When consumers look for gemstones, one of the first questions they ask is about the price differences of the coveted royal blue sapphire versus the equally coveted cornflower blue sapphire. There typically isn’t one definitive answer to this question. It is a case by case basis depending on where the stones are mined and the clarity and overall scarcity of the stones. Understanding factors that differentiate these stones helps buyers understand what investing in a neelam stone entails.
About the Cornflower Blue Sapphire
The cornflower blue sapphire, is a tranquil blue stone with a beautifully even mid-range blue. The cornflower blue is not too dark or too light, and is regarded as a more enjoyable shade of sapphire to look at.
This type of gemstones is known to fetch the top prices and highest market price if the stones are sourced from Kashmir or Sri Lanka. There is consistent demand for this stone type in the market for gemstones due to the scarcity, and the balanced color tone.
In accordance with the gemstones market price in India, a high quality cornflower blue sapphire priced range is between 1,00,000 to 400,000 in Indian rupees per carat depending on the certification.
About the Royal Blue Sapphire
The royal blue sapphire, on the other hand, is noted for having a relatively darker and more intense tone of blue. The blue color often appears deep and satiny and is associated with wealth and royalty.
Royal blue sapphires have greater availability than cornflower blue sapphire, but the highest quality stones, and especially untreated ones, are still very much in demand.
The cost of blue sapphires typically starts from ₹ 2 lakh per carat and can go as high as ₹ 10 lakh or even more per carat.
Which One Is More Expensive?
General Comparison
Cornflower Blue Sapphire
– Rarer color
– Softer, velvety tone
– Often considered more “classic”
Royal Blue Sapphire
– Deeper, more vivid color
– Higher demand in luxury jewelry
– Wider price range
Although royal blue sapphires can have a high price range in certain rare instances, cornflower blue sapphires are the most sought after color and thus, for top quality pieces, it is more valuable.
Indeed, collector-grade cornflower sapphires can go for exorbitant prices, especially if they are untreated and from Kashmir, and can exceed the prices of royal blue sapphires.
Factors That Affect Price
Colour is not the only thing a neelam stone price depends on. Here are the key factors:
– Origin
The rarest of sapphires (specifically cornflower blue) are Kashmir sapphires, which fetch the highest prices.
– Clarity
Fewer inclusions = higher value.
– Carat Weight
Larger stones cost exponentially more.
– Treatment
Untreated stones sell for much more than heat-treated ones.
Royal Blue vs Cornflower Blue Sapphire
Royal blue is a more saturated tone whereas cornflower blue is less saturated.
Market Reality
In the real market:
– Entry level cornflower blue sapphire is priced between 1-4 lakhs per carat while a premium royal blue sapphire is priced between 2-10 lakhs per carat.
– Rare collector stones in both categories are priced beyond higher.
– This means royal blue sapphire can sometimes be more expensive overall, but the finest cornflower blue sapphire often holds the highest prestige and rarity value.
Final Verdict
So, which is more expensive?
For above average stones, royal blue sapphire would be more expensive.
If investing in the rarest stones, then cornflower blue sapphire would be more valuable.
In less word:
Royal blue = more expensive
Cornflower blue = Greater rarity and prestige
FAQs
- Which is the better sapphire: cornflower blue sapphire vs royal blue sapphire?
Ans. Both are great. While royal blue sapphire is sought after for its deep rich shade, cornflower blue sapphire is preferred for its rarity.
- What makes cornflower blue sapphire so expensive?
Ans. It is bright and well balanced and its rarity is due to limited sources in Kashmir.
- What is the cost of blue sapphire in India?
Ans. The blue sapphire price can range from ₹5,000 to over ₹10 lakh per carat depending on quality.
- Is it wise to invest in neelam stone in 2026?
Ans. Yes, investment in neelam stone is good as the stone may retain it’s value over time and may even appreciate in value, especially in the case of certified or treated stones.
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