Many couples consider a white sapphire as a diamond alternative because it is a natural stone. However, if ethical considerations are important, lab-created sapphire or moissanite are better options.
Sapphires are a precious gemstone of the corundum mineral family. They are a great choice for engagement rings because they look White sapphires vs diamonds very similar to diamonds. Unlike diamonds, however, they are not subject to conventional grading standards.
1. They are a natural alternative to lab-created diamonds
Sapphires are known for their deep blue hues, but they come in a variety of colors including white. This color is achieved through the addition of trace elements such as titanium, chromium, and vanadium.
They rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness and offer a silvery sparkle that rivals diamonds and moissanite. They are also less brittle than diamonds.
Like all gemstones, sapphires have the potential to be treated with heat to improve their clarity and color. This treatment is safe and permanent.
Moissanite is a lab-created gem that can look similar to a diamond, but it’s not as clear or as durable as a natural or synthetic sapphire. The difference in cost between natural and lab-created sapphires is minimal, and the choice depends on your budget and preferences.
2. They are more affordable
Whether you are buying sapphires for their beauty, durability or metaphysical properties, they offer an affordable alternative to diamonds. This is especially true if you are looking for a colorless gemstone.
While natural blue sapphires are incredibly expensive, white ones cost significantly less. In fact, you can find a high quality 1 carat oval sapphire VVS2 clarity for about $1200, while you will spend close to $30,000 on a comparable diamond.
The difference in price is also due to the lack of conventional grading standards for sapphires. Unlike diamonds, which are graded according to the four C’s, sapphires are usually only accompanied by their color, purity and carat weight. This means that they can appear cloudy or milky if they get dirty, which detracts from their beauty.
3. They are more transparent
As opposed to coloured sapphires, which often have inclusions that scatter light, white sapphires are completely clear. This makes them more transparent and easier to see through.
In comparison, diamonds have a higher rate of dispersion. This means that they sparkle in a rainbow of colours when seen from different angles. This feature is called scintillation, and it’s what gives diamonds their reputation as being the most brilliant gemstone on earth.
So while both diamonds and sapphires are incredibly beautiful, it’s important to understand the differences between them before making a purchasing decision. This is especially true when it comes to deciding between natural and lab-created diamonds, white sapphires, and moissanite. Having this knowledge will help you make the best choice for your needs!
4. They are more durable
Although sapphires are known for their blue variety, this gem also comes in a range of other colors including white. This colorless sapphire does not sparkle in the same way as a diamond but it is a great option for people who are looking for a durable stone.
White sapphires are incredibly durable, scoring 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes them a perfect choice for engagement rings and other pieces of jewelry that will be worn daily.
However, if you are looking for a gemstone with a brighter, more eye-catching sparkle, then you should consider moissanite. Moissanite has a higher brilliance refractive index and fire dispersion than both white sapphires and diamonds. Additionally, it is ethically sourced and does not contain any of the controversial elements found in some of its natural counterparts.
5. They are more ethically sourced
Unlike diamonds, white sapphires can be mined without supporting conflict or environmental destruction. This makes them an ethical alternative to diamonds for engagement rings. Additionally, the fact that they are often less expensive than diamonds means they are more likely to be sold by reputable dealers who can trace their origins.
Like blue sapphires, natural white sapphires can be found in a variety of locations around the world. They are a popular option for those wanting a more affordable, natural alternative to a diamond.
Sapphires are typically treated White Sapphire Vs Diamond to improve clarity and color saturation. However, since there is no standard grading system for sapphires, it can be difficult to determine whether a gem has been professionally treated or not. Moissanite, on the other hand, is an entirely lab-created stone.
6. They are more rare
Natural white sapphires are a rare and beautiful gemstone. However, they do not sparkle as much as diamonds. This is because they reflect and refract light differently. While diamonds reflect a mix of white and rainbow brilliance, sapphires refract only white light.
This is why diamonds are more expensive than sapphires. Natural white sapphires are also less common than blue sapphires.
White sapphires are a variety of corundum — an aluminum oxide mineral. They are found in a wide range of locations, including Sri Lanka, Thailand, Australia, and China. They are a rare gem that is prized for its beauty and durability. In addition, they are a great alternative to diamonds for engagement rings. They are perfect for those who want a stunning, ethically sourced stone at a more affordable price.
7. They are more rare than diamonds
Diamonds may be (stereotypically) considered more beautiful than any other gem or rock on Earth, but there are other rare gemstones that are even more beautiful. These include opals, alexandrite, tanzanite, and gem grade Painite. These stones are more valuable than diamonds because they have a better color and clarity.
Conclusion
White sapphires, also known as safed pukhraj, are a form of corundum that can range from colorless to blue depending on trace elements. They are incredibly durable and rank 9 on the Moh’s scale of hardness. But, they lack the fire and brilliance of a well-cut diamond. This is why many people choose to buy a diamond rather than a white sapphire. However, a well-cut sapphire can still look quite beautiful, too. This oval-cut sapphire in a halo setting is a gorgeous example.
