Sapphires are one of the most popular and beloved gemstones in the world, known for their striking blue color and durability. However, with the rise of synthetic gemstones and imitations, it can be difficult to determine if a sapphire is real or not. Here are some tips to help you tell if a sapphire is real or not.
- Check the color: One of the most important factors in determining if a sapphire is real is the color. Natural sapphires typically have a deep blue color, with variations in hue and saturation depending on the origin of the stone. Be wary of sapphires that are too light in color or have an unnatural hue, as they may be synthetic or treated.
- Look for inclusions: Inclusions are natural imperfections that are present in most natural gemstones, including sapphires. While inclusions may lower the overall value of a sapphire, they are a good indicator that the stone is natural. Synthetic sapphires, on the other hand, are typically free of inclusions.
- Conduct a scratch test: Sapphires are one of the hardest gemstones, with a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means that they can scratch almost any other material, including glass. To conduct a scratch test, simply rub the sapphire against a piece of glass. If the sapphire scratches the glass, it is likely real. However, be careful not to scratch the sapphire itself during this test.
- Test for refractivity: Sapphires have a high refractive index, which means that they bend light in a unique way. To test for refractivity, hold the sapphire up to a light source and look for a star or asterism effect, which is caused by the reflection of light off of inclusions in the stone. This effect is more commonly seen in star sapphires, but can also be present in regular sapphires.
- Check for treatment: Many sapphires are treated to enhance their color or clarity. Common treatments include heat treatment and diffusion treatment. Heat treatment is used to improve the color and clarity of a sapphire, while diffusion treatment is used to add color to the surface of the stone. Treated sapphires may be less valuable than untreated ones, but can still be real.
In conclusion, there are several ways to tell if a sapphire is real, including checking the color, looking for inclusions, conducting a scratch test, testing for refractivity, and checking for treatment. However, it’s important to note that these tests may not be foolproof and may require the expertise of a gemologist or jeweler to confirm the authenticity of the stone. If you’re considering purchasing a sapphire, be sure to work with a reputable dealer and ask for a certificate of authenticity.
