Content:
"The Blue Belle of Asia: A Sapphire of Unparalleled Magnificence" is a captivating exploration of one of the world's most renowned gemstones. Authored by ClawaBear, this blog delves into the fascinating story and remarkable characteristics of the Blue Belle of Asia sapphire, offering readers a glimpse into its rich history, mesmerizing beauty, and unparalleled allure.
Through meticulous research and expert insights, ClawaBear unveils the secrets behind this extraordinary gemstone, from its origins in the mines of Sri Lanka to its journey through the hands of royalty and collectors. Discover the mesmerizing hues, exceptional clarity, and impressive size that have made the Blue Belle of Asia a true masterpiece of nature.
Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast, a history buff, or simply captivated by the allure of rare treasures, "The Blue Belle of Asia" offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Join ClawaBear as she celebrates the timeless elegance and enduring legacy of this magnificent sapphire, inviting readers to embark on a journey of discovery and appreciation.
Well let us dive into the magnificence of this amazing sapphire, The Blue Belle Of Asia.
The colour. the beauty and rarity of this stunning blue gem.
This for me is a personal favourite as the sapphire is an impeccable gemstone that just calls out to me. The allure of it's magic and hue.
Jewellery such as this just mesmerizes me and in my jewellery making journey I can't help but admire such beautiful stones such as this.
Sapphire Formation.
Shall we begin with how Sapphires are formed? How Mother Earth gives us her unique magic?
Sapphires, like many gemstones, are formed deep within the Earth's crust under specific geological conditions. Here's a simplified explanation of how sapphires are formed:
Heat and Pressure: Sapphires typically form in metamorphic or igneous rock environments where there is high heat and pressure. This can occur deep within the Earth's crust.
Aluminium and Oxygen: Sapphires are composed primarily of aluminium oxide (Al2O3), with trace elements like iron, titanium, and chromium lending them their characteristic colours. Aluminium and oxygen, along with these trace elements, are present in the right proportions within the Earth's crust.
Precipitation: Under intense heat and pressure, aluminium and oxygen ions combine to form corundum crystals, the mineral group to which sapphires belong. As these crystals grow, trace elements present in the environment can become incorporated into the crystal lattice, imparting various colours to the sapphire.
Crystallization: Over time, these corundum crystals grow larger as more aluminium and oxygen atoms join the lattice structure. The conditions of temperature and pressure determine the size, clarity, and colour of the sapphire crystal.
Erosion and Deposition: Geological processes like erosion can expose these sapphire-bearing rocks to the surface. Through erosion and weathering, sapphires can be liberated from their host rocks and transported by water or other geological forces.
Secondary Deposits: Sapphires can be found in secondary deposits such as riverbeds, where they accumulate due to their high density compared to surrounding rocks and minerals. This is where they are typically mined today.
Overall, the formation of sapphires is a complex process that involves the right combination of geological conditions, chemical elements, and time.
Sapphire: September's Birthstone
Sapphire, as a birthstone for the month of September, carries a rich symbolism and significance. Here are some of the meanings associated with sapphire as a birthstone:
Wisdom and Royalty: Throughout history, sapphire has been revered as a symbol of wisdom, royalty, and divine favour. In many cultures, sapphire was believed to bestow clarity of thought, insight, and spiritual enlightenment upon its wearer. Its deep blue hue was associated with the heavens and was often worn by royalty and spiritual leaders as a symbol of their elevated status.
Protection and Good Fortune: Sapphire has long been believed to possess protective qualities, guarding its wearer against harm and negative energies. In ancient times, warriors wore sapphire amulets into battle, believing that the stone would bring them victory and protection. It was also believed to attract good fortune and prosperity, serving as a talisman for success and abundance.
Inner Peace and Serenity: The serene blue colour of sapphire evokes a sense of calmness and tranquillity, making it a stone of inner peace and emotional healing. Sapphire is thought to soothe the mind, alleviate stress, and promote mental clarity, allowing its wearer to find balance and harmony amidst life's challenges.
Love and Commitment: In addition to its association with wisdom and protection, sapphire is also considered a stone of love and commitment. The deep blue colour of sapphire symbolizes fidelity, loyalty, and everlasting love, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and anniversary gifts. It is believed to strengthen bonds between partners and deepen their emotional connection.
Overall, sapphire as a birthstone embodies qualities of wisdom, protection, serenity, and love, making it a cherished and meaningful gemstone for those born in the month of September. Whether worn as jewellery or kept as a talisman, sapphire carries with it a sense of reverence and significance that transcends time and culture.
392-carat Blue Sapphire
Now's let's get some history behind this fantastic sapphire.
In honour of September's official birthstone, let's journey back to a momentous occasion in the world of haute joaillerie, where a spectacular 392-carat blue sapphire made headlines by shattering auction records. Named the "Blue Belle of Asia," this cushion-cut, cornflower blue Ceylon sapphire commanded an astonishing $17.3 million at Christie's Geneva in 2014, securing its place as the highest-priced sapphire ever sold at auction.
Surpassing its pre-sale high estimate of $9.9 million, the Blue Belle of Asia captivated bidders with its mesmerizing beauty and impeccable provenance. As Rahul Kadakia, International Head of Christie’s Jewellery Department, declared the final bid, a private collector seated in the room became the proud new owner of the most valuable sapphire in the world.
The journey of the Blue Belle of Asia spans nearly a century, tracing back to its discovery in 1926 at Pelmadula, Ratnapura, also known as the City of Gems, in Ceylon, now Sri Lanka. Originally owned by the esteemed gem and jewellery dealers O.L.M. Macan Markar & Co., based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, the sapphire was meticulously cut and polished between 1926 and 1928, attaining its current size and shape.
Macan Markar & Co.
O.L.M. Macan Markar & Co. holds a significant place in the history of Sri Lanka's gem and jewellery industry. Founded by O.L.M. Macan Markar, the company became renowned for its expertise in sourcing and trading precious gemstones, particularly the famed Ceylon sapphires.
The history of O.L.M. Macan Markar & Co. dates back to the colonial era when Ceylon, as Sri Lanka was then known, was under British rule. During this time, Sri Lanka gained recognition as a premier source of gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, and other coloured gemstones. The firm played a pivotal role in facilitating the trade of these precious stones, catering to both local and international clientele.
With its headquarters located in Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, O.L.M. Macan Markar & Co. became synonymous with integrity, quality, and reliability in the gem trade. The company built strong relationships with local miners and lapidaries, allowing it to access some of the finest gemstone specimens from across the island.
Over the years, O.L.M. Macan Markar & Co. earned a reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship and expertise in gemstone cutting and polishing. The firm's skilled artisans transformed rough gemstones into exquisite works of art, showcasing the natural beauty and brilliance of each stone.
As Sri Lanka's gem industry flourished, O.L.M. Macan Markar & Co. played a vital role in promoting the country's gemstones on the international stage. The company participated in prestigious trade shows and exhibitions, attracting buyers from around the world and contributing to the global recognition of Sri Lanka as a leading source of coloured gemstones.
While the exact timeline of O.L.M. Macan Markar & Co.'s operations may not be widely documented, its legacy endures as a pioneering force in Sri Lanka's gem and jewellery industry. Today, the firm's contributions are celebrated as part of the rich heritage of the island nation's gem trade, reflecting a tradition of excellence that continues to thrive in the modern era.
 Lord Nuffield
Lord Nuffield, born William Morris, was a British industrialist and philanthropist who played a significant role in the automotive industry and beyond. Here's an overview of his life and contributions:
Early Life:
William Morris was born on October 10, 1877, in Worcester, England. He grew up in a working-class family and began his career as an apprentice at a local bicycle manufacturer.
Automotive Career: In 1901, Morris founded his own company, Morris Garages (MG), which initially focused on selling and repairing bicycles. As the automobile industry gained momentum, Morris transitioned to producing motor vehicles, eventually becoming one of the most prominent figures in the British automotive industry.
In 1912, Morris launched the Morris Oxford, which became one of the company's most successful models. He later expanded his business empire by acquiring other automotive companies, including Wolseley Motors and Riley Motors.
During World War II, Morris's factories played a crucial role in producing military vehicles and equipment for the Allied forces. His contributions to the war effort earned him a knighthood in 1934, and he was later elevated to the peerage as Baron Nuffield in 1938.
Philanthropy:
Despite his immense wealth and success, Lord Nuffield was known for his modesty and philanthropy. He donated substantial sums to various charitable causes, particularly in the fields of healthcare and education. In 1937, he established the Nuffield Foundation, which continues to support research and social welfare initiatives to this day.
Legacy:
Lord Nuffield's impact on the automotive industry and British society as a whole cannot be overstated. His innovative business practices, commitment to quality, and philanthropic endeavours left an indelible mark on the nation's history. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential figures of the 20th century, whose legacy continues to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and philanthropists.
Vanished
With a fascinating history steeped in intrigue, the Blue Belle of Asia found itself in the possession of British automobile magnate Lord Nuffield in 1937, purportedly intended as a gift for Queen Elizabeth's coronation. However, fate had other plans, and the stone vanished into private hands, its whereabouts shrouded in mystery for the next 35 years. Resurfacing in the 1970s under the enigmatic ownership of Swiss gem dealer Theodore Horovitz, the sapphire remained a tantalizing enigma until its triumphant return to the public eye in 2014.
Theodore Horovitz
Theodore Horovitz, the Swiss gem dealer, is not a widely known figure in public records or historical accounts. It's possible that he was a private individual or operated within a niche sector of the gem trade without garnering significant attention outside of specialized circles.
While I don't have specific information about Theodore Horovitz, it's common for gem dealers to maintain a low profile, especially those who operate in the high-end or exclusive segments of the industry. They often specialize in sourcing rare and valuable gemstones, catering to a select clientele of collectors, investors, and jewellery houses.
Given the secretive nature of the gem trade and the discretion often practiced by dealers, it's not uncommon for individuals like Theodore Horovitz to operate behind the scenes, facilitating transactions without attracting public scrutiny.
If Theodore Horovitz was indeed involved in the gem trade, his contributions may have been significant within his field of expertise, but details about his life and career may remain largely unknown to the general public.
Adorning a majestic diamond necklace featuring nine tassels embellished with brilliant-cut diamonds, the Blue Belle of Asia radiates an aura of regal splendour and timeless elegance. Its unparalleled beauty and storied past make it a true masterpiece of the jeweller's art.
Sapphires, composed of crystalline aluminium oxide known as corundum, derive their captivating hues from trace elements naturally occurring during their formation. With a remarkable hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphires are surpassed in durability only by diamonds.
The moment has arrived for the Blue Belle of Asia to rightfully claim its place in the spotlight. Sapphires boasting such extraordinary size, colour, and clarity are exceptionally scarce. This remarkable specimen undoubtedly stands among the most distinguished coloured gems to grace the market in recent memory, making it a prized addition to any esteemed collection.
Beyond their significance as September's birthstone, sapphires hold special importance as the gemstone of choice for couples celebrating their 5th or 45th wedding anniversaries. Their enduring beauty and symbolism of love and fidelity make them cherished treasures for generations to come.
In visiting the remarkable tale of the Blue Belle of Asia, we are reminded of the enduring allure of exceptional gemstones and the timeless elegance they impart to those fortunate enough to behold them.
I do hope you have enjoyed reading a little tribute to such a magnificent gem stone ?
Please leave me your thoughts and comments.
May you have an amazing & glistening day!
Much love, as always,
ClawaBear
So interesting!