1.60 Ct. Purple Sapphire from Tanzania

This single transparent purple sapphire weighs 1.60 carats, and measures 7.93 x 5.91 x 3.88 mm, with a length to width ratio of 1.34, a depth proportion of approximately 56 percent, a mixed brilliant faceting scheme, and an excellent polish. The mixed brilliant style combines a brilliant cut crown with a step or modified pavilion to balance brilliance with controlled depth and contrast, producing lively scintillation from the table and crown facets while preserving weight in the pavilion. Clarity is graded very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, indicating only minor internal features that do not interrupt the visual performance or durability of the stone. Color is medium intense purple, with even distribution across the table and facets, and the gem is unenhanced, natural material from Tanzania, offering a collector grade of transparency and authenticity that is uncommon in untreated material.

Optically this stone benefits from the mixed brilliant geometry, where the crown facet angles and polished facet junctions are cut to maximize return of light into the eye while the pavilion step elements create a pattern of flashes and windows that enhance perceived depth. The relatively balanced depth percentage at 56 percent maintains good light return for an oval, avoiding a dark or overly shallow appearance. The excellent polish on both crown and pavilion facets preserves sharp facet junctions which produce crisp reflections and lively scintillation under mixed lighting. Because this sapphire is natural and unenhanced, its absorption features and color saturation are intrinsic to the crystal chemistry, and the stone displays stable medium intense purple in daylight and incandescent spectra, with modest pleochroic tendency typical of corundum that can add subtle variation when the gem is oriented or rotated in a setting.

From a jewelry design standpoint this oval purple sapphire is exceptionally versatile, and can be set into a wide range of configurations to suit contemporary or classic aesthetics. The moderate length to width ratio of 1.34 makes it ideal for a classic four or six prong solitaire setting that emphasizes symmetry and finger coverage, or for an east west orientation to create a modern, architectural profile. A bezel or partial bezel will provide the most protection to the girdle and pavilion while preserving the stone geometry, and a low profile bezel can be engineered to expose the table for maximum face up color when desired. For increased perceived size and contrast, a halo of small brilliant cut diamonds or pink sapphires will amplify the center stone color and add scintillation, and a shared prong halo can be designed with tight symmetry to complement the oval outline. The mixed brilliant pavilion pairs well with pavé shoulders that carry the pavilion reflections into the mounting, creating visual continuity between the center stone and the mounting metal.

Custom design options can be specified to accentuate the natural attributes of the stone. Selecting a warm metal such as 18 karat yellow or rose gold will intensify the purple by introducing warm reflective contrast, while platinum or white gold will emphasize the cooler purple tones and the stone s inherent transparency. Prong profiles can be fine tuned to balance security with light entry, and a three stone composition will pair the center purple sapphire with tapered baguettes or step cut side stones to echo the pavilion geometry. For high wearability, a low profile cathedral or bezel with integrated gasket protection will secure the gem while maintaining daily comfort. For bespoke commissions our craftsmen can mirror facet orientation in surrounding accents to synchronize scintillation, and can perform micro setting or millgrain detailing to complement the facet architecture without obscuring the crown table.

As with all corundum this purple sapphire benefits from straightforward maintenance and careful mounting to preserve its natural, unenhanced character. Hardness of nine on the Mohs scale ensures excellent scratch resistance for long term wear, but settings should be engineered to shield the girdle from sharp knocks, and ultrasonic cleaning is acceptable in most settings though professional advice is recommended for pieces with certain treatments or delicate mountings, even though this particular gem is not treated. Provenance from Tanzania and the declaration of no enhancement increase the stone s value to collectors and connoisseurs who seek natural color and optical integrity. For custom design consultations, sizing, or to review CAD or hand drawn sketches that explore the options described, please contact The Natural Sapphire Company where our gem specialists and bench team will collaborate to translate these technical attributes into a finished piece that maximizes color, brilliance, and wearing comfort.