Padparadscha is a very rare, valued, pinkish-orange colored sapphire. Its primary deposits are located in Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Africa. The name derives from the Sinhalese word for lotus blossom. Padparadscha and Ruby are the only corundums to be given their own name instead of being called a particular colored sapphire. The vast majority of padparadscha sapphires and most other colors of sapphire are heated in varying temperatures to enrich color and improve clarity. The ideal color should not be orange nor pink but the unique color resulting from the perfect combination of those tones. In 1938, Carroll F. Chatham, a scientist from San Francisco after many years of research and great determination, discovered the technique of growing gems. His theory was that by, replicating the natural conditions deep within the earth, the appropriate temperatures, pressures and chemicals, he would be capable of growing a gem in his laboratory. Based on his theory, at a fraction of the cost of a mined gem, he could grow gemstones possessing the same physical, chemical, spectral and optical qualities of mined gems. Chatham Created Blue Sapphire was first developed in 1980. An accomplishment of brilliance, the art of producing these gems remains within the Chatham family only.
GEM = Eye Clean to Very Minimal Eye Visible Inclusions, Medium to Light Red Orangey Pink, Good Cut, Good Polish.
Moh's Hardness = 9.
Moh's Hardness = 9.
