Ah, sapphires. Not just the blue gemstone from your grandmother’s engagement ring or that tiara from your late-night royal drama binge. Sapphires are a rainbow-hued, ethically complex, and surprisingly valuable gemstone that are much more than their “September birthstone” label lets on.
So let’s break it down—without the McJeweler fluff. How much are sapphires worth today? Which color is the most expensive? And while we’re at it, are sapphires really worth more than diamonds? (Spoiler: sometimes, yes.) Whether you’re here to make a wise investment, finally treat yourself, or find that just-right Montana sapphire that won’t trigger your ethical radar, this guide is your jewelry hero moment.
How Much Is Sapphire Worth Today?
If you're expecting a flat rate, think again—pricing sapphires isn’t as straightforward as pricing something like gold. Sapphires are colored gemstones, and colored gemstones march to the beat of their own appraisal drum. The worth of a sapphire today depends on a mix of factors: color, clarity, cut, carat weight, and origin. And, in the last few decades, we’ve seen this gemstone evolve from an underappreciated classic to a hot-ticket item for collectors and conscious consumers alike.
Currently, the price per carat of sapphires ranges from around $50 for lower-grade material to well over $10,000 for top-quality stones, especially those that are untreated, have exceptional color saturation, or hail from prestige locales like Kashmir, Burma, or (yes!) Montana.
But that’s just a snapshot. To really appreciate sapphire value today, let’s take a quick time-travel journey.
A Look Back: Sapphire Pricing Over the Last 50 Years
Fifty years ago, in the 1970s, sapphires were beloved but not the juggernaut in public demand that they are now. Back then, blue sapphires were known and appreciated as the birthstone of September and a symbol of loyalty and protection—but they weren’t experiencing the kind of price action we see today.
In the '70s and '80s, you could buy high-quality sapphires for a fraction of today’s prices. A one-carat fine blue sapphire might’ve sold for $100–$500—a tidy sum at the time, but pocket change compared to what similar quality fetches today. Fast forward to the early 2000s, and the prices began climbing. Why? Increased demand, more awareness around untreated stones, and the rise of global gemstone investing. And then came the boom in ethical sourcing and American origin stories, and sapphires—especially Montana sapphires—had their moment in the limelight.
Today, that same one-carat fine blue sapphire might range anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000—and even more for exceptional stones. Certain colors, like Padparadscha or vibrant pinks, have surged even higher in value due to rarity and aesthetic appeal.
Notably, Montana sapphires, once considered too subtle in hue to compete globally, have become highly sought-after for their traceable sourcing, unique hues, and story-rich origin. The rise in public desire for transparency and ethical jewelry has only further pushed their value upward in the last 15 years. As a result, Montana sapphires are no longer the regional secret they once were—they’re now recognized globally, with pricing that reflects both their scarcity and story.
Ancient Reverence, Modern Revival
Let’s rewind even further—say, a few thousand years. Sapphires have been prized since antiquity. In ancient Persia, it was believed the sky itself was painted blue by reflections of massive sapphire slabs beneath the Earth. Greek and Roman elites wore them as protection from envy and harm. In medieval Europe, clergy and royalty favored sapphires for their association with divine wisdom and celestial insight. These weren't just gems—they were symbols of power, virtue, and spiritual purity.
While sapphires weren't priced in dollars back then (obviously), they were seen as one of the most valuable gemstones available—often more desirable than diamonds. In many cases, sapphires were used in signet rings, crown jewels, and talismans, and were traded along the Silk Road alongside emeralds and rubies as indicators of status and taste.
Unlike today’s market, where price can be quantified with precision, sapphire value in ancient and pre-modern times was based on rarity, lore, and symbolic weight. A deep blue sapphire was a sign of divine favor. A color-shifting gem was believed to have magical properties. And if a gemstone could be traced to a specific locale (as many sapphires were, like those from Sri Lanka or the famed Kashmir region), its value rose accordingly—even without certification.
The Takeaway
So, how much are sapphires worth today? They're worth more than ever—both financially and symbolically. Prices have surged steadily over the past 50 years and show no signs of slowing, especially for untreated, ethically sourced, and uniquely colored stones.
Sapphires were valued in the past for their mysticism and beauty. Today, we add traceability, rarity, and ethical sourcing to the equation. Which means their true worth? It goes far beyond the price tag.
What Color Sapphire Is the Most Expensive?
Blue sapphires are the classic icons, but it’s the Padparadscha sapphire—a rare pink-orange blend—that takes the top spot in the sapphire price Olympics. These tropical-sunset-toned gems are as rare as an honest Instagram filter.
The name Padparadscha (pronounced pad-pah-RAH-shah) comes from the Sinhalese word for "lotus blossom," referencing the delicate, peachy-pink hue of the sacred flower found in Sri Lanka. That alone gives you a hint at how special these gems are—they’re not named for fire or royalty or gods, but for a fleeting moment of beauty in nature. And in the world of gemstones, Padparadscha sapphires are every bit as poetic as their namesake.
What makes them so rare isn’t just their color, but how impossibly difficult it is to find that perfect balance of pink and orange. Too pink, and you’ve got a pink sapphire. Too orange, and it's classified differently. A true Padparadscha walks a razor-thin chromatic line. They are typically found in Sri Lanka (their ancestral home), and more recently in Madagascar and Tanzania—but truly fine examples from any source are few and far between.
Historically, Padparadschas were often reserved for royalty or spiritual leaders, believed to embody enlightenment and emotional balance. Because of their unique blend of fire and softness, they’re said to symbolize harmony, creative energy, and the rare gift of inner peace. In modern times, their rarity and romantic hue have made them a coveted choice for collectors and those looking for a truly non-traditional engagement stone.
Due to their delicate coloration, Padparadschas are often left untreated, or only minimally enhanced with heat, which makes natural specimens especially valuable. Their prices can soar into five-figure-per-carat territory, particularly for stones with even color distribution and strong saturation.
In a world dominated by blue sapphires, Padparadschas are the unicorns—whimsical, elusive, and uncommonly beautiful.
But let’s not forget the rest of the rainbow:
Sapphire Colors and Their Worth: A Deep Dive by Shade
- Blue Sapphires – The most iconic and traditionally beloved sapphire variety, blue sapphires owe their rich color to trace amounts of iron and titanium. The color ranges from velvety royal blue to deep navy, with medium to vivid saturated tones being the most prized. The finest blue sapphires historically come from Kashmir, Burma (Myanmar), and Sri Lanka. Today, high-quality blue sapphires also come from Madagascar and Australia. The famous Logan Sapphire, housed at the Smithsonian, is a prime example at 422.99 carats. Simulants include blue spinel, tanzanite, and blue topaz, but they lack sapphire’s durability and brilliance. Price range: $400 to $10,000+ per carat.
- Pink Sapphires – Colored by trace amounts of chromium, pink sapphires range from soft baby pinks to vibrant magentas. The more chromium present, the more intense the pink; if the stone has too much chromium, it may be reclassified as ruby. Fine pink sapphires are found in Sri Lanka, Montana, Madagascar, and Myanmar. The Queen Victoria Pink Sapphire Brooch is one famous historical piece. Morganite, pink tourmaline, and rose quartz are often confused or substituted for pink sapphires. Price range: $300 to $6,000 per carat.
- White Sapphires – Lacking any trace elements, white sapphires are essentially pure corundum. Their colorless appearance makes them a popular, more affordable alternative to diamonds, though they lack the fire (dispersion) and brilliance that diamonds offer. Sources include Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Thailand. Though not famous for specific pieces, white sapphires are frequently seen in alternative bridal jewelry. Moissanite, cubic zirconia, and lab-grown diamonds are the most common simulants. Price range: $50 to $500 per carat.
- Green Sapphires – Caused by iron content, green sapphires can range from pale mint to deep forest green. The saturation tends to be muted or grayish, with teal-toned greens (especially from Montana) growing in popularity. Most green sapphires are mined in Australia, Thailand, and the U.S. (Montana). They are relatively rare in high-end jewelry but are prized by connoisseurs for their uniqueness. Common simulants include peridot, green tourmaline, and synthetic spinel. Price range: $200 to $1,000 per carat.
- Black Sapphires – These get their inky color from heavy inclusions of hematite or magnetite. Unlike transparent sapphires, black sapphires are opaque and often used in men’s jewelry or bold statement designs. They are primarily mined in Australia and Thailand. While not rare, their sleek, modern look has a strong following. They are often confused with onyx or black spinel, which are softer and less durable. Price range: $50 to $300 per carat.
- Yellow Sapphires – Colored by trace amounts of iron, yellow sapphires range from pale lemon to intense golden hues. High-clarity, unheated yellow sapphires are particularly desirable and are often used in Vedic astrology for Jupiter-related energy. The most notable sources are Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Montana and Tanzania. Yellow sapphires are frequently confused with citrine, yellow beryl (heliodor), and yellow topaz. Price range: $150 to $2,000+ per carat depending on saturation and treatment.
- Orange Sapphires – This fiery hue comes from a mix of iron and chromium, giving stones a spicy, sunset-like color. Orange sapphires are rare and underappreciated in the mainstream market, but are beloved by collectors for their vibrancy. The best specimens hail from Sri Lanka and Tanzania. Occasionally, orange sapphires are mistaken for spessartite garnet or fire opal, though both are softer and less suited for everyday wear. Price range: $300 to $4,000 per carat.
- Padparadscha Sapphires – A breathtaking fusion of pink and orange, this rare variety is colored by both chromium and iron. The perfect padparadscha strikes a delicate balance between salmon and peach tones. Sri Lanka is the origin and still the most reputable source, although Madagascar and Tanzania have also yielded specimens. These gems are so rare that some gemologists debate exact classification boundaries. A famous modern example is Princess Eugenie’s engagement ring, which features a padparadscha sapphire center stone. Attempted simulants include peach morganite and colored synthetic sapphire. Price range: $5,000 to $20,000+ per carat.
Are Sapphires More Expensive Than Diamonds?
This one gets a big “it depends.”
Commercial-grade sapphires are generally less expensive than commercial-grade diamonds. But start dipping into the waters of rare, untreated, vividly colored sapphires, and they can out-price diamonds per carat—easily.
What’s more? Sapphires are rarer than diamonds in nature. Diamonds may be forever, but sapphires are forever and less likely to be the product of clever marketing.
Are Sapphires Worth a Lot of Money?
Absolutely. But—like with all fine gems—the devil’s in the details. Sapphires can be surprisingly affordable... or they can be investment-level gemstones worth more per carat than diamonds. The difference lies in how a particular sapphire stacks up across five key criteria: origin, color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.Origin: Not All Dirt is Created Equal
Where a sapphire comes from can dramatically affect its value—sometimes doubling or tripling the price of an otherwise similar stone. Certain regions are famed for producing stones with distinct, revered characteristics. For example: - Kashmir sapphires (with their dreamy, velvety blue) are essentially the Fabergé eggs of the sapphire world—ultra rare, historic, and astronomically priced. - Burma (Myanmar) produces rich royal blues with exceptional saturation and clarity. - Sri Lanka (Ceylon) sapphires are known for their lively brilliance and a wide range of hues. - And of course, Montana sapphires, especially the ethically sourced all-American kind we specialize in at Alara, are making waves for their unique color palettes and traceable origin—adding emotional and ethical value that speaks to modern collectors. Bottom line: a sapphire’s birthplace matters. Think terroir, but for gemstones.Color: The Hue That Rules Them All
Color is the first—and most emotionally resonant—indicator of value in a sapphire. Sapphires come in a kaleidoscope of colors, but it’s not just the shade that matters. It’s the tone (light to dark), saturation (intensity), and uniformity that drive price. For blue sapphires, that perfect medium-deep, vividly saturated, slightly velvety royal blue is the gold standard. Padparadscha sapphires must walk a razor-fine line between pink and orange to even qualify. Uncommon shades like teal, peach, or color-change sapphires draw collectors because of their rarity—and Montana is full of these surprises. A fine sapphire with stunning, even color—especially if it's untreated—can command some serious coin. And unlike trends in fashion or car paint, sapphire color preferences tend to stay remarkably consistent over time.Clarity: Nature’s Fingerprints—Some Welcome, Some Not
Unlike diamonds, sapphires are not expected to be internally flawless. In fact, some inclusions can be seen as desirable (like the silky clouds that give Kashmir sapphires their glow, or the rutile needles responsible for star sapphires’ asterism). However, for traditional faceted sapphires: The clearer the stone, the higher the price—as long as the clarity doesn’t come from heavy treatments. Eye-clean stones (where no inclusions are visible to the naked eye) are highly prized. Large black inclusions, surface cracks, or cloudiness can greatly diminish value. Montana sapphires, for instance, are often less included than sapphires from other regions, which makes them more desirable for both aesthetics and durability.Cut: Beauty Isn’t Just Skin Deep
Sapphires are incredibly tough (a 9 on the Mohs scale), but that hardness also makes them difficult to cut well. A poor cut can make a sapphire look dark, lifeless, or off-center, regardless of how good its raw material is. A well-cut sapphire will: Show off the stone’s color evenly across the face. Maximize sparkle and brilliance through ideal angles and proportions. Be symmetrical, polished, and beautifully finished. In custom work—something we do plenty of here at Alara—the cut becomes a key storytelling element. Sometimes, a custom shape is chosen to highlight a sapphire’s bicolor effect or color-shift nature. That’s when the artistry meets the science, and the result is wearable magic.Carat: Size *Does* Matter (Especially With Rare Colors)
All else being equal, bigger sapphires are exponentially more valuable. A 2-carat sapphire of fine quality isn't just double the price of a 1-carat version—it could be four times as much or more. Why? Because fine sapphires over 2 carats are legitimately rare, especially in uncommon colors or untreated varieties. Large Montana sapphires in rich hues are especially coveted, since many roughs from the region are naturally small. If you find a 3-carat teal Montana sapphire with no heat treatment and a knockout cut—let’s just say that’s unicorn territory.Financial Worth... And More
Sapphires carry weight—not just in carats, but in meaning. They’ve been symbols of wisdom, truth, and nobility for centuries. They adorn royal crowns and modern-day engagement rings. And they’ve become a go-to for people who care about both aesthetics and ethics. So, are sapphires worth a lot of money? Yes. And for good reason. But they’re also worth something more—beauty, individuality, and the thrill of finding a gem that speaks to you. And that’s a kind of value you just can’t spreadsheet.How Much Is a Carat of Sapphire Worth?
| Sapphire Type | Typical Value Per Carat |
|---|---|
| Commercial blue sapphire | $50 – $500 |
| Fine blue sapphire | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Padparadscha | $5,000 – $20,000+ |
| Montana sapphire | $300 – $2,500+ |
| White sapphire | $50 – $500 |
| Black sapphire | $50 – $300 |
| Pink sapphire | $300 – $6,000 |
| Green sapphire | $200 – $1,000 |
Montana Sapphires: The Earth-Conscious Rockstars
Montana sapphires are the ethical overachievers of the sapphire world.
- Natural, often untreated colors
- No child labor. No sketchy middlemen.
- Unique bi-color blends and color-shifting charm
But their value goes far beyond their visual beauty. These American-mined sapphires represent a clean break from the darker side of the global gemstone trade—a side many people don’t even realize exists.
In many sapphire-producing countries like Madagascar, Myanmar, and parts of East Africa and Southeast Asia, the conditions under which sapphires are mined are deeply problematic. Child labor is a persistent issue, with children working long hours in unsafe mines for little to no pay. Informal and unregulated mining operations often mean no safety standards, no environmental controls, and no community support. And because many sapphires pass through a chain of middlemen before reaching international markets, it’s almost impossible to know who mined them, how they were treated, or what local harm may have been caused.
Even when mines are legal, profit rarely stays in the community. Local laborers may be paid pennies for stones that eventually sell for thousands of dollars abroad. In extreme cases, entire ecosystems are damaged through toxic runoff, deforestation, and land mismanagement. There’s often little to no reclamation effort, meaning the land—and the people depending on it—are left in worse shape than before.
That’s why Montana sapphires matter so much.
They’re mined under U.S. labor and environmental laws, which means no child labor, safe working conditions, and ongoing land restoration. Many Montana mining operations are small and locally owned, keeping profits in the community and providing sustainable jobs. The shorter supply chain also means greater transparency—you can often trace a Montana sapphire right back to the mine it came from.
And let’s not forget the aesthetics: Montana sapphires offer some of the most compelling and unusual hues found anywhere. From icy blues to steely teals to chameleon-like color-shifting gems, they’re a designer’s dream and a collector’s delight.
At Alara, we’re proud to be authorities on Montana sapphires. We get early access and "first pick" from our trusted partners and have a long history of sourcing stones that meet not just our visual standards—but our values. Whether you’re looking for something wildly unique or softly romantic, shop our sapphire collection for exclusive pieces you won’t see anywhere else.
Why Alara Is Your Sapphire Whisperer
- We vet our gems—for sustainability, ethics, and beauty
- We speak nerd fluently and joyfully
- We make the process collaborative and fun
Investing in Sapphires: Is It Worth It?
In general, we at Alara do not encourage the concept of jewelry being an investment, primarily because it is not generally purchased with the intention of selling it at a profit. When held for a generation or more, most fine jewelry (including sapphire jewelry), if maintained properly, will show a notable increase in value from its original purchase price.
That said, as gemstone jewelry goes, pieces containing durable gems (mostly diamond, sapphire, and ruby) enjoy far more of an increase in value than pieces set with softer gems.
Sapphires offer durability, rarity, and ethical sourcing. They also shine as heirloom-worthy "investments." Commission a custom piece or shop our sapphire artistry.
So...How Much Are Sapphires Worth to You?
Whether you're collecting, gifting, or building a personal classic, sapphires deliver beauty and value in equal measure.
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