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
Pink Sapphire
Delicate baby pink to vivid magenta-pink. Separated gemologically from ruby by tone and saturation thresholds defined by major laboratories.
Al₂O₃ + Cr³⁺ (Aluminum Oxide with lower trace Chromium concentration than Ruby)Mohs 9.0 Mohs
Mineralogical & Gemological Profile
| Mineral Family | Corundum |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Corundum |
| Gemological Variety | Pink Sapphire |
| Chemical Composition | Al₂O₃ + Cr³⁺ (Aluminum Oxide with lower trace Chromium concentration than Ruby) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Mohs Hardness | 9.0 Mohs |
| Specific Gravity | 3.95 – 4.03 |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 – 1.770 |
Color Characteristics & Optical Behavior
Delicate baby pink to vivid magenta-pink. Separated gemologically from ruby by tone and saturation thresholds defined by major laboratories.
Geological Context & Pakistani / Global Localities
Found in marble-hosted and alluvial metamorphic deposits in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar, and East Africa, as well as Himalayan marble belts.
Collector Interest & Rarity Factors
Prized for high brilliance, lively fluorescence, and clear tonal transition between pastel pink corundum and saturated ruby.
Fine Jewelry Applications
Highly sought after for fine engagement rings, pavé bridal designs, and delicate drop earrings.
Treatment Considerations & Disclosure
Frequently subjected to low- or high-temperature heat treatment to remove secondary purple or brown modifiers. Beryllium diffusion must be tested for and disclosed.
Care & Cleaning Instructions
Wash in lukewarm soapy water with a soft brush; store separately from diamonds to prevent surface scratching.
Traditional Meaning
Traditional Symbolism & Cultural Heritage
Associated in traditional lore with compassion, emotional warmth, and grace. September birthstone.
Note: Cultural and birthstone traditions are presented strictly as historical folklore, never as scientifically verified medical or metaphysical effects.
Corundum
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Chemical formula
Al₂O₃ + Fe²⁺/Ti⁴⁺ (Aluminum Oxide with Iron and Titanium intervalence charge transfer)
Pale lemon yellow to rich canary and golden amber hues.
Chemical formula
Al₂O₃ + Fe³⁺ (Aluminum Oxide with trace Ferric Iron and color centers)