The most expensive sapphire is typically the Kashmir Sapphire, highly prized for its unique and intensely saturated cornflower blue color.
Understanding Sapphire Value
While Kashmir sapphires often command the highest prices, the value of any sapphire is determined by a combination of factors, with color being the most significant. The reference highlights two extremely valuable types: the cornflower blue Kashmir Sapphire and the very scarce orange-pink Padparadscha Sapphire.
Kashmir Sapphires: The Pinnacle of Blue
Kashmir sapphires originate from a small region in the Himalayas and are renowned for their exceptional "cornflower blue" hue. This color is often described as a velvety, soft blue with a slightly milky appearance, giving it a distinctive glow that sets it apart from other blue sapphires.
- Color: The defining characteristic is their vivid, intense, yet soft blue, often with a slight purplish secondary hue. This unique color saturation and velvety appearance are attributed to microscopic inclusions that scatter light beautifully.
- Rarity: The mines in Kashmir, which were primarily active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, are largely depleted, making these stones incredibly scarce. This limited supply drives their exceptionally high prices in the market.
- Historical Significance: Many legendary jewels feature Kashmir sapphires, adding to their allure and prestige.
Padparadscha Sapphires: A Rare Beauty
Another highly valuable and incredibly scarce type is the Padparadscha sapphire. Its name, derived from the Sinhalese word for "lotus blossom," perfectly describes its unique and delicate color.
- Color: Padparadscha sapphires exhibit a rare and beautiful blend of orange and pink, often described as a sunset hue. The ideal color is a balanced mix of both, without one color dominating too much.
- Rarity: True Padparadscha sapphires are among the rarest of all sapphire varieties. They are found predominantly in Sri Lanka, as well as in Madagascar and Tanzania, though the exact color definition can be a subject of debate among gemologists.
- Demand: Their unique color and extreme scarcity make them highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs, leading to premium prices.
Key Factors Influencing Sapphire Price
Beyond the specific type or
