planets, including Libra and Saturn. The gemstone is believed to have spiritual and emotional healing properties, making it a popular choice for meditation and holistic practices. The Blue Sapphire is also believed to bring balance and harmony to those who wear it, making it a popular choice for those seeking to improve their mental and emotional well-being.
The Blue Sapphire’s astrological and healing benefits are closely tied to its cultural and historical significance. The gemstone has been used in various cultural and historical contexts, such as in the coronation crowns of British monarchs. The Blue Sapphire’s astrological and healing benefits are also closely tied to its material properties, with the gemstone’s unique crystal structure and optical properties making it a popular choice for meditation and holistic practices.
Investing in Blue Sapphire
The Blue Sapphire is a valuable investment opportunity, with high-quality gemstones appreciating in value over time. Precious stones increasing by as much as 20% in value over the past 5 years. It is essential to identify high-quality specimens and work with trusted dealers, such as those found in the gemstone markets of Bangkok, Jaipur or Sri Lanka, to ensure authenticity and value. The Blue Sapphire’s investment potential is closely related to its cultural and historical significance, with the gemstone being a popular choice for collectors and investors.
Identifying Quality Blue Sapphire for Investment
When investing in Blue Sapphire, several factors must be considered to ensure a valuable purchase, including the 4Cs: colour, carat, cut, and clarity. The colour of the gemstone is crucial, with shades ranging from pastel blue to deep blue, each with its own unique value, and with the most valuable being the vibrant blue of the Kashmir Sapphire. The carat weight of the stone also plays a significant role, larger stones typically appreciating more in value over time.
Key Factors to Consider
Colour: The colour of the Blue Sapphire is a critical factor, with different shades affecting its value, and with the most valuable being the royal Blue Sapphire, which can sell for up to $10,000 per carat. Pastel blue, blue, cornflower, vivid blue, royal blue, and deep blue are some of the colours to consider, with each having its own unique characteristics and value.
Carat: The carat weight of the Blue Sapphire is also essential, with larger stones generally being more valuable due rare to find. A bigger stone has higher value appreciation, making it a significant factor in investment decisions, with some investors seeking stones over 5 carats.
Cut: The cut of the Blue Sapphire is vital, as a well-cut stone can enhance its beauty and value, with the most popular cuts being the oval, round, and cushion cut. The cutting style can also impact the stone’s overall appearance and worth, with quality cuts increasing the stone’s value by up to 15%.
Clarity: The clarity of the Blue Sapphire is another critical factor, as inclusions can affect its valuation, with the most valuable being the “eye-clean” stones, which have no inclusions visible to the naked eye. A stone with fewer inclusions is generally more valuable than one with more, with some investors seeking stones with a clarity grade of IF or VVS.
Enhancement or Treatment: Any enhancement or treatment of the Blue Sapphire can impact its value, and it is essential to disclose such information, with some treatments, such as heat treatment, being more common than other treatment methods.
Origin: The origin of the Blue Sapphire can also affect its value, with stones from certain locations, such as Kashmir, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka, being more valuable than others, like Madagascar and Cambodia. The most valuable Blue Sapphires come from the Kashmir region, which can sell for up to $20,000 per carat.
Buying from a Trusted Source and Appraisal
When investing in a Blue Sapphire, it is crucial to buy from a trusted source, such as a reputable dealer or auction house, like Sotheby’s or Christie’s, and have the stone appraised by a professional, like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Gübelin Gem Lab, Swiss Gemmological Institute (SSEF), Gem Research Swisslab (GRS) and International Gemological Institute (IGI). This ensures the stone’s authenticity and value, providing peace of mind for the investor, and with some appraisals increasing the stone’s value by up to 20%.
Comparing Blue Sapphire Investment to S&P 500
Comparing the investment potential of Blue Sapphire to the S&P 500 over 20 years reveals interesting insights, with the S&P 500 having a average annual return of 7.5%, while a high-quality Blue Sapphire can appreciate by up to 10% per year, with some stones increasing in value by as much as 50% over the past 10 years. While the S&P 500 can be volatile, with fluctuations in the market affecting its value, a rare and high-quality Blue Sapphire can retain its value and even appreciate over time, making it a more stable investment option.
Comparing Blue Sapphire Investment to Gold
Similarly, comparing the investment potential of Blue Sapphire to gold over 20 years shows that both can be valuable investments, with gold having an average annual return of 5.5%, while a high-quality Blue Sapphire can appreciate by up to 10% per year, with some stones increasing in value by as much as 70% over the past 15 years. However, the price of gold can fluctuate, whereas a rare and high-quality Blue Sapphire can retain its value and even appreciate over time, making it a more stable investment option, according to experts like Martin Roscheisen, a gemstone investor and founder of the Diamond Foundry.
Market Trends
Market trends also play a significant role in the value of Blue Sapphires, with demand for high-quality stones driving up prices, particularly in Asia, where Blue Sapphires are highly prized for their beauty and rarity. According to a report by the gemstone market research firm, Gemstone Market Research, the global market for Blue Sapphires is expected to grow by 10% per year over the next 5 years, driven by increasing demand from collectors and investors in China, India, and other emerging markets.
Star Blue Sapphire
The star Blue Sapphire industry is a niche market that thrives on the unique phenomenon of asterism. To exhibit this effect, star Blue Sapphires must be cut as cabochons, allowing the exsolved rutile or hematite ‘ilk’ to refract light and create a star-like pattern. This asterism is caused by the unmixing of a solid solution, where impurities are forced out of the corundum as it cools.
The cutting process is crucial, with the base of the cabochon parallel to the basal pinacoid, allowing the star effect to be visible. The presence of both hematite and rutile silk can create a twelve-rayed star, a rare occurrence in Blue Sapphires. To fully appreciate the star effect, the stone should be examined in direct sunlight or under a single, intense light source.
Buying Rough and Cut & Polished Ceylon Blue Sapphire in Sri Lanka Market
Sri Lanka, renowned for its Ceylon Blue Sapphire trade, is a hub for gemstone enthusiasts. The country’s gem market, particularly in Ratnapura and Beruwala, offers a wide range of rough and cut & polished sapphires. With a rich history and cultural significance, the Blue Sapphire is a unique and valuable gemstone, highly sought after by collectors, investors, and jewellery lovers.
Buying Rough Sapphire in Roadside Market in Ratnapura “City of Gems”
Ratnapura, located 101 km southeast of Colombo, is a city that attracts gemstone miners, brokers, and traders from all over the country. The roadside market in Ratnapura, specifically in areas like Nivithigala, Rathnapura town, Heraniyawaka, and Rakwana, is a hotspot for buying rough sapphires. Miners and brokers gather here to sell their gemstones. Gathering start around 7:00 am everyday, and the activity peaks around 9:00 am, with traders and buyers haggling over prices. As the day progresses, the market starts to wind down, and by 11:00 am. It’s essential to arrive early to get the best deals, as the selection of rough sapphires is usually at its best during the morning hours. Cash payments are the norm, and negotiations can be intense, with prices fluctuating based on the quality, size, and colour of the gemstones.
Buying Cut & Polish Sapphire in Beruwala (China Fort Gem Market)
Beruwala, situated 55 km south of Colombo, is another significant gem market in Sri Lanka. The China Fort Gem Market in Beruwala is a popular destination for buying cut & polished sapphires, not only from Sri Lanka but also from Africa. Miners, brokers, and traders converge here to sell their final products. The market is open every day, except Fridays, and starts around 12 noon, with buyers setting up their stalls. The market remains active until around 5:00 pm, with traders and buyers negotiating prices and examining the gemstones. Beruwala is a more secure and reliable place to buy gemstones. Even credit deals are based on trust between sellers and buyers.
Having Benefit Knowing Trustable Experience Local Person with You
When navigating the Sri Lankan gem market, it is essential to have a trusted and experienced local person by your side. This can make a significant difference in finding the best deals and avoiding potential scams. With a local guide, you can visit the markets in Ratnapura and Beruwala, meet reputable traders, and get a better understanding of the gemstone industry. A local dealer can also provide valuable insights into the market trends and prices, helping you to make informed decisions and ensure a smoother buying experience. Additionally, a trusted local partner can help you to identify high-quality gemstones, verify their authenticity, and negotiate the best prices.
Explore Sri Lanka Gem Market with Afrih Anver
References
- Smithsonian, GEM, 2016
- Peter G. Read, Gemmology, 2005
- Yasukazu Suwa, Gemstones Quality and Value Volume 1 & 2, 1993
- 08 Jan. 25, https://www.lotusgemology.com
- 08 Jan. 25, https://www.gemdat.org/gem-3529.html
- 09 Jan. 25, https://sholagems.com/colour-and-optical-effects-in-gemstones/
- 09 Jan. 25, https://yourgemologist.com/sapphire.html
- 09 Jan. 25, https://www.ceylons.de/blog-en/gemstone-investment-a-guide-to-investing-in-your-first-gemstone
- 10 Jan. 25, https://marketresearch.biz/report/gemstones-market/
- 10 Jan. 25, https://medium.com/justin-k-prim/aigs-sri-lanka-trip-2017-1393db48b388
- 12 Jan. 25, https://www.blackacreldn.com/journal/the-gem-markets-beruwala
- 14 Jan. 25, https://www.gemsociety.org/article/top-five-gemstone-investments/
- 14 Jan. 25, https://www.navratan.com/blog/astrological-benefits-of-blue-sapphire-for-career-and-health?srsltid=AfmBOoraaXB-IOOGh0nKyJ7Cp614-2QM4D8d9sQwFvJPDTgJa-G67Vkd
- 16 Jan. 25, https://www.gemsociety.org/article/understanding-gem-synthetics-treatments-imitations-part-4-synthetic-gemstone-guide/