When it comes to choosing the perfect gemstone for a special piece of jewelry, the options can be overwhelming. While diamonds in yellow gold seem like the classic choice for some people, others may be looking for something different. In this blog post, I will explore the difference between white sapphires and diamonds, two popular gemstone options, so that you can make an informed decision when selecting your perfect stone.
Key Takeaways
- White sapphires are diamond simulants that can be a great alternative to diamonds.
- Between white sapphire vs diamond, diamond is an obvious winner when it comes to being expensive.
- White sapphire can give the same shine and sparkle as new, and may last long as they are durable.
- The color of diamonds is typically a clear white giving a white glow, while sapphires can range from light to dark blue and tend to give rainbow flashes like fire.
What are White Sapphires?
White sapphires are diamond simulants that are made up of aluminum oxide. They are usually colorless and transparent, but colored sapphire can also come in a variety of shades ranging from white to yellow, pink, purple, and orange.
What's more? Natural white sapphires are much rarer than colored sapphires and other colored gemstones, and are often used as an alternative to diamonds in jewelry. They are also believed to bring peace and calmness to their wearer and are often used in an engagement ring. White sapphires sparkle and are also highly durable due to their hardness and can last a lifetime.
What are Diamonds?
A natural diamond is a precious gemstone and the hardest natural mineral known to man. They are formed deep within the earth's mantle, mined diamonds are most commonly found in Africa, Russia, Australia and many other parts of the world.
Not to mention, diamonds come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, they are all composed of a single element: carbon. Due to their extraordinary hardness, diamonds have been used as a symbol of purity, perfection, and love.
To top it all off, diamonds are prized for their ability create a unique and beautiful sparkle. Whether it is a big blinding or a smaller stone, the diamond remains popular for engagement rings and other jewelry pieces, and their value continues to be prized around the world.
Differences Between Diamond vs Sapphire
The glittering beauty of sapphires and diamonds have long captivated the hearts of many, but what are the major differences between these two precious gems? Read on to explore the difference between white sapphires and diamonds, from their durability and clarity to their cost.
Durability
First of all, when it comes to durability, diamonds are the hardest natural material on earth, with a hardness rating of 10 on the Mohs scale. While rare white sapphires are only rated 9 on the scale, making them slightly less durable than diamonds. However, white sapphires are still considered very durable, and a well-set white sapphire is likely to last for many years with proper care.
Brilliance
The brilliance of a gemstone is determined by its physical properties like cut, clarity, and color. More specifically, diamonds are known for exceptional brilliance, as they can be cut to maximize the refraction of light. White sapphires, however, are not quite as brilliant as diamonds, as they typically have fewer facets and a more muted sparkle. Their brilliance cannot be judged with a naked eye.
Color
The color of diamonds is typically a clear white giving a white glow, while sapphires can range from light to dark blue and tend to give rainbow flashes like fire. White sapphires, on the other hand, are naturally white, making them a great substitute as a diamond simulant, if you’re looking for a clear, bright stone at a lower cost.
Cost
On an important note, when it comes to cost, diamonds are typically much more expensive than white sapphires. This is because diamonds are rarer and more sought-after than white sapphires, making them more valuable. White sapphires, however, are still a beautiful, budget-friendly alternative to diamonds.
When it comes to choosing a special piece of jewelry, both diamonds and white sapphires can make a great choice. It’s important to consider all of the differences between the two gems before making a purchase. This will help you choose the perfect piece of jewelry that is sure to stand the test of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you still have any doubts about diamond vs white sapphire, I will answer the most frequently asked questions and hopefully they will clear your confusion.
Is white sapphire more expensive than diamonds?
No, white sapphire is not more expensive than diamonds. In fact, white sapphire is a much more affordable gemstone than diamonds. A well cut white sapphire is a vibrant and durable gemstone that sparkles and can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it an excellent choice for jewelry pieces.
Is white sapphire a fake diamond?
Yes, white sapphire is a fake diamond. In short, a white sapphire is a mineral composed of aluminum oxide and is chemically similar to natural diamonds, but it has different physical and optical properties. White sapphires are usually produced in laboratory conditions, and they are one of the most popular options as a simulated diamond. They look very similar to real diamonds, but they are not as hard, and they don't sparkle as much.
Are sapphires better than diamonds?
The answer depends on factors such as personal preference and budget of course! Sapphires are generally more affordable than diamonds and come in a variety of colors and shapes. Diamond is the hardest gemstone that has a higher Mohs hardness rating than a sapphire, making it more durable and less prone to scratching and chipping.
However, the traditional choice for diamond engagement ring remains the most popular gemstone for fine jewelry. Ultimately, whether diamond simulants are better than lab grown diamonds depends on the individual's taste and budget.
Why is a white sapphire not a diamond?
White sapphire is not a diamond because it is not composed of carbon like a diamond. It is composed of another mineral called corundum, which is only composed of aluminum oxide. While white sapphire can often look like a diamond, its chemical composition and structure are very different from that of purest form of a diamond.
White sapphire has a lower refractive index than diamonds, which means it does not sparkle in the same way. Additionally, white sapphires are not as hard or durable as diamonds, making them less suitable for use in engagement rings and other jewelry.
To Sum It Up
To sum it up, the difference between white sapphire and diamond is quite striking. While diamonds are one of the best known gemstones, white sapphire is a much more affordable and accessible alternative. Unlike diamonds, which are composed of pure carbon, white sapphire is actually composed of corundum, which is a crystalline form of aluminum oxide.
Additionally, diamond is the hardest natural material on earth, while white sapphire is much softer and more prone to scratches and damage. Lastly, diamonds are naturally created by nature and are extremely rare, while white sapphires can be manufactured in a laboratory. While both are beautiful and treasured gemstones, the differences between white sapphire and diamond are quite clear.