How Rare is a Kashmir Sapphire?

When comes to Kashmir sapphires, we have a quick question in mind that why Kashmir Sapphires are always so rare? There are many reasons which make them so unique and stand out among other sapphires. Here in this article we will discuss them.

The Kashmir Valley is situated in the northernmost region of Pakistan and India. This region is famous for its captivating snow-capped mountains and serene lakes. It is even more renowned for its rich reserves of a diverse variety of gemstones. Kashmir is best known for its exceptional treasures of sapphires. The Kashmir sapphire is one of the rarest and most desired gemstones in the world. These sapphires present an aesthetic blend of natural beauty, rarity and cultural legacy. For centuries, they have been admired for their blue-velvet colour and extraordinary charm by the gemstone collectors.

Let’s explore some of the peculiar characteristics of Kashmiri sapphires that make them highly appreciated by the gem enthusiasts worldwide.

What Makes Kashmir Sapphire Unique?

1. Velvety Cornflower Blue

Kashmir sapphire is known for its enchanting “blue velvet” hue. It is actually deep cornflower blue coloured gemstone with a velvety appearance. The Kashmir sapphires also possess a unique lustre which differentiates them from other varieties. Subtle inclusions of silk in the crystal refract light in a perfectly even manner which gives it a great brilliance. These optical properties of Kashmir sapphires differentiate them from the sapphires of Sri Lanka (Ceylon) and Myanmar (Burma).

2. Rarity and Historical Mining

The Kashmir sapphires were discovered for the first time during 1880s in Paddar region of Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. After this discovery, these gemstones became extremely popular. As a consequence of this popularity, excessive mining of sapphires started in this region. So, in the early 20th century, these mines were depleted. This depletion contributed to the rarity and global demand of these gemstones.

3. Geographical and Political Influence

Kashmir sapphires possess a deep connection to the distinct geology of the Himalayas. Since Kashmir is a disputed territory between India and Pakistan, the mining of Kashmir sapphires has become a difficult task. Consistent mining operations are almost impractical in this area due to its mountainous rocky landscape. These factors further exacerbate the limited supply of these gemstones.

The Origins: A Himalayan Legacy

Indian-Origin Kashmir Sapphires

The Kashmir sapphires were initially mined near the Zanskar valley. This valley is situated in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Under the supervision of Maharaja of Kashmir, these intense blue coloured sapphires were mined in this region. Owing to their elegance, these sapphires gained significant attraction worldwide. This limelight led to excessive increase in mining. Thus, the deposits of Kashmir sapphires were exhausted. So, the mining of sapphires in this area had to be ceased, leaving behind the remnants of its rich legacy.

Pakistani-Origin Kashmir Sapphires

In the recent years, Purplish Pink Kashmir sapphires have been discovered in Azad Kashmir and northernmost areas of Pakistan, specifically in the Batakundi region. These sapphires exhibit vibrant colours ranging from purplish pink to velvet blue. However, their production is limited in this region which contributes to their rarity. Moreover, their quality, though impressive, is still not as consistent as that of the original Indian sapphires.

Geological Composition of Kashmir Sapphires

The Himalayan mountains are the actual birthplace of Kashmir sapphires. They were formed by the complex interaction of tectonic forces of Indian and Eurasian plates. The metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous rocks provide ideal conditions for formation of sapphires. Trace elements like iron and titanium impart deep blue colour. Chromium is responsible for pink and purple hues of these stones.

The Rarity Factors: Why Kashmir Sapphires Are Priceless?

1. Limited Availability

The original Indian mines have already been depleted since the early 20th century. So, nowadays mining is done in Azad Kashmir but this area produces only a limited supply of gem-quality sapphires. This rarity makes the Kashmir sapphires highly sought after by the gem enthusiasts.

2. Exceptional Quality

Kashmir sapphires are esteemed for their lustre and clarity. They are also appreciated for their intense blue hue and velvety appearance. These sapphires are used as a standard for the analysing the quality of other sapphire varieties.

3. High Demand

Kashmir sapphires are in great demand due to their rarity and elegance. Their intense blue hue makes them gem enthusiasts’ favourite stone. Their iconic status and historical significance further contributes to their increased demand in auctions and luxury gemstone markets.

Famous Kashmir Sapphire Sales

1. The Jewel of Kashmir (28 Carats)

The Jewel of Kashmir was auctioned for 6.7 million dollars at Sotheby’s. It was the highest price for per-carat sapphire in 2015.

1. 35.09-Carat Sapphire Ring

In 2015, this sapphire ring was sold for 7.36 million dollars at Christie’s Geneva. This ring serves as a pinnacle for the exceptional quality of Kashmir sapphires.

1. Peacock Sapphire Necklace (109 Carats)

In 2019, peacock sapphire necklace was auctioned for 14.9 million dollars. It was actually a remarkable assemblage of Kashmir sapphires.

Varieties and Other Colors of Kashmir Sapphires

Besides their most appreciated blue violet coloured variety, Kashmir sapphires are also available in a wide range of colours. These include:

• Purplish Pink Sapphires: These sapphires are characterized by red-purple hues. When exposed to ultraviolet radiation, they frequently exhibit fluorescence.
• Lavender and Pink Sapphires: Primary source of these sapphires is Azad Kashmir. Despite being rare, they are more budget-friendly than blue coloured Kashmir sapphires.

Challenges in Mining and Trade

Mining as well as trade of Kashmir sapphires is significantly hindered by the political tension between India and Pakistan. Limited access to these remote areas, harsh weather conditions and mountainous landscape of Azad Kashmir give rise to serious challenges in mining operations. 

Conclusion: A Timeless Legacy

Kashmir sapphires are regarded as the “King of Sapphires”. They have captured the attention of gem enthusiasts from all over the world due to their matchless splendor and natural beauty.

Their exceptional qualities make them highly valued in the global market. Their rarity and elegance highlights them in the world of sapphires. Vintage collections are sold at auctions. New varieties emerge in the market. The charm of Kashmir sapphires continues to be the main attraction for the gem enthusiasts worldwide.