Sapphires are one of the most sought-after gemstones, and identifying rough sapphire can be challenging. Here’s how to spot them in their natural form:
- Color: Look for a blue hue, though sapphires also come in pink, yellow, green, and more.
- Transparency: Rough sapphire typically has varying degrees of transparency, from opaque to translucent.
- Luster: Check for a glassy luster on the surface.
- Hardness: Sapphires rank 9 on the Mohs hardness scale. Scratch the surface with a steel file; it shouldn’t leave a mark.
- Shape: Rough sapphires often form hexagonal crystals or barrel-shaped formations.
Using these tips will help you identify rough sapphire with confidence.