1.04 Ct. Purple Sapphire from Madagascar

This cushion shaped purple sapphire began its journey in the mineral-rich alluvial deposits of Madagascar, where skilled local miners recover gem bearing gravels by careful hand sorting. From the moment the rough crystal was identified, its transparent character and natural, medium intense purple hue set it apart, prompting selection for precision cutting rather than partial retention for other purposes. The rough material underwent initial examination to document color distribution, clarity, and crystal habit, and the results indicated suitability for a balanced, light reflecting cut. The decision to preserve the stone as an unenhanced, natural sapphire was deliberate, with no heat treatment or other enhancements applied at any stage, allowing the original Madagascan signature to remain intact. The Natural Sapphire Company maintained chain of custody from the mine site, recording provenance details and condition reports to ensure traceability and meeting our internal standards for responsible sourcing and ethical acquisition.

In the cutting studio the piece was evaluated for optimal yield and optical performance, and the cutter chose a cushion outline with a mixed brilliant facet arrangement to emphasize both the depth of color and lively scintillation. Meticulous planning and precision faceting produced a finished weight of 1.04 carats and final dimensions of 5.75 by 5.66 by 3.29 millimeters, measurements that reflect a balanced table and pavilion geometry. The mixed brilliant design combines a faceted crown that returns light with a pavilion that disperses flashes of brilliance, resulting in an appearance that is both luminous and refined. Clarity was assessed at eye level and recorded as very slightly included, a grading that indicates minor inclusions which do not detract from overall transparency. An excellent polish was achieved through progressive laps and microscopic inspection, leaving facet junctions crisp and surfaces highly reflective, an outcome that enhances both brilliance and the perception of color intensity.

Following cutting and polishing the sapphire advanced to final quality assurance and documentation with The Natural Sapphire Company, where gemological verification confirmed the origin as Madagascar, the lack of enhancement, the medium intense purple color, and the clarity and polish grades. Standardized photography and measured records are retained with the stone, and each sample receives handling instructions that reflect sapphire hardness and durability, acknowledging that corundum is rated nine on the Mohs scale and is well suited to wearable applications. The proportions and color of this 1.04 carat cushion make it appropriate for a range of settings, with the mixed brilliant cut performing well in both ring and pendant designs and when paired with white or yellow metals to complement the purple tone. Presented to market with full documentation of its journey from mine to cutter to laboratory verification and into our inventory, this Madagascar sapphire represents a traceable and verifiable natural gem, offered with the care and transparency expected from The Natural Sapphire Company.