Bangkok, 18 January 2024 – Thailand-based gemstone manufacturer Navneet Gems and Minerals launches a collection of responsibly sourced Unheated Color-change Sapphires from Tanzania ranging between 0.50 ct to over 2 cts+ sizes in commercial to fine investment grade qualities.
The collection comprises 50-100 pieces from the Songea region in Tanzania, catering to all preferences—from single stones, and fancy shapes to investment-grade sapphires. Navneet will also unveil a selection of calibrated color-change sapphires ranging from 5mm to 5.5mm, featuring diverse shapes and cuts, notably round brilliant cuts that are well-suited for bracelets and necklaces. Each gemstone is hand-selected and cut in their facility in Thailand.
Agarwal noted an overall lack of education on the beauty and rarity of color-change gemstones. “Consumers might not fully understand the unique color-changing properties of these gemstones. Now, more than ever, color-change gemstones have their place today as people increasingly pursue more distinctive and unique options.”
Agarwal recently took a trip to visit the mines in Songea, Tanzania. “We have been working with these mines for a while and we finally got the chance to visit. This visit proved invaluable, deepening our understanding of the ethical considerations in the industry. We are keen to implement numerous changes, recognizing that some may take time to materialize.”
Chameleon-like Allure
Color-change sapphires are a marvel of nature, yet very few know they exist. Featuring enchanting color transitions, Tanzanian no-heat color-change sapphires exhibit a chameleon-like quality, seamlessly transforming from blue-green hues in natural daylight to a deep pink-purple under incandescent lighting. “There’s an unattainable, untouchable quality that gives color-change sapphire it’s magical allure and beauty,” he said.
Notable sources for color-change sapphires include Sri Lanka and Tanzania, with new material being produced recently in Madagascar. Each stone exhibits varying intensities of color change, making every piece unique. “Although Sri Lanka remains one of the top sources for these gems. The Tanzanian variants boast distinctive colors and showcase a range of hues during the color change, contributing to their special appeal. Ultimately, the true value lies in the eyes of the beholder.”
“Optical phenomena in gemstones in general are not known by most consumers. Even Alexandrite, despite being the foremost color-change gemstone, is not commonly worn, explained Agarwal. “These sapphires have the exceptionally rare attribute of changing colors and there is limited awareness about their unique properties. Its like owning two types of gems for the price of one. Colors may transition from a blue sapphire to a ruby or emerald. You get the best of both worlds,” says Agarwal.
According to Agarwal, unheated natural sapphires in the wholesale market can vary in price, ranging from $300 to $5000 per carat with the pricing being solely contingent on the saturation level of the color change. The collection features eye clean and loupe clean examples ranging between $500 – $1000 per carat for 1ct sizes, 2ct sizes $700 – $1500 per carat $2000-$2700 per carat.
Agarwal looks forward to sharing his collection of unheated color-change sapphires at GJX Booth #2209 Tucson Gem Show 2024 at Navneet Gems & Minerals. He will be at the show from 30 January- 4 February 2024.
