All of this contributes to its low price. They are considered low-grade because they are abundant and mined in large quantities. Professionals consider blacks sapphires low-grade, low-quality gemstones.

Why Aren't Black Sapphires Considered Valuable? If anything, the hardness of black sapphire makes it the perfect stone for everyday wear.

Though it is harder than onyx, it serves as a great look-alike.

Like other sapphires, it scores a 9 on the Moh's hardness scale.īlack sapphire is often confused with onyx because of its dark color. The color ranges from blue-black to gray.īlack sapphire is exceptionally durable. They range from translucent to opaque but don't reflect much light in either case. These stones appear to absorb any light that hits them. Black Sapphire: What Is It?īlack sapphire is an aluminum oxide mineral that usually forms in crystals. The darker the color, the more valuable the gemstone. The different colors are the result of varying levels of trace minerals.īlue sapphire is, without a doubt, the most sought after, ranging from light blue to dark blue. There are also natural multicolored stones known as Parti sapphires. You will not find any red sapphires since red corundum produces rubies.įancy sapphires are any gem-quality sapphires that are not blue or colorless. Sapphires occur naturally in blue, pink, yellow, orange, purple, black, and colorless variations. Sapphire is very hard and comes in many colors besides blue. Read on to learn more about black sapphires and why they are a great choice for jewelry. It presents the same striking look as other black gemstones with the bonus of being very durable. Though blue sapphire is most famous, black sapphire has been gaining popularity for its unique beauty. You've definitely heard of blue sapphire, but you may be wondering, 'what is black sapphire?' Corundum is a crystalline form of aluminum oxide with bits of other elements that create a wide array of colors. Sapphire is a popular gemstone and a valuable variety of the mineral corundum.

Black sapphire earrings