Greetings!
Since man first discovered gems, they have been universally valued as symbols of love, commitment, appreciation and respect. Today, we know much about the science and formation of gems that we have grown to recognize and appreciate what valuable gifts of nature they are. This month we are featuring the gem-Sapphire.
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MOST SAPPHIRES ARE BLUE
Blue is the most common color of sapphire and has long been the most popular color of this gemstone. Blue is associated with feelings of harmony, friendship and loyalty. This may explain why women in many countries choose sapphires for their engagement ring. Second in hardness only to diamond, sapphires are perfect for jewelry such as rings and bracelets because of the need to endure everyday wear.
September's birthstone, sapphire is also the
preferred gift for the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries, historically
symbolizing truth and promise keeping. In fact, sapphire is a popular gem choice
for brides who want to express their unique personality. Fans of sapphire
engagement rings include Queen Elizabeth, Princess Anne, Princess Diana, Joan
Crawford, Jean Harlow, Ivana Trump, Kirstie Alley and Debra Messing.
Don't like blue? Read on...
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SAPPHIRE OCCURS IN ALL COLORS... EXCEPT RED
Sapphire is essentially the colorless mineral corundum (aluminum oxide.) Many years ago this mineral was exposed to intense heat and pressure at great depths inside the earth's crust. When it finally cooled, a gem was formed. During this event there were often present, small amounts of other elements, especially iron and
chrome. It is these elements that are responsible for many colors of corundum; such as blue, red, yellow, pink or greenish sapphire.
For
centuries there were differences of opinion among gem dealers and gemologists as to
which stones deserved to be called sapphires and which should be called rubies. Finally, it was agreed
that the ruby-red ones, colored by chrome, should be called 'rubies'
and all those which were not ruby-red 'sapphires'.
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TOP QUALITY SAPPHIRES ARE RARE
Specialists and connoisseurs regard the Kashmir
color with its velvety shine as the most beautiful and most valuable
blue. Typical of the Kashmir
color is a pure, intense blue with a very subtle violet undertone,
which is intensified yet more by a fine, silky shine. It is said that
this hue does not change in artificial light. But the Burmese color is
also regarded as particularly valuable. It ranges from a rich, full
royal blue to a deep cornflower blue.
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Our family has been in jewelry the business for over 4 generations. Let us help you make your
relationships better with a gift of jewelry. e-mail or Call Today! 952/525-0207
Sincerely,
John Carlstrom, Accredited Gemologist
Jewelry Specialties
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Check out our new website:
jewelryspecialties.com
We also offer on-site jewelry appraisals, repairs and design.
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Sapphire at a Glance
- September Birthstone
- Value depends on size, color and transparency
- All colors except red (which is called ruby)
- Designated gem of 5th and 45th wedding anniversary
- Commonly heat treated to stabilize color
- Mineral Family-Corundum: (aluminum oxide)
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Pink Sapphire & Diamond Pendant Slide-Wear 5 Ways
 Two-tone 14k white & yellow gold 1/5ctw diamond pendant slide. 3 separate components can be worn 5 ways. Regular Price$689.00Sale Price $459.00Chain sold separately.
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1/3 Carat Round Blue Sapphire & Diamond Ring
14k white gold ring with .35ct genuine blue sapphire & .06ctw.
Regular Price$540.00
Sale Price $358.00
Matching pendant & earrings available
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