The Blue Sapphire gemstone, with its many healing powers and metaphysical properties, is an in-demand gem. It is one of the longest-known gemstones and is admired for its beauty and rarity. The gem is a good investment option as well but only when you buy a good quality gemstone.
Even astrologically, it is advised to wear a good quality gem. But how to know if the gem you are buying is fine and of good quality? In this blog, we have discussed the many factors by which you can check the quality of your gemstone. Read all these aspects to get the knowledge of how to judge your gem and figure out its grade.
Blue Sapphire Quality Aspects
The quality or standards of a gem affects the price of the gem. The factors that will affect the condition or nature of the stone are cut, color, clarity, carat weight, origin and treatment processes done on the sapphire.
We will discuss all these aspects one by one to get a better understanding of how the gems are graded:
Colour
The blue sapphire colors can vary in the shade of blue. The stones can be found in dark or lighter tones. The ones that are pale in color, and have overtones or undertones with non-uniform distribution are of low quality. A supreme quality Neelam is the one with a dark deep blue hue with uniform distribution, vividness, good luster and transparency and no overtone of black.
Clarity
The clarity of a gemstone refers to the absence of internal or external flaws, which are known as inclusions and abrasions. While most gemstones have some degree of inclusions, those with no visible inclusions or abrasions are exceptionally rare and highly valued. A gemstone with high clarity will exhibit a pristine appearance and allow light to pass through unimpeded, enhancing its overall brilliance. The more transparent and flawless the gem, the higher its quality and value. Therefore, a stone with superior clarity is not only a testament to its fine craftsmanship but also significantly contributes to its overall standard and desirability.
Cut
The gems are cut by craftsmen to improve their color distribution and remove any inclusions. The precise cut needs a lot of practice over the years so a skilful cut gem will be of good quality. You should check that the cuts are accurate and precise. The cuts should be fine only then your blue sapphire stone is of good quality.
Carat Weight
The weight of the gem can also affect the Neelam price and quality. Large-size gems are very rare, especially with no flaws. Mostly, the large-size gems have inclusions or are mixed with another type of gemstone, so larger-carat weight gems of good quality are scarce and can cost more. If you are buying a higher-carat weight gem, check it for inclusions.
Origin
The origin or source of a blue sapphire can significantly impact its price, often more so than its grade. This is due to the historical reputation of certain regions for producing exceptionally high-quality gems. For example, Ceylon (Sri Lanka) is renowned for its superior blue sapphires. Sapphires from these prestigious locations are highly sought after, and when a gem with fewer flaws is discovered from such origins, it commands a premium price. Thus, the provenance of the gemstone can greatly influence both its value and desirability in the market.
Treatment Processes
The treatment processes are done on the gemstone to enhance its clarity and color. After some time the color might fade again. So, in the start, the gem might look of good quality, so make sure that when you are going to buy a gem, it is not treated. You should buy a natural gem of fine quality.
Conclusion
All these aspects will decide the quality of your blue sapphire or Neelam stone. If you are purchasing an original gem, make sure that you check the gem and ensure that it is of good standard. To maintain the beauty of the gem, keep good care of it as well, it can be a great investment but it needs to be taken care of. Regularly clean it and get it inspected. You can take advice from our consultants for free at Navratan, the online gem bazaar. Here, you will get all the information you need, as well as you can buy lab-certified and authentic gemstones at the best prices.
