When it comes to choosing the perfect yellow gemstone for an engagement ring or other jewellery, it can be a difficult decision to make. Both yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds are popular choices for those seeking a vibrant and stunning piece of jewellery, but which is the right choice for you?

Read on to discover everything you need to know about yellow sapphires vs yellow diamonds!

Understanding The Colors Of Sapphires And Diamonds

When choosing the perfect gemstone, colour is often one of the most important factors to consider. For those who prefer a sunny and vibrant hue, yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds are two popular options.

But, did you know that the intensity of the yellow colour can greatly impact the appearance and value of these gemstones?

Yellow Sapphires

Yellow sapphires can come in various shades, from light and subtle yellow to a deep and intense yellow-orange. The amount of iron and titanium present in the sapphire determines the intensity of the yellow colour. A higher concentration of these minerals will produce a more vivid and intense yellow hue.

Yellow Diamonds

Similar to yellow sapphires, the intensity of the yellow colour in diamonds is determined by trace elements, specifically nitrogen. A higher nitrogen concentration will result in a more vivid and intense yellow hue.

When grading yellow diamonds, the intensity of the yellow colour is evaluated on a scale ranging from faint yellow to fancy vivid yellow. The more intense the yellow colour, the more valuable the diamond is considered to be.

Yellow Sapphires Vs Yellow Diamonds

Yellow Sapphires Vs Yellow Diamonds

Yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds are both stunning gemstones that make for unique and eye-catching jewellery pieces. But, how do they compare with each other? 

Let's take a closer look at these factors.

Durability

Both yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds are considered to be durable gemstones, with a high level of hardness that makes them resistant to scratches and everyday wear and tear. 

However, yellow diamonds are slightly more durable than yellow sapphires due to their higher hardness level. Yellow diamonds are rated a 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, while yellow sapphires are rated a 9. This means that yellow diamonds are less likely to chip or scratch over time.

Rarity

Yellow diamonds are a rare and sought-after gemstone, with only a small percentage of diamonds naturally occurring in yellow colour. This rarity makes them more valuable and expensive compared to other diamond colours.

On the other hand, yellow sapphires are more readily available and are found in a range of yellow shades, making them a more affordable alternative to yellow diamonds.

Will They Fade?

Both yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds are resistant to fading over time. Unlike other gemstones, such as amethyst or aquamarine, yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds are not affected by exposure to sunlight or other environmental factors.

However, taking proper care of your jewellery is still important to prevent any damage or discolouration.

Cost

When it comes to cost, yellow sapphires are generally less expensive than yellow diamonds due to their higher availability. Yellow diamonds, especially those with a deeper and more intense yellow colour, can be quite expensive and are considered a luxury item. However, the cost of yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds can vary greatly depending on factors such as colour intensity, size, and overall quality.

Color Intensity

Yellow Sapphires

The intensity of the yellow colour is one of the most important factors to consider when distinguishing between yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds. Yellow diamonds typically have a more intense and vivid yellow colour compared to yellow sapphires, which tend to have a lighter and more subtle yellow hue. This is because diamonds contain more nitrogen, which contributes to the intensity of the yellow colour.

Clarity

Yellow diamonds tend to have a higher clarity compared to yellow sapphires. This is because diamonds are formed deep within the earth's mantle, where they are subjected to high pressure and temperature which results in fewer impurities. In contrast, yellow sapphires often contain more inclusions, which can affect their overall clarity.

Sparkle

Yellow diamonds are known for their exceptional sparkle and brilliance, which is due to their high refractive index. Yellow sapphires, while still beautiful, do not have the same level of sparkle and brilliance as yellow diamonds.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds share a similar yellow hue, several important differences exist to consider. 

Yellow diamonds offer a more intense and vivid yellow colour, exceptional sparkle, and exceptional durability, but they can also come with a higher price tag. Yellow sapphires, on the other hand, offer a more affordable alternative with a lighter and more subtle yellow hue, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious people.

Ultimately, the choice between yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds depends on your personal preferences, budget, and what you value most in a gemstone.

FAQs

Which gemstone is more suitable for everyday wear - yellow sapphires or yellow diamonds?

Both yellow sapphires and yellow diamonds are durable and suitable for everyday wear, but yellow diamonds are slightly harder and more resistant to scratches.

Which is more expensive, yellow diamond or yellow sapphire?

Yellow sapphires are considerably more affordable than yellow diamonds, especially when comparing larger carat-weight stones. As the carat weight decreases, the price difference between the two gemstones becomes less significant.

How can I tell if my yellow sapphire or diamond is real?

To determine whether your yellow sapphire or diamond is real, there are a few methods you can use:

  1. Use a diamond tester: A diamond tester can identify whether a stone is a diamond or not. However, this method won't work for sapphires.
  2. Check for imperfections: Look at the stone under a loupe or microscope for any imperfections or inclusions. A real diamond or sapphire will have some natural imperfections, while a fake one will be almost perfect.
  3. Perform a water test: Fill a glass with water and drop the stone in it. A real diamond or sapphire will sink to the bottom, while a fake one will float or remain suspended in the water.
  4. Conduct a heat test: Hold the stone with a pair of tweezers and heat it with a lighter for about 30 seconds. The heat will not affect a real diamond, while a fake one will likely shatter or be damaged.

If you're still unsure, it's best to take your stone to a certified gemologist who can accurately determine whether it's a real diamond or a sapphire.