Pleochroism vs. Color Zoning—What Every Sapphire Buyer Needs to Know

Sapphires are some of the most mesmerizing gems in the world, but here’s something most people don’t realize—the color you see depends on how the stone is cut. This is because of two factors:

✔ Pleochroism – Where a sapphire shows different colors depending on the angle of light.

✔ Color Zoning – Uneven color distribution caused by natural crystal growth.

Understanding these can help you avoid disappointment when buying a sapphire.

What Is Pleochroism?

Pleochroism is an optical effect where a single sapphire can show multiple colors based on viewing angles. For example:

🔹 A blue sapphire might show hints of violet or greenish-blue.

🔹 A yellow sapphire might have gold, green, or pale yellow tones.

A master cutter takes pleochroism into account, cutting the sapphire so the best, most even color is visible face-up.

Here’s a great video that shows pleochroism in action:

▶️ Unveiling the Secrets of Sapphire Pleochroism

Color Zoning—The Sapphire Flaw You Don’t Want

Unlike pleochroism, which can be used to enhance beauty, color zoning is a flaw. It happens when:

🚫 One part of the sapphire is rich in color, while another looks washed out.

🚫 The uneven color makes the gem look unnatural.

🚫 Cheaper sapphires often suffer from heavy zoning.

A skilled cutter will try to minimize color zoning, but some stones will always have it.

How to Spot a Well-Cut Sapphire

✅ Even color distribution with no noticeable zoning.

✅ Pleochroism is used to enhance beauty, not create strange color shifts.

✅ Proper proportions to maximize brilliance.

If you want a perfectly cut sapphire, take a look at these pieces I have in stock

💙 Certified 2.10ct Deep Blue Sapphire with Perfect Pleochroism

💙 Certified 1.75ct Heated Sapphire—Ideal Cut to Reduce Zoning

Need help choosing? Let’s talk.

📞 Call or text me at (212) 921-4647

🌍 Visit www.nektanewyork.com