1.60 Ct. Bluish Green Sapphire from Madagascar

This 1.60 carat asscher cut sapphire, with exact dimensions of 6.23 by 5.95 by 4.36 millimeters, presents a poised octagonal outline derived from the classic asscher geometry. The asscher cut here is executed as a square step cut with truncated corners, featuring concentric parallel facets on the crown and pavilion that create a hall of mirrors effect when viewed through the large open table. The cutter maintained an apparent table proportion that favors broad facet planes, producing pronounced step flashes rather than scatter brilliance, a deliberate choice to emphasize the gem s bluish green hue. Calculated against the average diameter of 6.09 millimeters, the pavilion depth results in a depth percentage of approximately 71.6 percent, a proportion that contributes to the stone s dark color intensity while minimizing windowing and preserving face up richness. The polish grade is excellent, with facet junctions rendered crisp and facet planes free from polish abrasion, enabling clean light return across the step facets.

From a clarity perspective this sapphire is graded very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, a practical grade for connoisseurs who prioritize natural character and durability. Under loupe and microscope inspection, the internal suite tends to manifest as small pinpoint crystals and very fine silk that do not disrupt transparency or the step facet reflections. These internal features are intrinsic to natural corundum from Madagascar, they authenticate origin and contribute subtly to the gem s depth of color when oriented optimally. No enhancement has been performed on this material, the stone is untreated, and so the color and internal chemistry are entirely native to the crystal as formed under geological conditions, a quality that collectors and technically minded clients appreciate for provenance and value stability.

The journey of this sapphire begins in the gem fields of Madagascar, where primary and secondary deposits yield a wide spectrum of corundum colors. In the field the rough crystal was visually oriented to exploit its natural zoning and to align the long axis with the most saturated color planes. During initial planning the cutter mapped the inclusions and color zoning using transmitted and reflected light, prioritizing an orientation that would retain maximum weight while securing a balanced table and pavilion geometry. The decision to execute an asscher cut was intentional, aimed at converting the rough s elongated habit into an octagonal step cut that amplifies color depth through repeated internal reflections. After precise preforming, the step facets were executed in a sequence designed to control facet angles within tight tolerances, producing the complementary crown and pavilion angles necessary to manage return light for a stone with a darker tone.

At The Natural Sapphire Company we document each stage of this process because the technical choices define the gem s character. The Madagascar origin, the lack of enhancement, the 1.60 carat weight, the asscher octagon outline, the very slightly included clarity at eye level, the dark color intensity, and the excellent polish are all attributes that informed the cutting strategy and final presentation. For settings the asscher s broad table and distinct step planes perform exceptionally in bezel, cathedral, and halo designs, where the directional flashes and deep bluish green color create a focused presence on the finger. For buyers seeking a sapphire with technical integrity, geological provenance, and deliberate craftsmanship, this piece represents a measured balance of natural material properties and lapidary precision, and it is offered with the care in documentation and service you expect from The Natural Sapphire Company.