Skip to main content

Rare Sapphire

to
328
1,026
718
1,436
438
431
123
122
93
57
40
36
34
34
32
25
25
23
22
20
16
10
9
7
7
6
5
5
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
247
65
37
33
27
Sort By
Studd Earrings with unheated Sapphires in 18 Karat White Gold
Studd Earrings with unheated Sapphires in 18 Karat White Gold

Studd Earrings with unheated Sapphires in 18 Karat White Gold

Located in Lucerne, CH

the night sky, showing the sapphires' rare and unaltered brilliance. These earrings epitomize

Category

21st Century and Contemporary European Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

Emilio Jewelry 8.00 Carat Royal Blue Sapphire Ring
Emilio Jewelry 8.00 Carat Royal Blue Sapphire Ring

Emilio Jewelry 8.00 Carat Royal Blue Sapphire Ring

By Emilio!

Located in New York, NY

From The Vault At Emilio Jewelry New York, A rare round cut ceylon sapphire with Royal blue color

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Blue Sapphire

1.44 Ct Natural Purplish Pink Sapphire, Pear Cut Loose Gemstone, for Fine Ring
1.44 Ct Natural Purplish Pink Sapphire, Pear Cut Loose Gemstone, for Fine Ring

1.44 Ct Natural Purplish Pink Sapphire, Pear Cut Loose Gemstone, for Fine Ring

Located in Peshawar, PK

Rare Purplish Pink Natural Sapphire from Madagascar, Pear-Cut Loose Gemstone for Fine Custom Ring

Category

2010s Malagasy Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Sapphire, Pink Sapphire

IGI Certified 1.03 Colour Change Untreated Sapphire Diamond 18k Gold Pendant
IGI Certified 1.03 Colour Change Untreated Sapphire Diamond 18k Gold Pendant

IGI Certified 1.03 Colour Change Untreated Sapphire Diamond 18k Gold Pendant

By Gems and Jewels UK

Located in Birmingham, GB

Rare Colour Change Sapphire & Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Pendant Necklace. A fine IGI certified 1.03

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Purple Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yello...

Tiffany & Co. Antique Burma Sapphire Diamond Cocktail Ring
Tiffany & Co. Antique Burma Sapphire Diamond Cocktail Ring

Tiffany & Co. Antique Burma Sapphire Diamond Cocktail Ring

By Tiffany & Co.

Located in New York, NY

Époque elegance and artistry. Centering a rare, unheated 7-carat sapphire (carat weight is approximate

Category

Early 20th Century American Belle Époque Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold

AIGS Certified 2.64ct Oval Blue Sapphire, 8.26x7.83x4.97 mm
AIGS Certified 2.64ct Oval Blue Sapphire, 8.26x7.83x4.97 mm

AIGS Certified 2.64ct Oval Blue Sapphire, 8.26x7.83x4.97 mm

Located in เกาะสมุย, TH

make sure first before making purchases. For sapphire lovers- rare top color and good clarity oval

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Burmese Loose Gemstones

Materials

Blue Sapphire

Peter Suchy GIA 2.43 Carat Sapphire Diamond White Gold Dangle Earrings
Peter Suchy GIA 2.43 Carat Sapphire Diamond White Gold Dangle Earrings

Peter Suchy GIA 2.43 Carat Sapphire Diamond White Gold Dangle Earrings

By Peter Suchy

Located in Stamford, CT

Step into elegance with these rare Peter Suchy sapphire and diamond dangle earrings. 2 cushion cut

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Green Sapphire, Purple Sapphire, Gold,...

Oscar Heyman 14.21ct Cat's-Eye Sapphire & Diamond Ring
Oscar Heyman 14.21ct Cat's-Eye Sapphire & Diamond Ring

Oscar Heyman 14.21ct Cat's-Eye Sapphire & Diamond Ring

By Oscar Heyman

Located in New York City, NY

This Oscar Heyman ring is made from platinum and contains a rare 14.21ct Cat's-Eye Sapphire and 14

Category

2010s American Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum

GIA Certified 5.58 Carat Vivid Blue Sapphire and Diamond Platinum Ring
GIA Certified 5.58 Carat Vivid Blue Sapphire and Diamond Platinum Ring

GIA Certified 5.58 Carat Vivid Blue Sapphire and Diamond Platinum Ring

Located in Chicago, IL

ring centering a rare 5.58 carat cushion-cut sapphire, certified by GIA as a natural, untreated vivid

Category

2010s American Contemporary Solitaire Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Platinum

NWT $26, 000 18KT Gold Fancy Glittering 8CT Blue Sapphire Diamond Necklace
NWT $26, 000 18KT Gold Fancy Glittering 8CT Blue Sapphire Diamond Necklace

NWT $26, 000 18KT Gold Fancy Glittering 8CT Blue Sapphire Diamond Necklace

Located in New York, NY

The Following Item we are offering is a Rare 18KT White Gold Blue Sapphire Diamond Necklace

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Choker Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold

Mario Buccellati Ceylon Sapphire Diamond 18K Dome Ring
Mario Buccellati Ceylon Sapphire Diamond 18K Dome Ring

Mario Buccellati Ceylon Sapphire Diamond 18K Dome Ring

By Mario Buccellati

Located in Miami, FL

Mario Buccellati Vintage 1950s Two-Tone Gold Dome Ring – Unheated Ceylon Sapphire & Diamond A rare

Category

Vintage 1960s European Retro Dome Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold

GIA Certified 3.31Ct Oval Natural Pink-Orange Sapphire
GIA Certified 3.31Ct Oval Natural Pink-Orange Sapphire

GIA Certified 3.31Ct Oval Natural Pink-Orange Sapphire

Located in San Diego, CA

rare of sapphire colors. The hue is rich and transparent, allowing a view directly into and through the

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Sapphire, Platinum

1.61 Carat Deep Blue Natural Kashmir Sapphire Round Cut Loose Gemstone for Ring
1.61 Carat Deep Blue Natural Kashmir Sapphire Round Cut Loose Gemstone for Ring

1.61 Carat Deep Blue Natural Kashmir Sapphire Round Cut Loose Gemstone for Ring

Located in Peshawar, PK

% natural, this fine Kashmir sapphire is a rare collector’s gem, prized for its origin and authentic

Category

2010s Pakistani Contemporary Loose Gemstones

Materials

Sapphire, Blue Sapphire

9.74ct Blue Sapphire AGL No Heat Ceylon Three Stone Ring
9.74ct Blue Sapphire AGL No Heat Ceylon Three Stone Ring

9.74ct Blue Sapphire AGL No Heat Ceylon Three Stone Ring

Located in New York, NY

finger size 6.25, this piece combines a rare, investment-grade sapphire with high-color accent diamonds

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Platinum

Antique Carved Crucifix Natural Burma Sapphire Diamond Gold Platinum Necklace
Antique Carved Crucifix Natural Burma Sapphire Diamond Gold Platinum Necklace

Antique Carved Crucifix Natural Burma Sapphire Diamond Gold Platinum Necklace

By Steven Fox Jewelry

Located in Greenwich, CT

comforting spirit. The rare AGL certified carved sapphire, encircled by single cut round diamonds, is

Category

Antique Early 1800s Early Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold

IGI 1.07 Carat Color Change Sapphire Pink Blue Purple Triangle Cut 18k Gold Ring
IGI 1.07 Carat Color Change Sapphire Pink Blue Purple Triangle Cut 18k Gold Ring

IGI 1.07 Carat Color Change Sapphire Pink Blue Purple Triangle Cut 18k Gold Ring

By Gems and Jewels UK

Located in Birmingham, GB

sapphire clarity with rare and unique colour change effect. Fully by certified by IGI as natural, untreated

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Solitaire Rings

Materials

Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Purple Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold,...

Spectra Fine Jewelry, Certified Kashmir Sapphire Diamond Cluster Earrings
Spectra Fine Jewelry, Certified Kashmir Sapphire Diamond Cluster Earrings

Spectra Fine Jewelry, Certified Kashmir Sapphire Diamond Cluster Earrings

By Spectra Fine Jewelry

Located in New York, NY

of these rare Kashmir sapphires. Enhancing the allure of these earrings are 14 pear-shaped diamonds

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary More Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum

Unheated Burma 5.25ct Blue Sapphire 18k Ring GIA Cert = Sensational!
Unheated Burma 5.25ct Blue Sapphire 18k Ring GIA Cert = Sensational!

Unheated Burma 5.25ct Blue Sapphire 18k Ring GIA Cert = Sensational!

Located in bangkok, TH

clarity in such a large Burmese blue sapphire is absolutely rare and absolutely to be collected. Lustre

Category

2010s Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold

Gia Certified Pink Purple Sapphire Untreated 0.93ct Oval Cut Loose Gem 6.6x4.7mm
Gia Certified Pink Purple Sapphire Untreated 0.93ct Oval Cut Loose Gem 6.6x4.7mm

Gia Certified Pink Purple Sapphire Untreated 0.93ct Oval Cut Loose Gem 6.6x4.7mm

By Gems and Jewels UK

Located in Birmingham, GB

purple colour. Fully certified by GIA as untreated and unheated. Very rare for natural sapphires. This

Category

21st Century and Contemporary More Jewelry

Materials

Sapphire, Purple Sapphire

3.39 Carat Natural Padparadscha Sapphire Diamond Platinum Gold Engagement Ring
3.39 Carat Natural Padparadscha Sapphire Diamond Platinum Gold Engagement Ring

3.39 Carat Natural Padparadscha Sapphire Diamond Platinum Gold Engagement Ring

Located in New York, NY

This unique, beautifully designed and masterfully handcrafted ring features an amazing and rare

Category

2010s Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Padparadscha Sapphire , Gold, 22k Gold, Platinum

Retro Moonstone Sapphire Flower Brooch 14 Karat Gold Antique Midcentury
Retro Moonstone Sapphire Flower Brooch 14 Karat Gold Antique Midcentury

Retro Moonstone Sapphire Flower Brooch 14 Karat Gold Antique Midcentury

Located in New York, NY

This is a gorgeous and rare antique Moonstone and Sapphire Flower Brooch Pin in 14 Karat Gold. The

Category

20th Century Unknown Retro Brooches

Materials

Moonstone, Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Natural Unheated Pinkish Purple Sapphire Gemstone 4.23 carats with GIA Report
Natural Unheated Pinkish Purple Sapphire Gemstone 4.23 carats with GIA Report

Natural Unheated Pinkish Purple Sapphire Gemstone 4.23 carats with GIA Report

Located in Los Angeles, CA

sapphire is a rare find. Its captivating color, flawless clarity, and expert cut make it an ideal choice

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Loose Gemstones

Materials

Sapphire, Purple Sapphire

NWT $16, 600 18KT Gold 18CT Fancy Aquamarine Diamond Purple Sapphire Earrings
NWT $16, 600 18KT Gold 18CT Fancy Aquamarine Diamond Purple Sapphire Earrings

NWT $16, 600 18KT Gold 18CT Fancy Aquamarine Diamond Purple Sapphire Earrings

Located in New York, NY

The Following Items we are offering are a Rare Important Pair of Spectacular and Beautiful

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Dangle Earrings

Materials

Aquamarine, Diamond, Sapphire, Purple Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold

NO HEAT 5.25 Carat Heart-Shaped Fancy Color Sapphire Diamond Necklace
NO HEAT 5.25 Carat Heart-Shaped Fancy Color Sapphire Diamond Necklace

NO HEAT 5.25 Carat Heart-Shaped Fancy Color Sapphire Diamond Necklace

By Antinori Fine Jewels

Located in Chicago, IL

complement the rare pastel tones of the sapphire, creating a harmonious and feminine jewel with a timeless

Category

2010s Italian Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Pink Sapphire, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

GIA Certified Untreated Bi Colour Australian Sapphire 18k White Gold Ring ITSIT
GIA Certified Untreated Bi Colour Australian Sapphire 18k White Gold Ring ITSIT

GIA Certified Untreated Bi Colour Australian Sapphire 18k White Gold Ring ITSIT

Located in Birmingham, GB

ITSIT Natural Parti Colour Untreated Australian Sapphire 18k White Gold Three Stone Ring. Rare GIA

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, Green Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold...

GIA Platinum Sapphire Diamond Ring 1.25ct Unheated GH VS SI Size 5.25
GIA Platinum Sapphire Diamond Ring 1.25ct Unheated GH VS SI Size 5.25

GIA Platinum Sapphire Diamond Ring 1.25ct Unheated GH VS SI Size 5.25

Located in West Hempstead, NY

ring has a refined yet substantial feel. A rare and highly desirable unheated sapphire piece in premium

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum

GIA Certified 8.01Ct Cushion Cut Unheated Blue Sapphire
GIA Certified 8.01Ct Cushion Cut Unheated Blue Sapphire

GIA Certified 8.01Ct Cushion Cut Unheated Blue Sapphire

Located in San Diego, CA

blue Sapphire of this size that is unheated is quite rare. The sapphire is accompanied by a GIA Report

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Blue Sapphire, Platinum

Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire Stone 6.05 carats with GIA Report / JupiterGem
Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire Stone 6.05 carats with GIA Report / JupiterGem

Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire Stone 6.05 carats with GIA Report / JupiterGem

Located in Los Angeles, CA

authenticity and quality This 6.05-carat unheated purple sapphire is a rare and magnificent gemstone, ideal

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Malagasy Loose Gemstones

Materials

Sapphire, Purple Sapphire

1.46ct Fancy Untreated Colour Change Sapphire Diamond 18k Gold Halo Signet Ring
1.46ct Fancy Untreated Colour Change Sapphire Diamond 18k Gold Halo Signet Ring

1.46ct Fancy Untreated Colour Change Sapphire Diamond 18k Gold Halo Signet Ring

By Gems and Jewels UK

Located in Birmingham, GB

Unique Natural Fancy Pentagon Cut Untreated Colour Change Sapphire 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Halo

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, Green ...

33.00 Carat Natural Gem Yellow Green Orange Color Sapphires Tennis Bracelet
33.00 Carat Natural Gem Yellow Green Orange Color Sapphires Tennis Bracelet

33.00 Carat Natural Gem Yellow Green Orange Color Sapphires Tennis Bracelet

Located in New York, NY

33.00CT Natural Sapphires tennis bracelet. Rare "Honey Colors" Orange, brown, and greens

Category

2010s American Tennis Bracelets

Materials

Sapphire, Green Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold

Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire Stone 2.27 carats with GIA Report / JupiterGem
Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire Stone 2.27 carats with GIA Report / JupiterGem

Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire Stone 2.27 carats with GIA Report / JupiterGem

Located in Los Angeles, CA

purple sapphire is a rare and valuable gemstone, perfect for collectors or as the focal point of a custom

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Loose Gemstones

Materials

Sapphire, Purple Sapphire

0.75ct Untreated Parti Colour Blue Green Sapphire Round 18k White Gold Pendant
0.75ct Untreated Parti Colour Blue Green Sapphire Round 18k White Gold Pendant

0.75ct Untreated Parti Colour Blue Green Sapphire Round 18k White Gold Pendant

By Gems and Jewels UK

Located in Birmingham, GB

& unheated, very rare for natural sapphires. Set in a fine 18k white gold solitaire pendant. The pendant is

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, Green Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold...

1.19ct Unheated Burmese Lilac Sapphire Platinum Diamond Ring  Merkaba Jewelry
1.19ct Unheated Burmese Lilac Sapphire Platinum Diamond Ring  Merkaba Jewelry

1.19ct Unheated Burmese Lilac Sapphire Platinum Diamond Ring Merkaba Jewelry

By Merkaba

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Refined, romantic, and exceptionally rare, this 1.19 carat unheated Burmese lilac sapphire ring is

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Multi-gemstone, Pink Sapphire, Sapphire, Platinum

Aria Jewelry Design Multi-Color Sapphire Necklace, 19-Inch Adjustable
Aria Jewelry Design Multi-Color Sapphire Necklace, 19-Inch Adjustable

Aria Jewelry Design Multi-Color Sapphire Necklace, 19-Inch Adjustable

By Aria Jewelry Design

Located in Raleigh, NC

variety) and the rare padparadscha sapphire (found in Sri Lanka). Sapphires owe their blue color to trace

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Artisan Beaded Necklaces

Materials

Sapphire

NWT $295, 000 18KT Gold Certified Magnificent 140CT Sapphire Diamond Necklace
NWT $295, 000 18KT Gold Certified Magnificent 140CT Sapphire Diamond Necklace

NWT $295, 000 18KT Gold Certified Magnificent 140CT Sapphire Diamond Necklace

Located in New York, NY

Necklace with Magnificent Rare Sparkling Sapphires Flanked by Fine Glittering Diamonds. An Outstanding

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Drop Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold

Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire Stone 2.39 carats with GIA Report / JupiterGem
Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire Stone 2.39 carats with GIA Report / JupiterGem

Natural Unheated Purple Sapphire Stone 2.39 carats with GIA Report / JupiterGem

Located in Los Angeles, CA

unheated purple sapphire is a rare and valuable gemstone, ideal for creating a standout custom jewelry

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Loose Gemstones

Materials

Sapphire, Purple Sapphire

GRS & GIA Cert. NO HEAT 4.92ct Royal Blue Sapphire Ring with Diamonds
GRS & GIA Cert. NO HEAT 4.92ct Royal Blue Sapphire Ring with Diamonds

GRS & GIA Cert. NO HEAT 4.92ct Royal Blue Sapphire Ring with Diamonds

Located in Irvine, CA

Exquisite 'Royal Blue' 4.92ct unheated sapphire ring with halo diamonds, featuring a rare natural

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold

2.55ct Deep Blue Green Bi Colour Sapphire & Diamond Platinum Three Stone Ring
2.55ct Deep Blue Green Bi Colour Sapphire & Diamond Platinum Three Stone Ring

2.55ct Deep Blue Green Bi Colour Sapphire & Diamond Platinum Three Stone Ring

By Gems and Jewels UK

Located in Birmingham, GB

colour variation. Similarly seen in watermelon tourmaline. Much rarer in sapphires. This stone also has

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Green Sapphire, Platinum

Vintage 14.25 Carat Oval Cabochon Star Sapphire Cocktail Ring with Diamonds
Vintage 14.25 Carat Oval Cabochon Star Sapphire Cocktail Ring with Diamonds

Vintage 14.25 Carat Oval Cabochon Star Sapphire Cocktail Ring with Diamonds

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

This magnificent lady's star sapphire and diamond ring is a truly rare and captivating piece

Category

20th Century Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Star Sapphire, Platinum

Peter Suchy GIA 3.13 Carat Purple Sapphire Diamond Engagement Platinum Ring
Peter Suchy GIA 3.13 Carat Purple Sapphire Diamond Engagement Platinum Ring

Peter Suchy GIA 3.13 Carat Purple Sapphire Diamond Engagement Platinum Ring

By Peter Suchy

Located in Stamford, CT

rare purple sapphire and sparkling diamonds creates a stunning contrast. 1 Bright purple Sapphire

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Purple Sapphire, Platinum

NWT 39, 000 Rare 18KT Gold Fancy Cut Glittering Tanzanite Diamond Bangle Bracelet
NWT 39, 000 Rare 18KT Gold Fancy Cut Glittering Tanzanite Diamond Bangle Bracelet

NWT 39, 000 Rare 18KT Gold Fancy Cut Glittering Tanzanite Diamond Bangle Bracelet

Located in New York, NY

The Following Item we are offering is a Rare Important Radiant 18KT Gold Large Magnificent Rare

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Cuff Bracelets

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold

Certified Color Changing Padparadscha Pink Sapphire Dangle Platinum Earrings
Certified Color Changing Padparadscha Pink Sapphire Dangle Platinum Earrings

Certified Color Changing Padparadscha Pink Sapphire Dangle Platinum Earrings

By Gad & Co.

Located in Miami, FL

known as a "Padparadscha" Sapphire, one of the most rare forms of Sapphire found in nature. Complete

Category

2010s African Modern Dangle Earrings

Materials

Pink Sapphire, Platinum

  • 1
  • ...
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Rare Sapphire", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Rare Sapphire For Sale on 1stDibs

On 1stDibs, you can find the most appropriate rare sapphire for your needs in our varied inventory. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using Gold, 18k Gold and 14k Gold. In our selection of items, you can find a vintage example as well as a contemporary version. Finding the perfect rare sapphire may mean sifting through those created during different time periods — you can find an early version that dates to the 19th Century and a newer variation that were made as recently as the 21st Century. There have been many well-made iterations of the classic rare sapphire over the years, but those made by Natkina, Fine Jewels UK and Gemjunky are often thought to be among the most beautiful. A rare sapphire can make for a versatile accessory, but a selection from our variety of 128 Sapphire versions can add an especially stylish touch. Today, if you’re looking for a round cut version of this piece and are unable to find the perfect match, our selection also includes oval cut and cushion cut alternatives. Finding a rare sapphire for sale for women should be easy, but there are 60 pieces available to browse for unisex as well as men, too.

How Much is a Rare Sapphire?

The price for a rare sapphire starts at $100 and tops out at $485,000 with these rings, on average, selling for $5,800.

The Legacy of Sapphire in Jewelry Design

On 1stDibs, shop the bright blue gems that star in sapphire rings, sapphire necklaces and other vintage and antique sapphire jewelry

Sapphires — the stone of choice for Napoleon, Princess Diana and Elizabeth Taylor — have been a favorite of aristocrats and the well-to-do since the time of the Ancient Greeks.

Picture a sapphire. If the stone you conjure is a deep cornflower blue, you’re seeing only part of the picture. Although blue Kashmirs are considered the most valuable, sapphires come in every color except red. No matter the hue, this very special gem is rich in history and beloved by royals (FYI, Princess Diana and Kate Middleton share an 11-carat sapphire engagement ring), so September babies are in very noble company.

America’s version of royalty — old money and celebrities — have also shown a predilection for the blue stones. In 1940, John D. Rockefeller Jr. had Cartier mount a 62-carat sapphire he had bought from an Indian maharajah in a brooch for his first wife, Abby Aldrich Rockefeller; in 2001, the piece sold for a then-record of $3,031,000 at Christie’s New York.

The grand dame of jewelry, Elizabeth Taylor had a passion for the gems that her lovers were happy to indulge. Second husband Michael Wilding gave her an engagement ring set with a cabochon sapphire, while Richard Burton famously presented her with a BVLGARI sautoir set with diamonds and sapphires, including at its center a cabochon Burmese weighing 52.72 carats. One of the star lots in the sale of Taylor’s jewels at the Christie’s New York in 2011, it sold for $5,906,500.

You don’t have to have blue blood or a bulging bank account, however, to get an eyeful of this much-coveted gem. A number of outstanding examples reside in public collections.

The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History owns the 423-carat Logan sapphire, a gift from the Guggenheim family, and the Hall sapphire and diamond necklace, designed by Harry Winston and featuring 36 fine, well-matched cushion-cut Sri Lankan sapphires weighing a combined 195 carats. Also in the collection is the Bismarck sapphire necklace, designed by Cartier and sporting a central sapphire weighing 98.6 carats, which Mona Von Bismarck donated to the museum.

Sapphires are composed of corundum. Their color derives from trace elements, such as iron, titanium, chromium, copper or magnesium. When the trace element produces a ruby hue, the stone is called, what else, a ruby. (which is, as mentioned above, why sapphires cannot be red by definition).

The allure of large gemstones endures throughout the periods characterized as vintage, and sapphire features frequently in vintage engagement rings. (On 1stDibs, a range of buying guides can be found for those in the market for antique engagement ringsvintage engagement rings or Art Deco engagement rings.)  

Find an exquisite collection of vintage and antique sapphire jewelry on 1stDibs.

Questions About Rare Sapphire
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
    Yes, a star sapphire is rarer than other types of sapphires. The gemstones get their name from the natural starburst effect that appears on their faces when you view them under a single overhead light. On 1stDibs, shop a range of star sapphire gemstone jewelry.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
    Yes, natural purple star sapphires are rarer than sapphires of other colors like blue. Natural purple star sapphires come in a variety of hues from light lavender to deep violet. Sapphires can even be colorless, or white, although examples are very rare, since the corundum from which they are formed has to have been untouched by any other element. Non-blue colored sapphires are referred to as “fancy sapphires” and can be pink, purple, orange, yellow or green. Shop a collection of vintage and modern sapphire jewelry from some of the world’s top jewelers on 1stDibs.