Pure vibrant red to slightly purplish red; colored by trace chromium substituting for aluminum in the crystal lattice....
Chemical formula
Al₂O₃ + Cr³⁺ (Aluminum Oxide with trace Chromium)
Corundum • Corundum
Fancy Sapphires
Encompasses violet, purple, green, teal, bi-color (parti), color-change (vanadium-bearing), and pinkish-orange (Padparadscha-type) corundum.
Al₂O₃ + trace Cr, Fe, Ti, VMohs 9.0 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Corundum |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Corundum |
| Gemological Variety | Fancy & Padparadscha-Type Sapphires |
| Chemical Composition | Al₂O₃ + trace Cr, Fe, Ti, V |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Mohs Hardness | 9.0 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 3.95 – 4.03 |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 – 1.770 |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Encompasses violet, purple, green, teal, bi-color (parti), color-change (vanadium-bearing), and pinkish-orange (Padparadscha-type) corundum.
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
Formed across diverse metamorphic and magmatic environments where shifting trace-element chemistry produces complex color zoning.
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
Bi-color, teal, and pinkish-orange sapphires offer one-of-a-kind color palettes combined with corundum's exceptional durability.
Fine Jewelry Applications
Favored by independent jewelry designers and bespoke collectors seeking distinctive, durable center stones.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Both unheated and heat-treated stones occur in the market; orange-pink hues require careful screening for lattice diffusion.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Warm soapy water and soft brush cleaning; store away from harder abrasives.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
Celebrated as emblems of individuality, artistic expression, and natural diversity.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Corundum
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