16.45 Ct. Blue Rough Sapphire from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This entry is a semi transparent blue sapphire, weighing 16.45 carats, presented in a rough shape, with dimensions of 16.30 x 6.71 x 5.65 mm, a clarity grade of slightly included when evaluated at eye level, medium intense color intensity, and an excellent polish on its external surfaces. The stone has no formal faceted cut, cut not applicable, and it has not been subjected to any enhancement. Origin is Ceylon Sri Lanka, a region long recognized for producing sapphires with a characteristic combination of brightness and lively blue hues. The overall profile and the untreated status should be considered by gem specialists and purchasers when assessing suitability for a particular setting or cutting plan, as the existing transparency and surface quality already display attributes desirable in finished gemstones.

Physically the sapphire presents a pleasing balance between transparency and internal structure. Slight inclusions are visible at eye level, consistent with a slightly included clarity grade, yet they do not obscure the gem or significantly interrupt its depth of color. The medium intense color is distributed with reasonable evenness, allowing for a clear perception of blue resonance throughout the body of the stone. Excellent polish on the natural facets and the exterior surface enhances surface reflections, providing crisp light return where the surface plane is smooth. The rough shape, combined with the stone dimensions and the semi transparent nature, suggests multiple options for further work, including faceting to maximize brilliance, or a cabochon style to emphasize the color and internal texture, depending on the desired final appearance.

Under natural daylight, particularly in cool northern light, this sapphire will present a clear, vivid blue, with good mid tone presence and a perception of depth due to the semi transparent body. Diffused daylight softens surface glare while promoting even color presentation, making inclusions less conspicuous and allowing the medium intense tone to read consistently across the stone. In direct bright sunlight, the stone will exhibit stronger surface brilliance and increased contrast between bright reflections and the deeper blue body color, producing lively scintillation at the surface. Under warm incandescent light sources, the stone will take on a slightly warmer blue appearance, with the blue appearing richer and potentially deeper in saturation, while cooler LED sources tend to accentuate the stone s cooler blue facets and can make internal features more apparent. Candlelight and other low temperature, low intensity light sources will reduce overall brightness, placing emphasis on body color and internal glow rather than surface sparkle. Because sapphires can show pleochroism, that is different colors from different angles, slight variations in hue may be noted as the stone is rotated under any illumination, with subtle shifts governed by the orientation of internal crystal structure relative to the viewer.

Because this sapphire is natural and untreated, provenance from Ceylon Sri Lanka adds context to its gemological character, as Ceylon material frequently presents a lighter, more cornflower or Mediterranean blue range than stones from other sources. No enhancement means the color and clarity are inherent, and this stability under heat and light is important for long term wear. For those considering cutting, the present dimensions and rough form will determine yield and the most appropriate cutting style to balance weight retention with optical performance. Faceting can increase apparent brilliance and scintillation, particularly if pavilion angles and table size are optimized, while a skilled cutter will also aim to minimize the visual impact of the slight inclusions by placing facets to divert attention from internal features. The excellent polish already present will serve as a strong starting point for any further cutting or finishing, and experienced lapidaries will evaluate orientation to exploit the best color plane and natural crystal symmetry.

For practical use and care, the sapphire s inherent hardness and toughness make it suitable for a wide range of settings including rings, pendants, and earrings, subject to professional mounting techniques that protect edges and minimize exposure to potential knocks. Cleaning is straightforward using mild detergent, warm water, and a soft brush, with professional ultrasonic or steam cleaning acceptable provided the stone has no surface reaching fractures or filled features, which does not apply in this untreated specimen. Documentation and accurate description are included with the stone to assist in appraisal and design decisions, and The Natural Sapphire Company provides provenance information and can advise on options for cutting, setting, and certification. This sapphire represents a natural, untreated example of Ceylon material with measurable weight, consistent medium intense blue color, and qualities that respond distinctly across different lighting environments, making it an informative choice for collectors and jewelers seeking a gem with identifiable character and straightforward care requirements.