Introduction
Imagine you’re at a sophisticated dinner party, wearing a stunning piece of jewelry that catches the light—and the eyes—of those around you. This is no ordinary gem; it’s a color change sapphire, a gemstone that displays a magical shift in color depending on the lighting. It’s a conversation starter, a piece that intrigues and fascinates, reflecting not just light but also the multifaceted aspects of your personality.
However, the challenge lies in truly understanding this mesmerizing gem. Many are captivated by its beauty but puzzled by its nature. How does it change color? Is it a trick of the light or something more? This mystery often leads to a pivotal question: what exactly is a color change sapphire, and what makes it so unique and sought after in the world of gemstones?
The answer lies in a remarkable interplay of light and crystal structure. Color change sapphires are a testament to nature’s artistry, showcasing different colors in different lighting conditions due to their unique mineral composition. This article will explore the science behind this stunning phenomenon, the rarity and value of color change sapphires, and how they have become symbols of elegance and versatility in the world of high-end jewelry.
What is a Lab Created Sapphire?
A lab created color change sapphire is a gemstone created in a laboratory rather than being mined from the earth. We could also call them lab-grown sapphire or lab sapphire. Manufacturers produce these gems using various crystal growth methods that mimic the natural processes that occur in the earth’s crust over millions of years.
Lab-created sapphires have the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural stones. Both are the same mineral, corundum. Corundum is a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. It can come in various colors, with blue being the traditional sapphire color. However, lab-created sapphires can also occur in other colors, such as pink, yellow, and white.
These sapphires are typically more affordable than natural ones because they can be produced in a controlled environment, allowing for more efficient and cost-effective production.
You already know that we use sapphire in jewelry. But we use lab-grown sapphire in industrial applications such as producing high-tech components like watch faces, optical windows, and scientific instruments. It’s true!
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The Magic of Color-Changing Gemstones
Color-changing gemstones are a rare and fascinating phenomenon that intrigues enthusiasts and collectors. These gemstones exhibit a color shift phenomenon, which refers to their ability to display different colors under different lighting conditions.
The color change effect is due to different trace elements and the crystal’s crystal lattice structure. When exposing the stone to various light sources, such as natural daylight or artificial light, the trace elements in the crystal absorb and reflect light differently, resulting in the perceived change in color.
Color Change Sapphire: The Best of Both Worlds
Synthetic color change sapphire is an excellent example of the marriage of science and beauty. Makers produce these gemstones using the same mineral composition and crystal structure as natural sapphires but with the advantage of controlling their color and other properties during growth. This process allows for the creation of gemstones with unique and mesmerizing color-changing properties not typically found in natural gemstones.
The Enchanting Purple to Pink Color Change
The change starts with a base color of purple, similar to amethyst. However, when exposed to artificial light, such as incandescent or LED light, the gemstone undergoes a stunning transformation, changing its color to pink. The exact shade of pink may vary depending on the specific stone and the lighting conditions, ranging from hearty wine to vivid magenta. This mesmerizing color change is a true delight to behold. It adds an element of magic and mystique to the gemstone.
Meanings of Color Change Sapphire
Like all gemstones, color change sapphire has its meanings and symbolism. Purple gems often represent nobility, power, spirituality, and creativity. On the other hand, pink jewels signify love, compassion, femininity, and self-care.
The color-changing property adds an exciting dimension to these meanings. One meaning can take the form of transformation from one symbolic aspect to another. You can also take the meaning as a representation of change, growth, adaptability, and the interplay between different emotions and energies.
Having written about gems for over a decade, I see this interplay of colors as something exceptional. The mysterious, dreamlike purples recede under a new light, melting into a dusky rose. It’s a metaphor for love, both old and new – a model of the cycles that long-lasting relationships take as we rediscover our partners through growth and change.
The Versatility and Beauty of Color Change Sapphire
Lab-created color-changing sapphires are highly versatile gemstones. Their unique color-changing property makes them a captivating choice for those who appreciate the rarity and beauty of color-changing gems. The combination of the base purple color and the pink color under artificial light creates a visually stunning and dynamic gemstone that is sure to draw attention and spark conversations.
Synthetic Sapphire Price
Color-changing sapphires are rare and highly valued due to their unique and captivating optical properties. The intensity and nature of the color change can vary, with some color-changing sapphires displaying a more pronounced and dramatic shift in color. In contrast, others may exhibit a more subtle change. The most desirable color-changing sapphires show a distinct and noticeable color change.
Naturally occurring color change sapphire is rare and wondrous. And such rare stones command high prices! For example, a recent Sotheby’s auction for a color change sapphire ring closed with an estimated 35 to 55 thousand dollars. And just a couple of years ago, a Bonhams auction for a loose three-carat color-changing sapphire closed at $2040!
Who wouldn’t want to own such a beautiful stone? Unfortunately, you need not only the money to compete but also the time to bid – and then be lucky enough to win! Shop LC offers a better way to add this fascinating stone to your jewelry collection. And this way doesn’t break the bank.
Thanks to long-standing industry connections, Shop LC offers you a chance to collect your color-shifting sapphire. Shop LC procured a limited supply of color-change sapphire through a trusted vendor. The 30-kilogram collection of rough material weighs about the same as your average Labrador Retriever. Our green-focused manufacturing facilities turned these rocks into beautiful, finished gemstones.
What you get is genuine color change sapphire. These stones have the same chemical composition as what occurs in nature. And, thanks to the controlled process, these stones display distinctive color-shifting properties. However, who wants a hefty price tag? In typical retail, jewelry often experiences a 100 to 300 percent markup.
Conclusion
The allure of the color change sapphire lies not just in its captivating beauty, but also in the profound mystery and romance it embodies. Each gem tells a unique story, shifting hues with the light, mirroring the diverse facets of life and love. These gemstones serve as a metaphor for change and adaptability, traits that resonate deeply with those who appreciate both the constant and the transient in life.
This remarkable gem, with its ability to dance between shades, symbolizes the deep and multifaceted nature of our emotions and experiences. It encourages us to embrace change and find beauty in the varied tapestry of our lives. Owning a color change sapphire is more than a statement of style; it is a celebration of the richness and complexity of our existence.
As we journey through life’s myriad moments, let the color change sapphire be a reminder of the ever-evolving beauty around us and within us. It stands as a testament to the enduring romance and mystery that life offers, inviting us to explore, embrace, and express every shade of our being.
Updated December 11, 2023.