This mesmerizing mineral (corundum) gem appears in a spectrum of colours except red. FANCY SAPPHIRE category includes colourless, green, pale-pink, yellow, violet, brown, grey and an orange-pink. PADPARADSCHA SAPPHIRE i.e, the orange-pink sapphire is the most sought after in its category, a glance is reminiscent of a tropical sunset. CABACHONS categorize the ones cut into smooth domes some of which produce ‘asterism’. It is a star like phenomenon where six rays stretch across the sapphire surface, hence aptly named STAR SAPPHIRE. BLUE SAPPHIRE is the strongest and abundantly available category and is available in a passionate range of grey blue to cobalt blue. Cornflower-blue sapphire is the best in this league. Confused? Recall the stunning cornflower blue eyes of Princess Diana. No wonder, her engagement ring by Garrards was a large oval sapphire surrounded by fourteen diamonds.

Sapphires are mostly heat treated to intensify their colour. Do not be fooled by synthetic look-alikes, Iolite, and Kayanite being sold as sapphires. Insist on reports from agencies like AGTA or AGL for natural sapphires. Being highly tough and durable they also provide industrial use.

Besides its alluring beauty, sapphire was held in great esteem by various civilizations for their associated beliefs. The Greek considered sapphire as gem of Apollo and was worn by all its worshippers. Egyptians believed powdered sapphire used as an eyewash would enhance vision. Cleopatra used it as eye-shadows! The Ten Commandments were originally believed to be inscribed on a sapphire tablet. Till about the Middle ages priests wore sapphire as protection against temptation of flesh. The medieval royalty valued them set in brooches and rings to ward off envy and harm. The 13th century French valued it for protection against poisonous reptiles. Simulated blue sapphire is the Zodiac birthstone of a September born. Sapphires unanimous appeal may be appreciated in the famous Imperial State Crown of Queen Victoria which carries two gorgeous sapphires. The 422.99 carat Logan Sapphire is one of the largest faceted gem quality blue sapphire. The 182 carat Star of Bombay is another consuming example. Both are exhibited in the National Museum , Washington D.C.

Sapphires have graced the attire of royalty for centuries and can reflect most style statements any day. Silks and crepes may be used in both Indian and western wear to complement the vibrancy of sapphire. Get inspired by designers like Emililo Pucci, Marc Jacobs, Raakesh Agarwal and Manish Malhotra. Splurge in Mac for make-up. I personally love the dial hues of Baume & Mercier watches. They best complement sapphire colours.

Sapphires may be set in various accessories since they are available in most cuts. They look great solo or in various diamond settings. Blue sapphire set in kundan with polki canvases design heritage and luxury at its best. I request jewellery designers to indulge men in sapphire cuff-links and kurta buttons. It would be heavenly to see a well-designed sapphire spectrum necklace. It shall be equivalent to the navratana neckpiece in terms of wearability. Go indulge yourself in super rich colours. Rest assured, any amount you pay shall be worth for its price and value.