Sapphires are some of the most sought after precious gems, and are derived from the mineral corundum. As sapphire is remarkably hard, and moreover looks stunning, it is widely used in watch crystals, jewellery and infrared optical components.
Sapphire can be used as natural sapphire or as synthetic sapphire. Natural sapphires are generally found in blue, but they also are found in grey and black. Even colourless sapphires are in existence naturally. The white sapphire is very rare and exquisite. The blue colour of most natural sapphire is due to the substitutions of iron and titanium that are present in the oxide, crystal lattice. There are also colour change sapphires that are purple under incandescent light and transform into blue when outdoors. Some colour shift sapphires also change from pink when outdoors to a greenish tinge under incandescent indoor light. The star sapphire is another variety, which displays asterism, whereby light is reflected in the form of a star. Sapphires are available in a variety of stunning colours, and this is due to the presence of various chemicals like iron and chromium. Colours include yellow, green, pink, orange and brown. Colourless sapphires are often used as a substitute to diamonds in jewellery. The most exquisite and expensive sapphire is the salmon-coloured padparadscha that is found in parts of Africa, Vietnam and Sri Lanka.
Synthetic sapphires measure up to several inches in diameter and come in cylindrical crystal boules. Synthetic sapphire is five times stronger than glass and hence it is used for synthetic sapphire windows. These sapphires are used for various laser applications as well such as the Ti:Sapphire Laser that uses its wavelength to tune the infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Sapphires are also used in rings, earrings, necklaces and other kinds of jewellery. Their stunning effulgence and exquisite appearance make sapphire jewellery hugely popular. They are also used as birthstones and are often said to bring good luck and fortune. Sapphire earrings are particularly popular and make wonderful gifts.
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