Sapphires are known for their incredible variety of colors, ranging from the classic blue to many other shades. Here is a comprehensive overview of the different colors of sapphires:

 Blue Sapphires  

   Blue is the most well-known and popular color for sapphires. These stones can range from light baby blue to deep royal blue, with the most valuable ones exhibiting a rich, velvety blue hue.

 

Fancy Sapphires  

   Sapphires that are not blue are known as "fancy sapphires" and come in a wide range of colors, including:

   - Pink: Ranging from light pink to intense magenta, pink sapphires are highly valued.

   - Yellow: These sapphires can range from light lemon yellow to deep golden yellow.

   - Orange: Orange sapphires exhibit colors from yellowish-orange to deep reddish-orange.

   -Green: Green sapphires are rare and can range from light green to deep forest green.

   - Purple: These sapphires range from light purple to deep reddish-purple.

   - Violet: Violet sapphires are another rare variant, often with a deep, rich color.

 

Padparadscha Sapphires  

   This rare variety features a unique blend of pink and orange hues, often described as salmon or sunset colors. They are highly prized for their exotic appearance.

 

Color Change Sapphires  

   These sapphires change color depending on the lighting conditions. For example, they might appear blue in daylight and purple under incandescent light.

 

Other Varieties 

   - Black: These sapphires are opaque and often used for their dramatic appearance.

   - White: White sapphires are colorless and can be used as an alternative to diamonds.

   - Star Sapphires: These exhibit a star-like asterism effect and can be found in various colors, including blue, pink, and black.

What is the rarest color of sapphire?

The rarest color of sapphire is widely considered to be the **Padparadscha Sapphire**. This unique gemstone exhibits a delicate blend of pink and orange hues, often described as peach or salmon-colored. The name "Padparadscha" originates from the Sinhalese word for lotus flower, which shares a similar color. 

Padparadscha sapphires are exceptionally rare due to their specific geological formation conditions and limited availability in the market. They are primarily sourced from Sri Lanka, with some deposits also found in Madagascar and Tanzania. Their rarity and beauty make them highly sought after by collectors and gem enthusiasts, often commanding premium prices.

Reference

1.  "Greek Word Study Tool". www.perseus.tufts.edu. Archived from the original on 5 December 2022. Retrieved 5 December 2022.

2. ^ Jump up to:^a b "Sapphire". GIA. Gemological Institute of America Inc. Archived from the original on 30 October 2016. Retrieved 27 October 2016.