Sapphire comes in a rainbow of colors and is part of the corundum mineral family. This mineral is naturally colorless but will color when trace elements are introduced into the crystal's chemistry.

The most valued hued corundum is the blue variety, especially those  Kashmir in origin that feature royal blue color and a satin-like aesthetic.

Ceylon Sapphire from Sri Lanka are known for their unique cornflower blue and were a staple Art Nouveau jewelry. 

Another valuable form of sapphire is the orange-pink variety known as Padparadscha. This pinkish gem is a rare find and is generally reserved for more couture pieces.

Naturally included, the sapphire has internal evidence of its growth under intense heat and pressure. Typical inclusions are fingerprints, fractures, mineral inclusions, color-banding, and hexagonal growth patterns - all evidence of a natural stone. 

Rutile needles are also a common inclusion in corundum that cause the stellar phenomenon asterism  Some unusual examples of sapphire will exhibit color-change where the stone will shift in body color when exposed to different light sources.

Corundum is considered the third hardest mineral making it a very durable stone to be used in everyday jewelry. Sapphires are typically cut to display color, so most transparent material will be faceted as a gemstone. Other common uses for sapphire are cabochons, carved intaglio, or bead jewelry.

Sapphire had a reprisal in popularity during the 1980s into the new millennia when Prince Charles gifted Princess Diana a remarkable 12.00 carat Ceylon sapphire cluster that later became Kate Middleton's engagement ring.

Sapphire is the traditional birthstone for September and celebrates the fifth and forty-fifth wedding anniversaries.