4.16ct Padparadscha Sapphire and Old Mine Cushion Diamond Three Stone Ring

Director’s Notes

Padparadscha sapphires are a particularly special variety of sapphire as they are the rarest of colours that sapphires are naturally found in. True padparadschas are a unique blend of pink and orange, exhibiting elements of both these colours in the same stone. Historically found only in Ceylon, the name ‘padparadscha’ (pronounced pad-per-add-sha) is derived from the ancient Sanskrit word ‘padmaraga’ referring to the colour of a lotus flower. However, most lotus blossoms are actually more pink than orange so today it is often thought of as a mix of lotus pink and sunset orange. Due to their rarity these stones are amongst the most expensive in the world. As with all gemstones, those that are certified untreated attract a premium as many are heated to improve the colour. Therefore, gems such as this one which has received no treatment are particularly rare and desirable. Today these beautiful orangey-pink sapphires can also be found in Vietnam, Tanzania and Madagascar. The spotlight was turned on these beautiful gems when Princess Eugenie became engaged with one in 2018. As with all sapphires, padparadschas are hard and durable which makes them ideal for setting in rings, particularly ones which will be worn every day such as an engagement ring.