2.23 Ct. Blue Sapphire from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This cushion shaped blue sapphire offered by The Natural Sapphire Company weighs 2.23 carats, and measures 7.61 by 7.56 by 4.34 millimeters, with a calculated depth of approximately 57 percent. The cutter chose a mixed brilliant cut to balance strong face up brilliance with optical depth, and the gem exhibits an excellent polish that maximizes sparkle and surface crispness. Its color is described as dark intensity, a saturated deep blue typical of fine Ceylon sapphires, and the stone has been heat treated, a stable and widely accepted enhancement that improves tone and clarity without compromising the inherent structure of corundum. The clarity is recorded as very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, which indicates that the stone appears clean to an unaided eye in most viewing conditions while still retaining natural fingerprint and mineral inclusion characteristics that confirm its natural origin. Taken together, these parameters describe a gem with attractive presence on the finger, substantial face up size for its weight, and the optical performance buyers expect from premium Sri Lankan material.

From a gemological perspective the mixed brilliant cut and the cushion outline work together to showcase the blue saturation while allowing well controlled light return. Mixed brilliant cutting typically combines a brilliant facet arrangement on the crown with a modified pavilion that helps preserve weight and color, making it particularly well suited to stones from Ceylon where the most coveted material often presents with slightly lower extinction and excellent hue. The measured depth at about 57 percent falls into a range that balances fire and light performance with color concentration, meaning the sapphire displays deep, velvety blue flashes without appearing windowed or overly dark in direct light. The very slightly included clarity grading, evaluated at eye level, is an important point for educated buyers, because it signals that the stone retains natural internal features such as tiny crystalline inclusions or fine silk that are best observed under magnification, and these inclusions do not detract from the gem when set and worn. The excellent polish further enhances facet contrast and crispness, increasing perceived brightness and allowing the eye to appreciate the stones richness in a variety of lighting conditions.

Origin and treatment carry measurable influence on both desirability and long term value, and this sapphires provenance from Ceylon Sri Lanka is significant. Ceylon sapphires are renowned for their appetizing and complex blues, where hue, tone, and saturation combine to create a lively but deep color that performs consistently under mixed lighting. Heat treatment is a standard and stable enhancement in sapphire trade practice, applied to improve color and to reduce silk and other inclusions that can interfere with transparency, and when disclosed it is fully accepted by collectors and jewellers alike. For buyers considering this sapphire as both an object of beauty and a considered investment, its weight of 2.23 carats places it in a size bracket that attracts attention while remaining versatile for both rings and pendants. The combination of Ceylon origin, dark saturated blue, very slightly included clarity at eye level, and an excellent polish yields a stone that is attractive to connoisseurs who value traceable origin and pleasing optical performance, while also being realistic about common and stable treatments. As corundum ranks nine on the Mohs scale, this sapphire is durable for regular wear, and routine care with gentle cleaning and occasional professional inspection will preserve its appearance.

When planning a custom design to complement this cushion blue sapphire, consider combinations that enhance color contrast and optical harmony. A halo of small, high quality round brilliant diamonds in platinum or 18 karat white gold will create a striking contrast that visually brightens the blue center, while maintaining a classic and enduring aesthetic. For a more modern or masculine look, pair the cushion sapphire with tapered baguette diamonds on either shoulder, which emphasize the central stones geometry and create an elegant linear flow. If a warmer palette is desired, framing the sapphire with a thin bezel or accents in 18 karat yellow gold will add warmth that plays beautifully against the deep blue, and a rose gold setting can introduce a romantic vintage character. For creative color work, small lighter blue Ceylon sapphires set as side stones can produce a graded ombre effect, while the deliberate use of a pair of matched green emeralds offers a bold complementary contrast that brings vitality to the design. Practical considerations for setting include a low profile bezel or secure four prong head for everyday wear, and an open gallery for light entry when maximum sparkle is the priority. At The Natural Sapphire Company we recommend pairing this stone with melee diamonds of FG color and VS clarity for the halo if aiming for maximum brilliance without color distraction, or with well matched Ceylon accent sapphires if you prefer tonal sophistication.

For collectors and clients seeking assurance, we recommend independent gemological documentation to accompany the purchase, particularly to record origin, treatment, and the key measurements that distinguish this 2.23 carat cushion sapphire. The Natural Sapphire Company is available to assist with custom design consultation, sourcing of complementary accent stones, and recommendations for setting metal and style so the finished piece meets both aesthetic and practical expectations. With its balanced dimensions, mixed brilliant cut, excellent polish, very slightly included clarity as evaluated at eye level, dark color intensity, heat treatment disclosure, and Ceylon origin, this sapphire represents a compelling option for an educated buyer seeking a timeless center stone that combines natural character with robust everyday performance. Please contact The Natural Sapphire Company to discuss bespoke settings, certification options, and to arrange a personal viewing or secure purchase.