In GIA’s experiments, the colour observed after the colour stability test is very similar to the colour observed after exposure to daylight, for example, if set in jewellery and worn frequently. This colour change behaviour raises important questions about determining and reporting the colour of sapphires exhibiting this colour change. Some pink sapphires might shift to a padparadscha colour or pure orange. In recently observed tests, some sapphires reacted to the colour stability test by gaining orange or yellow coloration. This test will cause an unstable orange component to fade, returning the stone to pink. They are highly suited for engagement rings being extremely durable and unique.During routine colour stability testing of pink sapphires, GIA experts observed an unusual gain of orange or yellow coloration to a padparadscha-like colour or even to pure orange.Ĭolour in sapphires can be unstable, which is why GIA routinely tests them, including those that may be characterised with padparadscha colour, for stability by exposing them to intense incandescent illumination for a few hours. They are the rarest variety of sapphires, and hence very much sought after by conniserus. Other notable origins include Madagascar and Tanzania. The finest stones come from Sri Lanka, which contributes to most of the stones available on the market. The best stones are ones which have a uniform color without any color zones and do not owe their color to any orange staining/color modifiers. This is because padparadscha sapphires are known for their pastel tones, and a padparadscha that is very high in saturation falls into the category of pink or orange sapphires. Unlike other sapphire colors, the padparadscha sapphire is more desirable when it is of a medium-saturation. These stones are not very well known even to collectors, because of their extreme rarity. The color of Padparadscha sapphires is very unique and can be best described as a fusion of pink and orange. The name Padparadscha is derived from the Sinhalese word for “aquatic lotus blossom”.

Padparadscha sapphire gia