Yellow Sapphire

Yellow sapphire gemstone

Yellow sapphires occupy the second line in the rating of popularity right after blue sapphires. Like other varieties of sapphire, yellow sapphires have a high hardness, beautiful luster, and many interesting shades. Visually, these solar corundums are reminiscent of expensive yellow-colored diamonds. Cutters often use similar cutting methods that bring out their resemblance. Intelligently cut yellow corundums play in the light like sparkling flashes. Because of this, they are known as golden or sunny sapphires.

Hues variety and pricing

The price of untreated yellow sapphires directly depends on the size, clarity, and degree of saturation of the yellow color. Gems with a good cut of medium size, 3-5 carats, and visually clear stones range in price from $700 to 1500 per carat.

There are many shades of crystal, ranging from pale to bright. Among the rarest specimens are unheated golden-yellow crystals of natural origin. They are often given the trade name of the color golden. Sapphires of the "golden" category are very rarely found on the jewelry market in Sri Lanka and Madagascar. The price for such stones is from $1,500 to $3,000 per carat, depending on the clarity and size. Golden sapphires over 15 carats can be more expensive.

* The cost of yellow sapphires increases every year, these prices are averaged and current for 2017-2018.

Treatment

Yellow sapphires can be treated in a variety of ways to enhance their color and clarity. One common treatment is heat treatment, in which the sapphire is heated at high temperatures to improve its color. This process is permanent and stable, and is considered an acceptable industry practice. Another treatment is irradiation, in which the sapphire is exposed to radioactive material to change its color. This process is also permanent and stable, but it's important to disclose the treatment when selling the sapphire.

Mining locations

Yellow sapphires can be found in a variety of locations around the world. Some of the most notable sources of yellow sapphires include:

• Sri Lanka is known for producing some of the finest yellow sapphires in the world. The sapphires from this country are known for their rich, deep color and good clarity.
• Madagascar is a relatively new source of yellow sapphires. Sapphires from this country are known for their bright, lemon-yellow color.
• Thailand is another important source of yellow sapphires. The sapphires from this country are known for their good color and clarity.
• Australia: Yellow sapphires are also found in Australia, particularly in the states of Queensland and New South Wales.
• Tanzanian yellow sapphires are known for their unique orangey-yellow color.
• Montana: The Yogo sapphire mine in Montana, USA, is known for producing high-quality blue and yellow sapphires.
• Other countries: Yellow sapphires can also be found in other locations around the world, including Cambodia, Kenya, and Nigeria.