1.16 Ct. Blue Sapphire from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This transparent 1.16 carat oval blue sapphire presents a classic Ceylon hue, with precise dimensions of 6.34 by 5.16 by 4.25 millimeters. The stone has been cut in a mixed brilliant style, combining a faceting scheme that maximizes internal scintillation with step facets that emphasize color depth. At eye level the clarity is graded as very slightly included, a characteristic that contributes to its natural appearance without detracting from brilliance. The color intensity is medium, offering a lively mid tone of blue that reads as distinctly Ceylon rather than overly dark or muted. The polish is excellent, allowing light to pass cleanly across the surface and yielding crisp reflections from each facet. The sapphire has been heat treated, a common and stable enhancement for Sri Lankan material, and its origin from Ceylon reflects the storied geological history associated with that locale.

In a custom piece the oval proportions of this sapphire are especially versatile. The length to width ratio of roughly 1.23 produces a gently elongated oval that flatters both finger and pendant settings, creating a sense of elegance without appearing too long. Set as a solitaire in a low profile four prong or subtle bezel, the gem will present strong face up color and pronounced sparkle. In ring settings with a slightly raised gallery the pavilion depth of 4.25 millimeters can be accommodated without compromising wearability. The mixed brilliant cut responds particularly well to directional lighting, so design elements that allow light to enter and exit freely will enhance perceived size and vivacity. For pendants, a simple bail that holds the sapphire in a vertical orientation will showcase the full depth of color and allow viewers to appreciate the mixed facet pattern from multiple angles.

Pairings for complementary gemstones should prioritize contrast in both color and optical performance, to highlight the sapphire while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. Near colorless brilliant cut diamonds will provide crisp, neutral contrast, and a halo of small melee diamonds will amplify perceived size and draw attention to the sapphire core. For a softer, tonal approach, small pink sapphires or rose cut morganites can introduce a warm counterpoint, their pink hues harmonizing with the medium blue for an elegant, feminine palette. For bolder contrast consider small green tsavorites or chrome tourmalines, their vibrant greens set opposite the medium blue to create a lively complementary color interaction. When choosing side stones, match optical properties to the setting, selecting high transparency stones for tight pavé work and slightly softer textured cuts for vintage style designs. Metal choice will also influence the combination, with platinum or white gold emphasizing the cooler aspects of the blue, while yellow or rose gold will add warmth and make the color appear richer.

Practical considerations for a custom design incorporate durability, everyday wear, and the long term beauty of the gemstone. Sapphires rate highly on the Mohs scale for hardness and are well suited to daily wear in rings and bracelets, but settings should still protect the girdle from knocks. The excellent polish and the mixed brilliant cut make the gem particularly suitable for styles that exhibit faceting to viewers, such as halo rings, three stone compositions, and solitaire designs with cathedral shoulders. If the client prefers vintage inspiration, milgrain and openwork galleries will allow light to interact with the mixed facets while adding handcrafted detail. For an understated modern look, a low bezel in platinum will secure the stone and present a clean, architectural silhouette. Throughout the design process The Natural Sapphire Company can provide detailed setting mockups and optical studies to ensure that the final piece optimizes the sapphire dimensions, clarity, and color, resulting in a custom creation that balances aesthetics with functional longevity.