Lavender Sapphire

Natural Lavender Sapphire

Natural Lavender Sapphire is a valuable gemstone with blue shades throughout its internal structure. The gem forms under a unique process and is a favorite among collectors and jewelers who appreciate its cultural significance and breathtaking appearance. The gem’s beauty and durable nature makes it a top choice for jewelry and ornamental art.

History of Natural Lavender Sapphire

Lavender sapphires belong to the family of corundum gemstones and share some similarities with blue sapphires. The lavender sapphire variety continues to receive admiration across centuries for its unique color and rarity.

Lavender sapphires are rarer and have a shorter documented history in gemstone trade unlike blue sapphires. It features subtle pastel shades that continue to grow in popularity across recent decades, especially in bespoke and minimalist jewelry designs. Countries like Sri Lanka and Myanmar are primary sources of high-quality lavender sapphires.

How Does Natural Lavender Sapphire Form?

Lavender sapphires form in metamorphic and igneous rock deposits. These gems form under intense pressure and heat over millions of years. Their color results from trace amounts of vanadium, iron, or chromium during the crystal’s formation. Lavender deposits are common in metamorphic and igneous rock formations:

• Metamorphic Rocks: Lavender sapphires found in these rocks often form alongside garnet, spinel, and other gemstones in mineral-rich environments.
• Igneous Rocks: In volcanic regions, these sapphires crystallize within magma chambers, creating rich deposits.

The lavender color occurs due to variations in trace element concentrations and gives the gemstone its unique shades of purple or violet.

Birthstone

Natural Lavender Sapphire is a beautiful birthstone option for September. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique alternative to traditional blue sapphire.

• Symbolism: Associated with calmness, serenity, and spiritual growth.
• Anniversary Gem: Gifted as a milestone anniversary gem and symbolizes loyalty and longevity.

Treatment

Most natural lavender sapphires are untreated and this enhances their value. However, some specimens may go through heat treatment to even out or deepen their original color. This treatment does not diminish their natural appeal unlike other gemstones.

Use(s) of Natural Lavender Sapphire

Jewelry

Lavender sapphires are ideal for various jewelry designs. Their gentle color makes them versatile for casual and formal wear on:

• Engagement rings: A non-traditional yet elegant option.
• Necklaces and pendants: Popular for their charm and appeal.
• Earrings: Excellent for adding a soft pop of color.

Collector’s Item

Lavender sapphires are in demand. Gemstone collectors seek these precious stones due to their rarity and unique colors. High-quality specimens with strong color saturation and good clarity can fetch great prices in the market.

Chemical Properties of Natural Lavender Sapphire

• Color: Ranges from pale lilac to deep lavender.
• Origin: Commonly sourced from Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, and Madagascar.
• Chemical Composition: Al2O3 (aluminum oxide).
• Trace Elements: Vanadium, iron, or chromium contribute to its unique hue.
• Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale (second only to diamond).
• Specific Gravity: 3.95 – 4.03.
• Refractive Index: 1.760 – 1.770.
• Luster: Vitreous.
• UV Fluorescence: Some variants may exhibit faint fluorescence under UV light.
• Cut Varieties: Round, oval, cushion, pear, and more.
• Transparency: Ranges from transparent to opaque.
• Streak: White.

Maintenance Tips for Natural Lavender Sapphire

Cleaning

• Use warm soapy water and a soft brush to clean its surface.
• Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the stone has inclusions.

Storage

• Store separately from harder gemstones like diamonds to prevent scratching.
• Use a padded jewelry box or individual cloth bags.

Handling

• Avoid exposure to extreme heat or sudden temperature changes.
• Minimize contact with household chemicals and perfumes.

Professional Maintenance

• Have your lavender sapphire jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned annually or every other year.