Inclusions are an integral part of any gemstone’s existence. Inclusions are naturally occurring puny entities in gemstones that come in different shapes and sizes. Unlike impurities that curtail the value of gemstones, inclusions may amp up the allure of gemstones when present in the right quantity. Sapphires are one of the few gem varieties that enclose almost all possible types of inclusions that prevail in gemstones.
When evaluating the quality of natural sapphires, gem experts consider clarity grades to determine the exact value. For example, a light blue sapphire with no inclusion or eye clean is considered the finest quality. Whereas, sapphires with needles like inclusions or color zoning are usually dejected by most gem enthusiasts. Before someone ropes in exorbitant gemstones like sapphires, it’s pivotal to learn in advance about inclusions in sapphires so that the right evaluation of the price can be made.
We have crafted this blog post that encapsulates the most technical and articulate information on inclusions in sapphires. We will state crucial information like types of inclusions, why understanding inclusions in sapphires is important and the role inclusions play in the appearance of sapphires. Let’s get started!
Why Is It Essential to Understand Inclusions in Sapphires?
There are umpteen reasons to have sound knowledge of all inclusion types in sapphires. Some of the top reasons are: –
Quality and Value Assessment: Inclusions significantly affect a sapphire’s quality and value. While some inclusions are acceptable and even add character, excessive or prominent inclusions can diminish the stone’s clarity, brilliance, and overall appeal, thereby lowering its market value.
Authenticity Verification: Inclusions can help gemologists determine whether a sapphire is natural or synthetic. Natural sapphires typically have inclusions that are unique to the geological processes that formed them, while synthetic sapphires often have different types of inclusions or are more uniformly clear.
Treatment Identification: Many sapphires undergo treatments, such as heat treatment, to enhance their color or clarity. Understanding inclusions helps in identifying whether a sapphire has been treated. Certain treatments may alter or reduce inclusions, and knowing this can impact how the stone is evaluated.
Durability Considerations: Some inclusions can make a sapphire more prone to damage or breakage. Understanding the nature and location of inclusions can help in determining the stone’s durability and suitability for various types of jewelry.
Aesthetic Appeal: Inclusions can also affect the visual appeal of a sapphire. Some inclusions, like silk, can create desirable optical effects such as asterism (a star-like pattern), which is valued in star sapphires. Understanding these inclusions allows buyers to appreciate the unique beauty of each stone.
Informed Purchasing Decisions: For consumers, understanding inclusions ensures they make informed decisions when buying sapphires. They can better assess whether the price reflects the stone’s true quality and decide whether they are comfortable with the inclusions present.
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Types of Inclusions in Sapphires
Color Zoning
Color zoning in sapphires refers to the uneven distribution of color intensity within the gemstone.
This phenomenon occurs during the crystal’s growth process, often due to variations in the concentration of trace elements that give the sapphire its hue.
Why does color zoning happen?
Changing growth conditions: As the sapphire crystal forms, fluctuations in temperature, pressure, or the availability of coloring agents can lead to variations in color intensity.
Crystal structure: The hexagonal crystal structure of sapphires can sometimes influence the distribution of color-causing impurities.
How does color zoning affect the value of a sapphire?
Generally, color zoning is considered a less desirable characteristic in sapphires. It can detract from the overall uniformity and beauty of the stone. However, there are exceptions:
Unique patterns: In some cases, color zoning can create visually interesting patterns or contrasts that add character to the sapphire.
Rarity: If the color zoning is rare or particularly striking, it can actually increase the price of yellow sapphire.
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Feather Like Inclusions
Feather inclusions in sapphires are a common type of internal feature that can affect both the appearance and value of the gemstone. These inclusions resemble small, wispy cracks or fractures within the sapphire and often appear in a feathery pattern, hence the name. They can range from being nearly invisible to quite noticeable, depending on their size, location, and the transparency of the sapphire.
Feather inclusions can look like fine, thread-like structures or small, cloud-like formations within the gemstone.The visibility and size of feather inclusions can affect the value of the sapphire. Larger or more visible inclusions can reduce the stone’s clarity and brilliance, lowering its market value.
In some cases, feather inclusions can weaken the structural integrity of the sapphire, especially if they are large or extend to the surface. This might make the gemstone more susceptible to damage during setting or wear.
Cavities
Cavities in pink sapphires refer to hollow spaces or voids within the crystal structure of the gemstone. These can occur naturally during the formation of the sapphire or as a result of treatment processes.
Natural cavities can form due to trapped gases or fluids during crystal growth, or from the dissolution of inclusions. Some cavities are created or enlarged through heat treatment processes used to enhance sapphire color and clarity.
Large or numerous cavities can affect a sapphire’s durability and value, while small, well-placed cavities may have minimal impact.
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Liquid Inclusions
Liquid inclusions are microscopic cavities within a purple sapphire gemstone that contain a liquid. In sapphires, these tiny pockets can offer fascinating insights into the stone’s formation and geological history.
Formation and Composition
Trapped during growth: As a sapphire crystal grows, it can trap tiny droplets of liquid, gas, or other minerals. These inclusions become “frozen in time,” providing a record of the conditions under which the stone formed.
Common components: Liquid inclusions in sapphires often contain water, carbon dioxide, and other volatile substances. The specific composition can vary depending on the geological environment where the sapphire originated.
Significance and Importance
Natural indicator: The presence of carbon dioxide fluid inclusions in metamorphic sapphires is a strong indication that the stone has not been heat-treated. This is important because heat treatment can alter the color and clarity of sapphires.
Geological clues: Studying the composition and properties of liquid inclusions can help geologists understand the temperature, pressure, and chemical conditions that existed during the sapphire’s formation.
Unique beauty: While inclusions are often considered flaws in gemstones, they can also add a unique character and charm. Some inclusions, such as rutile needles or silk inclusions, can enhance the beauty of a sapphire.
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