3.40 Ct. Blue Sapphire from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This 3.40 carat oval blue sapphire from The Natural Sapphire Company presents a precise and balanced face up, with dimensions of 10.73 x 7.88 x 4.17 mm, and an overall transparency that communicates high material quality. The origin is Ceylon, Sri Lanka, a provenance known for producing sapphires with lively, saturated tones, and this specimen reflects that heritage. The gem has been heat treated, a widely accepted enhancement for corundum that stabilizes and intensifies color, and this treatment is disclosed without reservation. At eye level the clarity is graded as eye clean, indicating that any internal features are not visible to the unaided eye, which allows the stone to present an uninterrupted field of color and light. The polish is rated excellent, so facet junctions read crisp and surfaces show minimal surface disturbance, contributing to superior light performance and a refined face up appearance.

Technically the stone is cut as an oval with a mixed brilliant facet scheme, which combines a brilliant style crown with a pavilion that is optimized to return light in saturated color gemstones. The length to width ratio measures approximately 1.36, a proportion that yields an elegant oval silhouette that is neither too elongated nor too squat for standard mounting styles. The pavilion depth relative to the average diameter produces a depth ratio of approximately 44.8 percent, which sits within the typical range for well performing ovals and helps avoid the common pitfalls of windowing or excessive darkening. The mixed brilliant approach here is executed to enhance both brilliance and color saturation, by using smaller crown facets to break up light and a pavilion geometry designed to redirect light through the heart of the stone. The excellent polish ensures that light transmission is not compromised by surface haze, and the careful facet symmetry minimizes light leakage and enhances the gem to the eye.

Color attributes are of primary importance in sapphires, and this Ceylon stone exhibits an intense color intensity that reads as a rich, true blue with subtle secondary tones that may show slight violet or steel influences depending on lighting angle and environment. Ceylon provenance often yields a particular vibrancy and clarity of tone, and the mixed cut here balances the need to show depth of color while preserving lively sparkle. Pleochroic behavior in corundum can present different color directions, and the cutting strategy in this sapphire mitigates uneven color distribution by aligning major facets to present the most desirable hue face up. Under daylight the stone will tend to display its pure blue characteristics, while under incandescent or warm light sources the tone may deepen and take on a slightly warmer cast. The intense saturation ensures strong presence in jewelry, but because the gem is eye clean, it avoids the visual distractions that can dilute color intensity in lower clarity material.

From a craftsmanship and practical perspective this 3.40 carat Ceylon sapphire is versatile and suited to both everyday wear and formal presentation, owing to its robust corundum hardness of nine on the Mohs scale and its precise cutting and polishing. For settings that emphasize the stone in casual scenarios, a secure four or six prong mounting will showcase the oval profile and allow light interaction, while a low bezel or flush set can protect the girdle for more active use without sacrificing display. For formal pieces, this sapphire provides sufficient size and presence to be the focal point of a solitaire ring, pendant, or a classic halo composition, where surrounding diamonds can enhance perceived brightness while allowing the sapphire to retain its characteristic color depth. From a value standpoint, heat treatment is an industry standard that improves color without compromising stability, and Ceylon origin is often desirable to collectors and connoisseurs. The Natural Sapphire Company stands behind accurate representation of origin, treatment, and measurements, and we can provide guidance on mounting options, certification pathways, and care recommendations to ensure longevity. Gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush will maintain the excellent polish, and periodic professional inspection will preserve the stone in settings intended for daily or occasional wear.