Ocean teal sapphire is a rare and beautiful variety of the gemstone sapphire that displays a striking teal-blue color. Sapphires are a form of the mineral corundum and are known for their hardness, durability, and wide range of colors. While traditional sapphires are blue, they can occur naturally in many other shades like pink, yellow, green, and the coveted teal blue ocean teal sapphires. The teal color in ocean teal sapphires is caused by trace amounts of iron and titanium within the corundum. The combination of these elements interacts with light to produce the vivid sea-blue tones.
What Causes the Teal Color in Ocean Teal Sapphires?
As mentioned, ocean teal sapphires get their distinctive color from small amounts of iron and titanium present in the corundum crystal structure. More specifically, it is the interaction between iron ions (Fe3+) and titanium ions (Ti4+) that produces the teal coloring. The iron ions absorb wavelengths of light corresponding to yellows and oranges. Meanwhile, the titanium ions absorb wavelengths corresponding to violets and blues. By absorbing these complementary colors, the remaining light reflected back is in the blue-green range of the spectrum, creating the oceanic teal tones. The exact hue can range from an intense tropical teal to a darker seafoam green depending on the relative concentrations of iron and titanium.
Where are Ocean Teal Sapphires Found?
Ocean teal sapphires are exceptionally rare in nature and originate from very few locations around the world. Some of the most significant sources include:
- Tanzania – A small deposit was discovered here in 1994 producing teal sapphires with a rich greenish-blue color.
- Madagascar – Stones tend to have a more greenish teal hue.
- Kenya – Sapphires from this locality are a beautiful blue-green color.
- Australia – Teal sapphires are found here but in very limited quantities.
- United States – A few deposits have been found in Montana.
The limited quantities and sources for natural ocean teal sapphires make them exceptionally valued and priced much higher than common blue sapphires.
How are Ocean Teal Sapphires Mined?
Ocean teal sapphires are mined from primary hard rock deposits in the localities where they naturally occur. Sapphires form deep underground over millions of years in conditions of extreme heat and pressure. The rough stones are brought to the earth’s surface through ancient volcanic eruptions. Sapphires are found by mining into igneous rock formations and associated secondary alluvial deposits along rivers and streams. Selective mining is required to identify the highly sporadic occurrences of the rare teal sapphires. Techniques involve a combination of traditional methods and more advanced machinery. After extraction, the rough gems are sorted to isolate the highly valued teal stones for cutting and polishing into fine jewels.
Grading Ocean Teal Sapphires
Ocean teal sapphires are graded based on the same quality factors as sapphires in other colors. The key criteria are:
- Color – The vividness and attractiveness of the teal hue. Bluer greens are preferred.
- Clarity – How transparent the stone is and the fewest internal inclusions.
- Cut – How well the sapphire is cut to maximize light reflection and beauty.
- Carat – The weight, with higher carats being more valuable.
The overall grade determines the value, with top quality teal sapphires in large sizes being the most precious. Fancy shapes, like ovals and cushions, also command a premium.
Unique Properties of Ocean Teal Sapphires
In addition to their exceptional color, ocean teal sapphires possess the same outstanding properties that make all sapphires a highly valued gemstone:
- Hardness – With a 9 out of 10 rating on the Mohs hardness scale, sapphires are extremely durable and resistant to scratches and chips.
- Density – Sapphires have a very high density that provides excellent luster and brilliance.
- Stability – Their atomic structure makes them very stable and unaffected by common chemicals and environmental conditions.
- Versatility – Sapphires are suitable for all types of jewelry and settings.
These qualities mean ocean teal sapphire jewelry can be worn every day without damage while retaining its beauty and value. The teal color also gives them a unique appeal.
Ocean Teal Sapphire Jewelry
The most popular use of ocean teal sapphires is in jewelry. Their stunning sea-inspired hue and brilliance make for absolutely breathtaking pieces:
- Solitaire Rings – A teal sapphire solitaire ring maximizes the impact of the gem. White gold or platinum settings showcase the stone.
- Pendants – Long pendants hang close to the heart, perfect for ocean teal sapphires.
- Earrings – Teal sapphire earrings add a pop of color framed by sparkling diamonds.
- Bracelets – Sapphire tennis bracelets and bangles shine on the wrist.
For the finest ocean teal sapphire jewelry, it’s important to work with a reputable jeweler that sources natural untreated gems.
Price of Ocean Teal Sapphires
Due to their scarcity and desirability, ocean teal sapphires demand a significant premium over common blue sapphires. Premium quality 1 carat teal sapphires can cost $1,000 to $5,000 per carat. Larger stones over 5 carats exceed $10,000 per carat. The highest prices are paid for jewels exhibiting a vivid pure teal color, excellent clarity, skilled cutting, and larger carat weights up to 50 carats. Given their rarity, ocean teal sapphires are considered an important investment.
How to Identify Ocean Teal Sapphires
When shopping for ocean teal sapphires, either loose or in jewelry, it is important to verify their authenticity. Here are tips for identifying real natural teal sapphires:
- Quality teal sapphires should not be too dark or greenish. Look for medium-light tones.
- Inspect under magnification for natural inclusions typical of sapphires.
- Check for a natural blue fluorescence under UV light.
- Get a gemological lab certificate from a reputable grader like GIA.
- Buy from trustworthy jewelers and dealers that provide sourcing details.
- Beware of deals that seem too good to be true for this rare gem.
Synthetic and treated sapphires are common, so caution is advised when shopping to get the real thing.
Caring for Ocean Teal Sapphire Jewelry
While sapphires are extremely durable gems, some basic care of ocean teal sapphire jewelry will keep them looking exquisite for a lifetime:
- Avoid wearing during strenuous activity or sports to prevent damage.
- Clean with gentle dish soap, warm water, and a soft brush periodically.
- Ultrasonic and steam cleaning are usually safe for sapphires.
- When storing, wrap pieces individually in soft cloth to prevent scratching.
- Consider having important teal sapphire jewelry professionally cleaned annually.
Day-to-day, a simple wipe with a damp cloth will remove most dust and dirt buildup. Proper care preserves the fire and sweet teal tones.
Teal Sapphire Engagement Rings
While diamonds are traditional, ocean teal sapphires make for absolutely stunning alternative engagement ring stones. An eye-catching teal sapphire reflects a bride’s unique personality and brings a gorgeous pop of color. Sapphires also make meaningful September birthstone engagement rings. Whether set solitaire or complemented with diamonds, a sapphire engagement ring is sure to take any bride’s breath away!
Are Ocean Teal Sapphires Ethical?
As consumer demand grows for ocean teal sapphires, it raises concerns around ethical and conflict-free sourcing. Most teal sapphire mining occurs on a small scale in developing nations. It is important to verify gems are extracted and traded ethically without environmental destruction, dangerous labor practices, or financial benefit to corrupt regimes. Reputable jewelers today follow responsible sourcing practices and disclose origins. When shopping for teal sapphires, requesting ethically sourced gems helps support fair practices.
Conclusion
With their stunning sea-inspired hues and unmatched brilliance, ocean teal sapphires captivate anyone who experiences their beauty. The rare traces of iron and titanium that color these precious gems also imbue them with a sense of tranquility reminiscent of drifting waves. As exceptionally precious and cherished jewels, ocean teal sapphires will continue to be treasured by collectors and jewelry lovers alike for generations to come. Their splendor truly evokes the magical allure of the deep blue sea.
| Ocean Teal Sapphire Facts | |
|---|---|
| Color | Vivid blue-green teal |
| Source Locations | Tanzania, Madagascar, Kenya |
| Hardness | 9 on Mohs scale |
| Refractive Index | 1.760-1.778 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.9-4.1 |
| Treatments | None – Natural only |
