Sri Lanka is the world’s largest producer of sapphires over 100 carats.When hearing the word Sapphire many people immediately envision a stunning violet-blue gemstone because the word “Sapphire” is Greek for blue. For centuries, the Sapphire has been referred to as the ultimate blue gemstone. Since Ancient times the Blue Sapphire represented a promise of honesty, loyalty, purity and trust. To keep with this tradition Sapphires are one of the most popular engagement gemstones today. Sapphire is found in many parts of the world, but the most prized Sapphires are from Myanmar (Burma), Kashmir and Sri Lanka. Sapphires with highly saturated violet-blue color and “velvety” or “sleepy” transparency are more rare. The purer the blue of the Sapphire, the greater the price. However, many people find that the darker hues of Sapphire can be just as appealing.
Kings wore sapphires around their necks as a powerful defense from harm. They preserved the wearer from envy and attracted divine favor. They activate and manifest one’s life purpose and focus and karmic agreements for soul growth. Psychologically, the sapphire helps maintain inner peace and are good for one’s mental state. They calm nerves and promote mental clarity, helping with focus and concentration. They have also been used as remedies for mental and nervous disorders.
Sapphires are not only blue, they come in almost every color of the rainbow: pink, yellow, orange, peach, and violet colors. The most sought-after color fancy Sapphire is the rare and beautiful Padparadscha: a pink-orange corundum with a distinctive salmon color reminiscent of a tropical sunset. These ultra-rare, ultra-expensive stones are among the most coveted gems in the world.