A delicate and feminine gem, the sunset-colored Padparadscha Sapphire is the perfect symphony of reds, pinks, and yellows all in one. One of the rarest varieties within the sapphire family, these gems get their name from the Sanskrit word Padmaraga, which translates to Padma meaning lotus and Raga meaning color, thus the lotus colored gemstone. One of the most beautiful gemstones on the market originally mined in Srilanka, their exclusivity adds to their fascination.
| Color: | Pinkish Orange, Orangy Pink, with a hint of red and yellow |
|---|---|
| Finger: | Worn as a ring with the gemstone touching the body. |
| Neck: | Worn as a pendant, with the gemstone touching the body |
| Metal: | Yellow gold and rose gold work as a great combination with the delicate colors of the Padparadscha. |
This peachy pink sapphire known to represent the zodiac of the Libra is often used as an alternative to the classic Blue Sapphire from the month of September. With colors that will undoubtedly reflect regal jewels, the Padparadscha is a treat to the visual senses.
Although these lotus-colored gemstones are extremely rare, their subtle color with intense saturation are a delicate mix of allure and strength. These Orange Sapphire gemstones connected to the planet Mars promote proactive action.
Padparadschas get their splendor from their unmatched color, making color key when understanding the quality aspect of these wonders.
Color: A unique mix that brings together pinks and oranges in perfect harmony, the intensity of the gem's color lays the foundation for its demand. Subtle Pinkish Oranges to a more vividly colored Orangy pink, these gems come in a range of colors. These special sunset gems that boast a vivid and uniform hue tend to be a coveted choice.
Clarity: More often than not these gems have subtle, lighter hues that have a radiant shimmer. Being a transparent gemstone, internal features tend to stand out more visibly. When it comes to a padparadscha sapphire, eye-clean gemstones with no visible features to the naked eye sell for higher values, translating to more valuable gemstones. Color often trumps clarity, in terms of value and demand.
Cut: The cut of these rare lotus padparadscha sapphires stone tends to always be irregular in order to save maximum weight from the rough. Gems often have deeper pavilions and are cut as ovals and cushions to maximize this return. It is however important that a good quality padparadscha has good symmetry making the gemstone visually appealing.
Carat Weight: A highly desired gemstone that forms in small sizes, padparadscha over 2 carats is a rare sight. Padparadscha gemstones over the 5-carat mark with a uniform hue and an eye-clean appearance can oftentimes even reach the auctions.
Origin: Mined originally in Srilanka, these gems are now found in different regions across the world. Srilanka today produces the occasional top-quality gem, although commercial gems mined from Srilanka are heat-treated to bring out their rich colors. Vietnam and Tanzania are also hubs that occasionally produce padparadscha gems with desirable lotus colors. Madagascar, a big gemstone reservoir, tends to produce more pinkish gems with a slight hint of orange that undergo minimal amounts of heat treatment.
Pricing: A blend of the colors of the lotus and the surreal sunset, the padparadscha sapphire is a genuine mix of the ruby and the yellow sapphire into one beautiful gem. The value of these gemstones are dependent on its quality features and the treatments done to the gem.
Treatment: Treatments are a part of the industry and when it comes to padparadscha sapphires heat treatments are a commonality. Understanding the difference of heat and beryllium treatments is key. Gemstones are heat-treated to bring out the natural colors of the gemstones and although accepted by the industry, must be disclosed, as they tend to lower the value and price of the gemstone. Beryllium treatments on the other hand are a more intrusive technique and are often sold without disclosure but have a much lower value. Unheated, untreated padparadscha sapphires tend to sell for over 50% more in terms of value.
Investing in a padparadscha sapphire with or without heat, an even body color, an eye clean appearance, and asymmetrical well-fashioned piece will undoubtedly be an investment for the future. Padparadscha sapphires can often sell for values between Rs 40,000 to Rs 6,00,000 A carat.
Used popularly in millennial jewelry pieces, Padparadschas are becoming a favorite, especially in engagement rings. The marriage of colors represents the delicate features of a woman while also portraying the enduring woman behind it all. Easily paired with Rose golds and floral halo settings, the vivid colors of the Padparadscha tends to stand out. At 9 on the scale of hardness, these sunset sapphires are a sturdy choice for everyday jewelry.
DID YOU KNOW:
Princess Eugine’s Padparadscha Sapphire engagement ring has created a stir in the market. The approximately 3-carat gemstone has beautiful feminine colors, paired with the flower halo that surrounds the gemstone and is estimated to be worth between $25,000 to $45,000.
Caring for your natural Padparadscha Sapphire is imperative. Gemstones over time tend to attract dirt and grime and need an occasional bath.
A safe way to clean your padparadscha sapphire jewelry is:
Bowl is to catch gemstones that might come out of their setting but can be returned to the jeweler to be reset.
Do not use any harsh chemicals, light hand soap will work
Jewelry pieces set with enamel and Kundan work should never be washed or put into an ultrasonic machine.
