Accent Stones Greenish Blue Sapphire Ring 3.06 Ct., 14K Yellow Gold

This ring centers on a transparent, C.Dunaigre certified greenish blue sapphire weighing 3.06 carat, presented in a cushion shape with step cut faceting. The stone measures 9.32 x 6.28 x 5.08 mm, and displays vivid color saturation with an excellent polish. Clarity has been evaluated as eye clean at normal viewing distance, and the sapphire has been heat treated, a stable and widely accepted enhancement that improves tone and clarity without affecting the structural integrity of the corundum. The sapphire is sourced from Madagascar, a provenance that is noted for producing a wide range of attractive blue and greenish blue material. The design integrates white pear shaped natural diamonds on either shoulder, each set to total approximately 0.20 carats combined, graded Very Slightly Included in clarity, with color F. Additional white round shaped natural diamonds are incorporated, totaling approximately 0.16 carats, also graded VS1 to VS2 in clarity and color F. The ring is fully executed in 14K yellow gold, providing a warm contrast to the cool greenish blue of the center stone, and the overall construction is crafted to display the gemstones prominently while maintaining secure mounting and visual balance.

When comparing durability for daily wear, corundum gemstones such as this greenish blue sapphire are among the most practical choices. Sapphire ranks nine on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it highly resistant to surface scratching from common materials and everyday contact, second only to diamond among natural gemstones. Hardness, however, is only one aspect of durability. Corundum does not have true cleavage as some softer gemstones do, and it typically exhibits good toughness, meaning it resists fracturing under normal use. Heat treatment, as applied to this stone, does not reduce the inherent hardness or toughness, and treated sapphires respond to standard care procedures in the same way as untreated material. The cushion shape with step cut facets yields broad, flat facet planes, which present excellent polish and depth of color, and the step cut also reduces the number of tiny facet junctions that can trap debris, making routine cleaning straightforward. The step cut can emphasize any edge conditions, therefore the prong protection at the corners is a deliberate design choice to shield those potentially vulnerable points from direct knocks.

The setting and accompanying materials further enhance the ring’s suitability for everyday wear. The center sapphire is held by a secure prong setting that raises the gem for visibility while supporting the corners of the cushion cut. The pear and round diamonds are set within the gallery and shoulders in a configuration that reduces exposure of pavillion edges and helps to distribute impact forces. The use of 14K yellow gold for the shank and mounting contributes both aesthetic warmth and practical durability, as 14 karat gold alloys contain sufficient base metal to improve scratch resistance and structural resilience compared with higher karat gold. Diamonds used as side stones have the highest hardness of any gem, which helps to resist abrasion along the ring shoulders. For regular activity, the combined attributes of a hard corundum center stone, secure prong work, and a robust 14K gold mounting mean that this piece will tolerate normal daily wear comfortably, provided routine care and sensible handling are observed.

To preserve the condition and appearance over time, specific care recommendations apply. Clean the ring periodically with warm water, mild detergent, and a soft brush, rinsing thoroughly and drying with a lint free cloth. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine and strong acids, which can impact metal alloys and may loosen settings over time. While corundum itself is chemically stable, repeated exposure to household chemicals affects the metal and settings rather than the gemstone, so removal during strenuous cleaning activities is advisable. Ultrasonic cleaning is generally acceptable for well set, eye clean, heat treated sapphires, however it is prudent to have the setting inspected before subjecting the piece to mechanical cleaning methods, and to avoid ultrasonics if inclusions or repaired chips are present. Have the prongs and setting checked by a qualified jeweler annually to ensure stones remain secure. These measures, combined with the inherent hardness and good toughness of the sapphire, and the protective design and robust metallurgy of the mounting, make this ring from The Natural Sapphire Company an excellent candidate for daily wear with proper care.