When it comes to gemstones, nothing captures the eye quite like colour change sapphires and spinels. These rare gems don’t just sit and look pretty; they interact with light and environment, offering you two hues depending on where you stand. Want to hear more? Carry on reading...
What Are Colour Change Gems?
Colour change sapphires and spinels are the chameleons of gemstones. Their unique ability to shift colours comes from trace elements in their crystal structure, like vanadium or chromium. The real magic happens under different lighting. This 1.40 carat sapphire seen here on your left: in daylight, gives us an amber or brown colour, but under candlelight, it transforms into a teal green hue. Spinels, on the other hand, are equally dramatic—think cobalt blue turning to a deep purple with a change in lighting.
Why does this happen? It all comes down to the way these gemstones absorb and reflect light. Under cooler daylight, they reveal one set of colours; under warmer incandescent light, another. It’s as if they were designed to thrive in every setting, always keeping you guessing.
How Rare Are They?
If you’re after something truly uncommon, colour change stones are for you. These gems are a tiny fraction of the world’s sapphire and spinel reserves, which makes finding them all the more thrilling. The finest examples come from Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Madagascar, where the earth holds some of its most vivid secrets.
Caring for Colour Change Gems
Like all natural gemstones, colour change sapphires and spinels are durable, but not indestructible. A gentle clean with warm water and mild soap will keep their colour-shifting game on point. And while they’re tough enough for everyday wear, it’s always a good idea to store them in a soft pouch to avoid scratches from harder stones.
Your Turn to Explore
Curious to see a colour change sapphire or spinel? We occassionally get them in, so keep a look out so that you don't miss out. If you can't wait, get in touch and we'll source one just for you.
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