2.73 Ct. Blue Sapphire from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This transparent 2.73 carat cushion shape blue sapphire measures 8.74 by 6.49 by 4.92 millimeters, and presents as a classic pillow outline with balanced proportions and pleasing face up presence. The depth of approximately 64.7 percent places the pavilion within a range that promotes strong internal reflection while maintaining lively table brightness. The mixed brilliant cut applied to this stone integrates a precision oriented facet architecture, and when combined with an excellent polish the gem exhibits crisp facet junctions and uninterrupted reflective planes. Origin is Ceylon Sri Lanka, and enhancement by controlled heat treatment has been used to stabilize and intensify the natural chroma, which is evaluated here as vivid color intensity. Clarity is graded as slightly included at eye level, indicating that inclusions are minor, dispersely distributed and do not materially interrupt the optical performance at normal viewing distances. The Natural Sapphire Company presents this sapphire as an example of well executed cutting and finishing that preserves origin character while optimizing face up appearance.

The mixed brilliant cut on this cushion sapphire is a deliberate synthesis of brightening and depth enhancing strategies, pairing brilliant facet geometry on the crown with a modified pavilion arrangement that controls light return. On the crown the smaller star and kite facets around the table are proportioned to maximize facet contrast and scintillation, producing dynamic flashes on movement. The pavilion facets are arranged to direct light back through the table after multiple internal reflections, creating the sensation of depth that intensifies perceived saturation. The rounded corners of the cushion outline reduce light leakage that is more common in heavily angled corners, while the faceting sequence at the girdle transitions smoothly from crown to pavilion, minimizing destructive internal scattering. The result is a stone that shows high brilliance and lively scintillation, while the facet pattern preserves the strong blue tone characteristic of Ceylon material. In practical terms this cutting approach enhances the sapphire inherent properties by balancing return of white light for brilliance, with retention of selective blue wavelengths that give the gem its vivid color intensity.

Color and clarity interplay is central to this sapphire performance, and the vivid color intensity denotes a high saturation with a medium to medium deep tone that remains visually rich without becoming inky. Heat treatment in sapphire is a standard and stable enhancement when performed correctly, and in this example the treatment reduces color zoning and enhances uniformity of hue, allowing the mixed brilliant faceting to distribute color evenly across the table. Slightly included clarity at eye level means there are natural growth features or fine mineral inclusions present, but they are small or positioned so as not to interrupt the main light paths through the gem. Those inclusions can serve as fingerprints of natural origin, and under magnification they can also add character without detracting from face up appeal. The excellent polish amplifies every facet plane, sharpening reflections and aiding in crisp contrast between bright and dark facets. Precision in facet alignment and smooth pavilion facets are especially important for a sapphire of this depth, because micro irregularities in polish or junctions can scatter light and reduce saturation. Here the craftsmanship maintains clean facet junctions and even polish, which together allow the mixed brilliant design to perform at its intended optical efficiency.

From a setting and design perspective the physical and optical characteristics of this Ceylon cushion sapphire invite specific choices that will enhance its natural beauty. Because the cut emphasizes light return through the table, face up brilliance and color benefit from settings that expose the crown and allow light entry, such as four or six prong mounts or a low profile bezel with an open gallery. A setting that lifts the stone slightly will promote access to light for the pavilion, increasing the sense of depth and scintillation. Metal choice can influence visual temperature of color, with yellow or rose gold providing a subtle warm contrast that can enhance perceived richness, and white metals offering a modern backdrop that emphasizes cool blue tones. For bespoke commissions The Natural Sapphire Company recommends precise orientation during setting to align the major color plane if any pleochroic variation is present, and to position prongs away from the most reflective facet junctions to avoid masking flashes. This sapphire is well suited to center stone applications in rings, pendants or high visibility earrings, and will respond exceptionally well to thoughtful lapidary informed mounting that respects the mixed brilliant architecture. The Natural Sapphire Company stands ready to advise on mounting options, conservation considerations, and certification pathways to ensure that the gem retains its optical performance and historical provenance for generations.