What is the most expensive color of sapphire?

As a gemologist with a deep appreciation for the intricacies of gemstones, I am often asked about the value of sapphires and which color is considered the most expensive. The sapphire is a versatile gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors, each with its own unique appeal and value. However, when it comes to the most expensive color of sapphire, there are a few contenders that consistently command high prices in the market and at auction houses. **Redundancy in the market is often associated with value, and the rarity of a gemstone can significantly impact its worth.** The pink-orange padparadscha sapphire from Sri Lanka is indeed one of the rarest and most sought-after varieties. This unique color, a blend of pink and orange, is reminiscent of a tropical sunset and is highly prized for its beauty and scarcity. The color of a padparadscha is due to the presence of both chromium and iron in the corundum crystal structure, which is quite rare in nature. However, while the padparadscha is a standout for its rarity, it is not always the most expensive sapphire in terms of market value. The finest blue sapphires often take the crown for the highest auction prices. These sapphires are typically associated with the rich, velvety blue color known as "cornflower blue," which is often described as the most desirable hue for blue sapphires. The value of blue sapphires is influenced by several factors, including color saturation, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The color saturation of a sapphire is critical; the most valuable stones exhibit a vivid, medium-dark tone without being too dark, which can cause the color to appear too intense or black in certain lighting conditions. Clarity is also important, with fewer inclusions and blemishes typically leading to a higher value. The cut of the sapphire should maximize the stone's brilliance and fire, while the carat weight is a straightforward determinant of value, with larger stones being more rare and thus more valuable. Another factor that can affect the value of a sapphire is its origin. Sapphires from certain regions are known for specific qualities that can enhance their value. For example, Kashmir sapphires from India are famous for their velvety blue color and strong internal reflections, which are highly desirable traits. Similarly, sapphires from Burma (Myanmar) are known for their deep, rich blue color and strong saturation. In the world of gemstones, auction records often provide a good indication of which colors and types of sapphires are fetching the highest prices. Time and again, it is the finest blue sapphires that have set records at auction, with some stones selling for millions of dollars. It's also worth noting that treatments can affect a sapphire's value. Heat treatment is common and can improve a sapphire's color and clarity, but stones that are untreated (also known as "no-burn") are generally more valuable to collectors and connoisseurs. In conclusion, while the padparadscha sapphire is a rare and highly prized gem due to its unique color and rarity, the most expensive sapphires in terms of market value are often the finest blue sapphires, particularly those with a cornflower blue hue, excellent saturation, clarity, and cut. The origin of the sapphire, its treatment status, and its performance at auction also play significant roles in determining its value.

Most Valuable Sapphire Gemstones. You will often hear that the rarest and most expensive sapphire is the pink-orange padparadscha from Sri Lanka. But while the padparadscha is extremely rare, the finest blue sapphires are the ones that receive the top prices at auction.Dec 12, 2007