Yellow sapphire – a gemstone from Sri Lanka

Yellow Sapphire – A Colored Variety of Corundum
Yellow sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum (Al₂O₃) with a characteristic yellow color that ranges from a soft light yellow to a rich gold. A hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and high luster make yellow sapphire one of the most durable and attractive gemstones. The value depends on the intensity of the color – stones with a deep, rich shade of yellow are the most valuable.

Sri Lanka – a famous source of yellow sapphires
Sri Lanka (Ceylon) is a traditional source of sapphires of all colors and is particularly famous for producing yellow sapphires of exceptional quality. The stones here are characterized by their bright color, high purity and brilliance, which makes them popular on world markets.

History and uses of yellow sapphire
Yellow sapphires have been popular since ancient times and are known in India under the name “Pukhraj”. It is still one of the most sought-after stones, used in jewelry and among collectors.

Identification of yellow sapphire

Chemical formula: Al₂O₃

Color: light yellow to deep gold

Crystal appearance: prismatic, hexagonal

Crystal system: hexagonal

Hardness: 9 (Mohs scale)

Luster: vitreous to diamond

Cleavage: none

Scratch: white

Density: 3.9 – 4.1 g/cm³