Unheated Sapphires And Their Meanings

Colored gemstones are known for their exceptional band of colors and mesmerizing luster that instantly attracts attention. Sapphires are one of the most valuable colored gemstones in the market and they come in a wide spectrum of colors imitating rainbow hues. From classic royal blue shades to flawless black color, natural sapphires are a sweet treat to every eye.

In this article, we have discussed the difference between heated and unheated sapphire stones and their value in the market. Stay tuned till the end of this article to make a conscious choice.

Difference Between Unheated & Heated Sapphire

An unheated sapphire is a natural sapphire that has been extracted from the mines and directly polished without undergoing any synthetic treatment to alter the appearance of the stone. On the other hand, a heated sapphire is a sapphire that has undergone some sort of artificial treatment to enhance the natural hues or clarity of the stone.

Such treatments are used in natural sapphires that have mute colors or prominent eye-visible inclusions with fractures that affect the clarity as well as the durability of the stone.

What is Heat Treatment in Sapphires?

Though several techniques can be employed to improve a sapphire’s color and clarity scale, the most prevalent method is heat treatment. In this technique, sapphires are heated at high temperatures ranging from 800 to 1800℃ which improves the color of the stones and reduces silk inclusions.

At extremely high temperatures, exceeding 1400℃ or more, the silk completely dissolves leaving a transparent crystal. At times, heat treatment is also used to intensify the asterism in star sapphires, creating a more prominent star effect.

Heating can be of two types - dry heating and chemical heating. In the case of dry heating, nothing but only a natural sapphire is put in a heating chamber to intensify its color.

However, in chemical heating, agents such as glass, beryllium, iron, titanium, etc. are added to the heating chamber along with a sapphire to fill the natural cracks and add bright colors to the stone.

How to Differentiate Between a Heated and Unheated Sapphire?

If you are wondering how to differentiate between heated and unheated sapphires then the most reliable way is to ask your jeweler to provide you with a valid document from a gemological lab certifying that the gemstone has not been subjected to any sort of heat treatment.

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In general, an unheated stone has some inclusions that will be easily visible under a magnifying device. However, in the case of heated sapphires, only an expert gemologist or high-tech equipment will be able to detect whether the stone has been heat treated.

Which One is More Valuable- Heated or Unheated Sapphire?

Although unheated sapphires might have several inclusions with pale or uneven hues, such stones are considered more valuable for their rarity and natural essence. On the same note, though heated sapphires exhibit way more breathtaking appearances, their worth is quite less in comparison to their unheated counterparts due to high availability in the market.

Meaning & Symbolism Behind Sapphires

Sapphires are symbolic of royalty, loyalty, and power. Wearing a sapphire crystal blesses the wearer with the strength to make wise judgments with compassion. These stones carry a spiritual aura that connects one to divinity. Moreover, sapphires are also the official birthstones for individuals born under the Virgo zodiac as well as those born in September.

Summing Up

If you just wish to cherish a vibrant-hued and transparent sapphire at an affordable price then heated sapphires are a good choice but bear in mind that only an unheated sapphire will retain its investment value in the long run.

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Are you interested in admiring the natural beauty of an unheated sapphire? Check out the loose sapphire gemstones and gemstone jewelry collection in one of the most popular online jewelry stores. They offer a wide range of certified natural sapphires in a variety of hues, from classic royal blue to pretty pink.

Shop for birthstone bracelets, anniversary rings, or exquisite earrings featuring sparkling sapphires.