Sapphire Gemstones

Yes. Sapphire is a popular choice for engagement rings because it combines durability with a distinctive colour. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphire is suitable for everyday wear and is second only to diamond in hardness. Blue sapphires are the most recognisable, but you can also choose from pink, yellow, green, orange, purple and other colours.

Blue is the classic choice and remains one of the most sought-after sapphire colours, but there is no single colour that is right for every engagement ring. Blue sapphires can range from light to deep blue, while fancy sapphires are available in colours such as pink, yellow, green and orange. When choosing a colour, consider the shade you naturally prefer, the metal of the ring and whether you want the sapphire to be the main feature or complemented by diamonds.

Start with colour, as this has a major influence on a sapphire's appearance and value. Look for a colour that is attractive and evenly distributed, with good saturation and brightness. You should also consider clarity, cut and carat weight, although these factors are assessed differently from diamonds. 

The sapphire's treatment, origin and certification may also be important depending on the stone. Finally, consider the ring setting and how well it protects the gemstone for everyday wear.

A sapphire's value is influenced by several factors, including colour, clarity, cut, carat weight, treatment and, in some cases, origin. For blue sapphires, colour is particularly important, with strong, attractive colour and good brightness generally being desirable.

Fine sapphires with exceptional colour and quality can be rare. Treatments also matter because they can affect rarity and value. Rather than judging a sapphire by size alone, it is worth looking at the overall quality and appearance of the individual gemstone.

Yes, many natural sapphires are treated to improve their colour and clarity. Heat treatment is one of the most common treatments and is widely accepted in the jewellery industry. Untreated sapphires can be particularly sought after when they have strong colour and good clarity because they are naturally rarer. 

When buying a sapphire, ask whether it has been treated and make sure this information is clearly disclosed. Understanding the treatment helps you compare stones and make a more informed decision based on your priorities and budget.

Speak to a gemstone expert to know more.

Clean your sapphire ring regularly using warm water, mild soap and a soft brush to remove everyday dirt and build-up. Avoid harsh chemicals and take care when wearing the ring during activities where it could be knocked or exposed to abrasive materials. 

It is also worth having the setting checked periodically to make sure the sapphire and any surrounding diamonds remain secure. Our expert Hatton Garden jewellers can check the setting and stones as part of your ongoing ring care.