The history of white sapphires is extremely interesting and would fascinate all gemstone admirers. White sapphires are colorless and one of the rarest forms of sapphire, untouched by trace elements. Therefore, they are an excellent alternative to diamonds with outstanding metaphysical healing properties. Also, they are an affordable option.
Most white sapphires are yellow or grey crystals that undergo lab treatment to get a colorless finish. However, finding a natural white sapphire is quite rare though most of the natural sapphires get mined in Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and the western parts of the United States. So, if you’re unaware of this exceptional alternative, continue reading to find out more!
History of White Sapphire
Sapphires have had a long voyage through time. They get mined in different parts of the world from Alluvial deposits in countries like Australia, Cambodia, India, Kenya, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Madagascar, Tanzania, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Burma, and Malawi. However, they come in different colors, shapes, and sizes across regions.
But they are predominantly produced in Sri Lanka and are white or colorless crystals. Subsequently, when we trace the origin of white sapphires, it is believed to have evolved in ancient Greece thousands of years ago. Presumably, on the Island of Naxos. There are several myths, legends, and folklore that revolve around the origin of white sapphires.
These gems also go by the name leuco sapphires, which was derived from the Greek term leykós (white), associated with Apollo, the God of light. However, others claim that the name is derived from French, Latin, Hebrew, and Sanskrit words. On the whole, it’s considered the ‘stone of Gods’, which means ‘sacred stone’.
In astrological terms, white sapphires have various physical and spiritual benefits. Since time immemorial, these gems have been worn by nobility, including kings, queens, and scholars and are believed to increase success, luxury, wealth and happiness.
Today, these gemstones have gained popularity as engagement ring stones for eternal marital bliss.
Facts About White Sapphire
1. White sapphires are long-lasting and affordable.
White sapphires are the most rigid and durable kind of sapphire variety, having a value of 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes them a perfect option for everyday wear. Interestingly they are denser than diamonds.
2. The color of white sapphire is not ‘white.’
White sapphire is not entirely white. Instead, it’s a colorless stone with no traces of minerals and is extremely hard to find. In addition, they have a hexagonal-shaped chemical structure different from the diamond’s C- shape.
3. White sapphires are mostly lab cultivated.
Most of the white sapphires found in the jewelry stores used for ornamentation are primarily lab created and not naturally grown.
4. Easy identification of color and clarity than diamonds
We can identify the color quality and clarity of white sapphires with the naked eye—the less the yellow and greyish tones, the better the quality of the gemstone.
5. Recoups bodily ailments
White sapphires are an excellent choice for the physical body and also help restore tranquillity and peace of mind. The gemstone also boosts the three types of immunity (innate, adaptive, and passive immunity) and builds overall health.
6. You can stop your nightmares by wearing a white sapphire
If recurring nightmares are a problem, then you may consider wearing a white sapphire as a ring or a pendant around your neck. Certain properties of the stone help in warding off evil energies and bad dreams.
7. As Engagement Rings
The white sapphire engagement ring is currently on trend for those wanting an unconventional wedding ring. This is also a great alternative for those who want a diamond but don’t want to spend as much.
White Sapphire Varieties
From ancient times sapphires have been known for their beauty and cost amongst many other valuable gemstones. Especially those with shades of green, pink, blue, and white or colorless are considered fancy sapphires.
White sapphires are the rarest on the list as they are primarily produced in the laboratory and are hard to find naturally. There are two types of white sapphire that you must know of if you intend to buy jewelry made of this stone:
- Natural white sapphires
- Lab-created white sapphires
1. Natural white sapphires
These are rarer versions of the sapphire variety untouched by earth’s trace elements. They are not particularly white; rather, they are colorless crystals. As a part of the corundum family of minerals, they compose the metal aluminum oxide and are free from iron, titanium, magnesium, vanadium, or chromium found in most blue sapphires.
It might be challenging to identify the difference between a white or a colorless sapphire, unlike diamonds, white topaz, and cubic zirconia. One test to find out a natural white sapphire is to turn off the lights and hit a ray of torchlight on the gemstone. If it’s real, it will reflect the color of the stone.
The natural white sapphire undergoes a chemical treatment, which gives it greater clarity and brilliance. Also, different cuts like step cut, brilliant cut, mixed cut, and cabochon cut add more intricate detail to the stone. These gems are primarily formed in alluvial deposits.
2. Lab-created white sapphires
This is the most popular white sapphire type in many jewelry stores. They are classified under Synthetic Corundum and produced by a method called flame fusion to get a natural look. Only a keen observer with ample knowledge can spot the difference.
Alternatively, these are more affordable than natural white sapphires. However, despite this fact, the gemstones do not have the same attributes as the natural variety. The production process involves a lot of heat, intense pressure, and sometimes chemicals. There are different names given to lab-grown white sapphires, such as;
- Synthetic White Sapphire
- Lab-created White Sapphire
- Lab-grown White Sapphire
- Man-made White Sapphire
- Cultured White Sapphire
- Created White Sapphire
- Above-Earth White Sapphire
- Above-Ground White Sapphire
Apart from this, they are sometimes called fake white sapphires. However, a good cut, clarity and carat weight can enhance the quality of the finished product.
Final Thoughts
The history of white sapphire has a long chronicle of events. From being used as a talisman for its extraordinary physical properties, metaphysical healing, and protection from evil, to various astrological benefits.
At the end of the day, if you feel a white sapphire may align with your highest good and all the desires that you wish to manifest, then it is best to seek guidance from a renowned astrologer. If the stone vibes with your astrological chart, you can surely benefit a great deal from this lovely gemstone.
Also Read
- History of Blue Zircon
- History of Amethyst
- History of Aquamarine
- History of Blue Sapphire
- History of Brown Diamonds
- History of Diamond
- History of Black Diamond
- History of Blue Diamond
- History of Orange Zircon
- History of Pink Sapphire
- History of Pink Tourmaline
- History of Ruby
- History of Tanzanite
- History of Tourmaline
- History of Tsavorite
- History of Turquoise
- History of Yellow Sapphire
- History of Moonstone
- History of South Sea Pearl
- History of Tahitian Pearl
- History of Citrine
- History of London Blue Topaz
