Magnificent Padparadscha Sapphire

It is called Padmaraga in Sri Lanka, but it is more commonly known as Padparadscha around the world. The name Padmaraga is derived from Sanskrit, meaning lotus (Padma) color (Raga), signifying the vibrant blend of pink and orange tones reflected by the gemstone. Original locality for Padparadscha sapphire is Sri Lanka (ancient Ceylon). Padparadscha sapphire tones vary from the color of a lotus which is more pink than orange, to the color of the sunset which is far more orange than pink. This ultra-rare mix of pink and orange is without a doubt the rarest color in a sapphire, making Padparadscha the king of all sapphires and is one of the most expensive gemstones.

The real Padparadscha sapphire is said to be found only in Sri Lanka, while some varieties are also available in Madagascar, Tanzania and Vietnam. The Sri Lankan sapphire is claimed to be the most precious of all and comes in mesmerizing shades of pink and orange. Sapphires in general are heat treated to improve clarity and colour saturation. However, a gemstone completely free of any treatment (Untreated/Unheated) is more valuable to the consumer in the long term since Unheated/Untreated gemstones are becoming rare everyday. However, even heated Padparadscha sapphires are quite expensive if they are good quality.

The beauty of Padparadscha sapphire is highly depended on personal preference, to decide which color of stone is the most pleasing to your eye. Nevertheless, Padparadscha is one absolutely stunning of a gem to pairing with its extraordinary rarity, remains as one of the most coveted gemstones in the world. Demand is so high and growing, thus the prices continue to climb every year. In 2017 in Hong Kong, Sotheby’s sold a Padaparadscha of 8.01ct, Sri Lankan origin, with no indication of heating, for USD 780,800. In 2018 Princess Eugenie got engaged to Jack Brooksbank with a Padparadscha sapphire flower ring creating an interesting appeal for them in the market.

Choosing the right Padparadscha sapphire must be a detailed and meticulous act. Different colors of the sapphire represent different values and fetch different prices, therefore expert advice must be sought before making a purchase. Only a trusted jeweler or gemmologist can give you the right guidance in selecting the original Padparadscha sapphire. We at Prestige Gems can guide you choose the perfect stone for your budget. After all, this could be one of your most prized possessions, and you must have nothing but the best!