Kashmir sapphires are one of the most desired and most demanded gemstone in the market since Kashmir Sapphire has taken place in international auctions like Sotheby's. These sapphires are popular due to their velvety blue hue and exceptional quality. These sapphires are one of the collector's dream and a hallmark of the world's finest jewelry collections. In the market, there are lot of blue sapphires which are referred to " Kashmir Sapphires ". It is very difficult to tell if a sapphire is truly from Kashmir. This article highlights the unique characteristics of Kashmir sapphires, gemological methods to identify its origin along with practical tips to buy original sapphire.

Let us first have historical origin of sapphire. Kashmir Sapphires were mined in 1881 in the remote Zanskar range of the Himalayan mountains. Their fame stems from an exceptionally brief mining period between 1882 and 1887, often referred to as the legendary “old mine” era.

Caracteristics of Genuine Kashmir Sapphires

Here are few factors which should be considered before making decision to buy original Kashmir Sapphire. 

Extreme Rare

True Kashmir sapphires are considered exceptionally rare. The mining of original Kashmir Sapphire stopped during 1900s. The commercial production lasted only a few years. Later discoveries have been minimal and highly irregular. The geology of the stones is making them extreme rare. Here are some Kashmir sapphire rarity indicators:-

• Short historic mining window
• unique geology
• No commercial mining today
• Rarity increase in 2+ carat stones
• Royal or aristocratic ownership
• Past Sotheby’s / Christie’s records 

Velvety Cornflower Blue Hue

These sapphires are popular for their velvety cornflower blue. This no other sapphire origin has been able to replicate. This is due to the fine inclusions which scatter light while creating soft glow. The color has even saturation, free of zoning (uneven color distribution). 

Unique Inclusions

Real sapphires have internal inclusions which play key role in the identification of Kashmir Sapphires. Tiny silk like rutile needles create the actual velvety effect. These inclusions help gemologists a lot. 

High Value

Within the natural gemstones world of sapphires, Kashmir sapphires represent the  " benchmark for blue sapphires". The price of these sapphires exceed the desirability of rubies and emeralds.

Auction Provenance

At major international auctions, original blue Kashmir sapphires from Jamu Kashmir mines have gained six- to seven-figure prices, reflecting their high value due to limited supply. Exceptional Kashmir Sapphires have been sold at Sotheby’s at exceptional market. Examples include Richelieu Sapphires, sold in 2013 for 7.7 million CHF.

The Jewel of Kashmir, a 27.68-carat sapphire ring that achieved 52.3 million HKD in 2015.

High End Pricing

The normal Kashmir sapphire even would fetch around USD 20,000, while museum-quality stones can cross USD 1 million.

Enduring Collectability

Kashmir sapphire are known for their value due to unmatched color, historic origin, rarity, and legacy. Kashmir sapphires are widely regarded as blue-chip assets in the world of fine colored gemstones.

Gemological Methods to Identify Kashmir Sapphires

There needs a combination of gemological analysis which help in the identification of original Kashmir Sapphires. Different scientific testing and observations are done to find proof of origin. Here are mentioned a few:-

1. Advance Visual Analysis

One gemologist can start with visual inspection of the sapphire by looking at following:- 

• Identifying Kashmir Sapphires by Color and Saturation: Kashmir sapphires are popular for their deep yet soft blue tone, often compared to velvet called " Cornflower Velvet Blue".
• Kashmir Sapphire Velvety Texture Sign: The velvety look of the sapphire is caused by light-scattering inclusions. This is the true characteristics of the sapphire. 
• Clarity: Kashmir Sapphires often have inclusions which increase the gemstone beauty. 

2. Type of Inclusions, sapphire often have

A detailed microscopic analysis of sapphires can tell the signs of origin. 

• Silk Inclusions: Original sapphires have fine rutile needles which create soft effect unique to Kashmir sapphires.
• Zoning and Crystal Patterns: There is found certain internal patterns and inclusions which are associated with the sapphires from the Kashmir region.
• Negative Crystals: Kashmir Sapphires often have tiny, transparent cavities often filled with liquid or gas. These crystal inclusions also tell the story of geology of origin. 

3. Spectroscopic Analysis

An analyses through spectroscopic is also done with the help of tools like UV-Vis-NIR and FTIR spectroscopy. Kashmir Sapphires often show a absorption spectra. This also proves them different from other regions' sapphires. 

4. Chemical Composition Testing

Kashmir Sapphires can also be identified by unique trace elements. These elements tell the geological conditions of the Jamu and Kashmir region. Gemologist can measure elements like as iron (Fe), titanium (Ti), and gallium (Ga) by use of Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). Kashmir sapphires often show lower iron content which play role to their vivid blue hue. 

5. Lab Certifications of Kashmir Sapphires

Further test to know the origin of Kashmir sapphires can be done from reputable and well-known gemological labs and institutions such as GIA, SSEF and Gübelin. The certificate which states " Kashmir" as origin, it would Jamu Kashmir, Indian Administrated Kashmir. The cerificate that states " Azad Kashmir", it would mean sapphires from Pakistan administrated Kashmir. Both Kashmir regions are lying on same geological belt. 

Comparison of Kashmir Sapphires from Other Sources

If you one want to know about genuine Kashmir sapphires, it is crucial to know that how sapphire from other regions from the one. Here we will discuss a brief introduction of other region's sapphires. 

1. Kashmir vs. Sri Lankan Sapphires

• Color: Sri Lankan sapphires are also known as Ceylon Sapphires. Ceylon sapphires are more lighter in tone and brighter and more brilliant than the velvety Kashmir blue. 
• Inclusions: Sri Lankan sapphires may contain other crystals such as zircon  or fluid inclusions, which are not typical in Kashmir stones.

2. Kashmir vs. Burmese Sapphires

• Color: Burmese sapphires are popular due to their vivid, slightly purplish-blue tones, while Kashmir sapphires are cornflower blue.
• Silk Effect: Burmese sapphires include silk inclusions. But color is less than Kashmir.

3. Comparing Kashmir Sapphires to Madagascar

• Rarity: Madagascar sapphires are widely found and dark in color. They normally have dark blue tone. 
• Chemical Signature: An Advanced testing can understand the trace element of Madagascar sapphires from those of Kashmir.

Expert Tips to Buy Original Kashmir Sapphire

When buying a sapphire with the name of Kashmir, follow these steps to ensure authenticity:

1. Kashmir Sapphire Origin Verifications

Always look for reputable lab certification from trusted gemological institutions. The certificate must have origin. 

2. Verify the Seller

Always try to look for reputable gem dealer, jewelers and auctions houses. They must have history of handling fine gemstones. Be cautious about the deals which seem too good to be true. 

3. Close Eye to Market

One must be aware of current market trends and market prices for Kashmir sapphires. Natural gemstones are prices at high value, often exceeding tens of thousands of dollars per carat.

4. Analyse the Stone in Hand

Look the stone under 10x loupe or more. Look for unique Kashmir Sapphire features such as unique inclusions and velvety texture. 

1.8 Carat Kashmir Ruby

Emerald cut • Natural red • Collector quality

View This Ruby →

Common Myths and Stories About Kashmir Sapphires

1. Myth: All Blue Sapphires with Silk Are Kashmir

Fact: Many other sapphires like Burmese also have silk inclusions but they are not Kashmir. One must gather all factors including inclusion, patterns, color and lab analysis which confirm Kashmir. 

2. Myth: Kashmir Sapphires Are Always Perfect

Fact: Kashmir sapphires are not clean always. They must have internal flaws and inclusions like rutile silk. Even sapphires from Azad Kashmir and Batakundi also have inclusions. 

3. Myth: Certification Guarantees Authenticity

Fact: Certification is must to identify origin of Kashmir. However, one must look to verify the credentials of the laboratory issuing the report. Not all certifications are created equal.

Conclusion

Identifying Kashmir sapphire need advanced tools and expertise to get proof of origin of sapphire. One must need reliable certification. From their velvety blue hue to unique inclusions and trace elements, Kashmir sapphires have distinct features that set them apart from other gemstones. A buyer should understand the characteristics of a Kashmir Sapphire whether he is a jewelry designer, mineral collector or investor. Trusted verification is must which help you to get a genuine piece. 

A true rare Kashmir sapphire =

Velvety cornflower blue + fine natural silk + no heat + old mine origin + 2plus carat size + top lab report

Reference:

https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/kashmir-sapphires-a-detailed-guide-for-collectors-and-enthusiasts