When we refer to investment gems, we always refer to these unheated gems. In any case, when considering a sapphire of substantial value the potential buyer should always insist on a gemmological certificate, issued by a well-known gemmological laboratory.


Like diamonds, sapphires are graded using the 4 C's (colour, cut, clarity and carat weight). In their case, colour and clarity are more important than the other characteristics ( see Burma and Kashmir sapphires).


Sapphire, the celestial gemstone, has been treasured for thousands of years. For the Buddhists, sapphires denoted friendship and faithfulness. The ancient Persians believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire and its reflection coloured the sky. Sapphire has long symbolised truth, sincerity and faithfulness, making it one of the most sacred and sought after precious stones.