How to Pick a Sapphire Birthstone

A birthstone is a gem cut from a source mineral, and in the case of the sapphire, that mineral is corundum. Of the rainbow of colors manifested by corundum, blue is most popular and best known as a sapphire. Once the gem of royalty, the blue sapphire is now the birthstone for September birthdays. Along with its red sister, the ruby, it is still one of the most expensive colored gemstones.

Things You'll Need

• Synthetic and natural light (both low and intense varieties)
• Reputable dealer
• Appraiser
• Documentation of authenticity

Instructions

View Sapphire Color

1. View a wide variety of sapphires from different dealers to get an idea of available colors and color intensities. Make a note of your preferences.

2. View blue birthstone sapphires for their "tone," or degree of lightness or darkness, in various lighting conditions.

Select a Sapphire Clarity and Cut

1. Assess the clarity of a sapphire. Pick one with the least brown or gray intrusion into the true blue hue.

2. Ask the dealer whether the sapphire birthstone you want has been enhanced. This heat treatment improves the gem's translucence and often produces a richer color. Natural, unenhanced sapphires, however, are worth more.

3. Examine the shape of the cut or set sapphire, especially if you will be the wearer, to see how it looks against your skin tone.

4. View the cut of a sapphire for even brilliance. The gem you pick should sparkle with equal intensity across its whole surface.

5. Ensure that you purchase the type of sapphire you are looking for, whether fully natural, somewhat enhanced or synthetic. A respected dealer, such as one listed with the American Gem Society, will be the best source for a quality, fair trade (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Color "hue," or intensity, is a main determinant of sapphire value.

• Pick a sapphire as a gift for a fifth or forty-fifth wedding anniversary.

• Sapphires can be cut into a "star" pattern, which creates a lighter, contrasting four- to six-armed star in the center of the stone. The famous Star of India is the largest of this style, at 563 carats.

• To the untrained eye, a blue sapphire is easily confused with a blue topaz, which is usually less valuable. Always consult a respected dealer and a certified appraiser about high-quality collector's gems.

• Some very dark blue sapphires can lose their reflective qualities in low light and appear black. You might want to pass on these particular stones.

Resources

• The American Gem Society online for reputable dealers