How to Rate Light Colored Sapphires

Light-colored sapphires can be bigger and brighter than their darker counterparts.

Light-colored sapphires are extremely beautiful gems that are often much less expensive than their deeper-colored counterparts. However, many people prefer them because they appear similar to fancy-colored diamonds and can also complement pale skin in a way that deeper colors do not. When you are selecting a light-colored sapphire, you need to factor in aspects of the gemstone that you would not consider when buying a darker-colored gem.

Instructions

1. 

   Look for flaws. Most colored gemstones do not have noticeable flaws because the additional color makes interior inclusions actually add to the play of light in the gem rather than detract from its beauty. However, with light-colored sapphires, you need to examine them for visible interior flaws in the same way that you would a diamond. The cut of the gem can still work with the flaws, but too many will make it appear milky or muddy.

2. Evaluate the color. If you are interested in a light-colored sapphire, you will generally be purchasing a less-expensive stone. Since this is the case, you can be a bit pickier about the color. Make sure that it is bright and even. Just because a sapphire is light in color does not mean that it should be irregular or milky. Yellow, orange and lavender pastel shades in particular are dazzling and affordable, but they should be crystal clear.

3. 

   Examine the cut. The cut of a light-colored sapphire is very important because it will dramatically impact the brilliance of your stone. Unless you are just extremely fond of cabochon gems, you should avoid this type of cut for a light-colored sapphire. Instead, opt for a faceted cut that will really make your gem light up.

4. Look at the top face of the gemstone. In light-colored stones, not only should the top face be free from anomalies like scratches and surface inclusions, it should also reflect light evenly. Dark spots visible from the top of the gem indicate a refractive anomaly and significantly decrease the value and beauty of a stone.

5. 

   Select the perfect setting. A light sapphire may be especially striking when paired with smaller, darker gems in the same color family, or you may prefer to offset it with small diamonds or other light-colored stones. Gradient jewelry is particularly popular with pastel sapphires and creates a rainbow effect.

Tips & Warnings

• Buying light-colored sapphires is generally a "pleasure purchase" more than a serious investment. If you are interested in buying jewelry strictly as an investment, then work with a jeweler and a broker to ensure that you purchase the right types of stones and metals.