Further Details
Origin | London |
---|---|
Gemstones and Other Materials | 2.56cts Ceylon padparadscha oval sapphire, unheated, with GRS certificate 2 x pear shape diamonds weighing 0.50cts in total |
Condition Report | New |
Setting | 18ct rose gold and platinum with maker's mark and London assay marks |
Weight description | 3.7 grams |
Dimensions | UK finger size L, US size 5.75 Head 8.5mm x 15mm |
SKU | 127249-BM |
Directors Notes
Padparadscha sapphires are a particularly special variety of sapphire, being the rarest of colours that sapphires are naturally found in. True padparadschas are a unique blend of pink and orange, exhibiting elements of both these colours in the same stone. Historically found only in Ceylon, the name ‘padparadscha’ (pronounced pad-per-add-sha) is derived from the ancient Sanskrit word ‘padmaraga’ referring to the colour of a lotus flower. However, most lotus blossoms are actually more pink than orange so today it is often thought of as a mix of lotus pink and sunset orange. Due to their rarity these stones are amongst the most expensive in the world. As with all gemstones, those that are certified untreated will attract a premium and, like blue sapphires, many padparadschas are heated to improve their colour. So gems such as this one which have received no treatment are even more rare and desirable. Today orangey-pink sapphires are found in Vietnam, Tanzania and Madagascar, however purists believe only those found in their original location of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) should be termed true padparadschas. The spotlight was turned on these beautiful gems when Princess Eugenie became engaged with one in 2018. As with all sapphires, padparadschas are hard and durable which makes them ideal for setting in rings, particularly ones which will be worn every day such as an engagement ring.