Diamonds vs. White Sapphires: Which to Choose?
The decision to get a white sapphire or diamond jewelry solely depends on the preferences of the customer. Do you want something that is retro or in vogue? What type of material do you prefer?
Finally, you need to know what kind of gemstone should be incorporated into the setting. However, if you want something quite rare, then white sapphire could be the best option. But if you are looking for something more traditional that is going to look elegant and good no matter what era you are in, then diamond jewelry should be your choice. In this article, we will learn more about both of these diamonds and white sapphires.
Both of these are wonderful, but there are certain clear differences between them, making them suitable for specific purposes. Let’s get into the details now.
Key Takeaways
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Price Difference Between White Sapphire and Diamond
When comparing white sapphire and diamond jewelry, they may seem very alike, but there are some distinctions. Both are distinguished, gleaming gems that help lend formality and style to any apparel. However, one thing that sets it apart most significantly is price.
Diamonds are much rarer and thus costlier than white sapphires of equal size and quality. A 50-carat diamond could be anywhere from $6,500 to $15,000. A 50-carat white sapphire is going to cost an average of $1,200 to $1,500 range. When you are creating a budget, remember this.
Price Comparison
Carat Size |
Diamond Price Range |
White Sapphire Price Range |
1.50 carat |
$6,500 - $15,000 |
$1,200 - $1,500 |
Durability
Now, let’s talk about the durability of both of these - diamonds and white sapphires. If you want any piece that will last a beautiful memory, then you should go for the more durable one. This will create the real charms.
Diamonds
Extremely Durable: Diamonds are the hardest materials in the whole universe known by men.
Mohs Scale Rating: Diamonds even get a 'ten' when it comes to the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.
Wear and Tear: Diamonds are hardstones that can, therefore, endure more abuse, and they are therefore well suited for everyday wear, such as in engagement and wedding rings.
White Sapphires
Very Durable: However white sapphires are not as tough as diamonds, but still, they are not very easy to scratch and wear out.
Mohs Scale Rating: Specially, white sapphires are ranked 9th on the Mohs scale.
Practically: Slightly less hard compared to diamonds, white sapphires are wearable on a daily basis; however, they are required to be handled gently to prevent scratching or any kind of damage.
Color and Sparkle
Diamonds
Pure Sparkle: Diamonds are mainly known to shine brightly and be free from any sort of blemish or flaw.
Colorless or lightly tinted: Some of the most common diamonds for jewelry are colorless or very slightly colored, or what is termed 'white'.
High refractive Index: This leads to the dispersal of light into rainbow colors, a feature referred to as fire in diamond cultivation.
White Sapphires
Subtle Sparkle: White sapphires indeed look differently than diamonds as they have different types of luster.Paler Appearance: They may sometimes look colder or coarser, especially when set alongside particular metals like silver or platinum.
Color Variation: White sapphires may have slight color variations, sometimes with a pale blue hue, adding a unique touch to the jewelry.
Metal Pairings With These Stones
When it comes to the selection of metals for a white sapphire and a diamond, both are different but have choices that reflect their properties. Even still white sapphires are often more beautiful when cast in silver or platinum as these cool metals intensify the brilliance and sophisticated demeanor of the stone. Yellow gold also pairs well with white sapphires because of this contrast and is versatile, though prone to losing its sheen with time without adequate care.
At the same time, diamonds are famous for their compatibility with any kind of metal that can be used for making jewelry. Especially when used with yellow and rose gold, it offers a vintage appearance that is both elegant and timeless while showcasing that sparkle. Diamonds usually have regenerated color or clarity, and they look even more beautiful when set on particular metals, which is why diamonds can be a perfect match for any kind of jewelry.
Quick Comparison Table
Factor |
Diamonds |
White Sapphires |
Price |
$6,500 - $15,000 (1.50 carats) |
$1,200 - $1,500 (1.50 carats) |
Durability |
10 on Mohs scale |
9 on Mohs scale |
Color |
Colorless or lightly tinted |
Icy, snowy, sometimes pale blue |
Sparkle |
High brilliance and fire |
Subtle, silvery sparkle |
Best Paired With |
All metals |
Silver, platinum, yellow gold |
Benefits of Owning Diamond Jewelry
Investment Value: Diamonds are not prone to depreciation since they are valued highly in the market regardless of the age of the product. They are viewed as long-term securities and hold the potential for an increase in market price.
Symbol of Love: Diamonds are recognized as symbols of love and loyalty and are commonly used for making engagement rings, as well as wedding bands. Their permanency is captured by the phrase ‘a diamond is forever’ implying that the emotion being expressed is eternal.
Variety: Diamonds are produced in many shapes, including round, princess, emerald shapes, and much more, and can also be obtained in different styles and colors, including yellow, blue, pink, and much more.
Durability: Diamonds are recommended for normal usage since they are hard. Diamonds are not easily scratched or damaged, and they do not lose their shine even when used in everyday activities.
Benefits of Owning White Sapphire Jewelry
Cost-Effective: White sapphires are much cheaper compared to those diamonds that are usually used for engagement rings. They have a similar appearance yet come with the added bonus of not being costly.
Elegant Appearance: They are glamorous and provide an elegant touch because they sparkle like ice. Surprisingly, white sapphires are not inferior to diamonds and can, in fact, be just as stunning.
Versatility: Appropriate for all types of jewelry, including bridal jewelry such as engagement rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, among others. Because they are distinctive in appearance, they can be used to come up with diverse and complicated styles of jewelry.
September Birthstone: White sapphire is the month’s birthstone stone, so, it is ideal for presenting it to someone who is born in September. It is also associated with wisdom and purity.
Conclusion
Choosing the right gemstone depends on your personal preferences, budget, and what you value most in your jewelry. Whether you go for the timeless elegance of diamonds or the unique charm of white sapphires, both options can make stunning and meaningful pieces of jewelry.
FAQs
1. What makes diamonds more expensive than white sapphires?
Diamonds are generally more costly due to their rarity and the complex process of mining and cutting them.
2. Which gemstone is more durable, white sapphire or diamond?
Diamonds are more durable than white sapphires due to their hardness on the Mohs scale.
3. Do white sapphires sparkle like diamonds?
White sapphires have a different sparkle than diamonds; they tend to be more subtle in their brilliance.
4. Which metal pairs best with diamonds and white sapphires?
Diamonds look great with yellow gold and rose gold, while white sapphires shine in silver and platinum settings.