Gemstones — Sapphire

Sapphire is a gemstone variety of the mineral corundum, which is an aluminum oxide (Al2O3). Along with ruby, sapphire belongs to the corundum mineral species. The name "sapphire" is usually used to describe blue corundum, while other colors are referred to as "fancy sapphires."Sapphires are typically found in igneous and metamorphic rocks that have undergone intense heat and pressure. They can also be found in alluvial deposits (riverbeds and ocean floors), where they have been transported by water and deposited in a new location.The beautiful blue color of sapphire is caused by the presence of trace amounts of iron and...