Africa Gems Sapphire stone advice please

[HockeyMama]

Hi!

As I continue to search for a colored stone and attempt to educate myself I have a question for our experts. I have decided to only purchase a loose stone (if I do a loose stone instead of a vintage piece) from a stateside seller given looming tariffs and general anxiety about insta/overseas purchases. I found a stone whose color I like (searching for a saturated cornflower ceylon unheated) at Africa Gems. The odd part is that it is an oval and the center is very obviously not close to center. Is that a big no? I'm attaching the link because I'm no where near purchasing so not afraid of lurkers.

Unheated Blue Sapphire - Oval Shape - 2.02 carats - 8.34 x 6.67 x 4.54mm - GIA Certified

This Gorgeous Genuine Gemstone Blue Loose Sapphire, 2.02 carats in Oval Shape, 8.34 x 6.67 x 4.54mm displays a vivid medium rich cornflower blue, excellent clarity, cut and life. A stunning genuine gemstone in a sought after, in an easy to mount shape and great size, close to calibrated, super...

www.africagems.com

Thanks in advance!

 

[newdiamondworld]

Have you asked them for videos taken in natural daylight and under incandescent lighting? Based on the report photo, the color may not be as bright and saturated as it appears on the website.

It's off-center, which can happen with native cuts - personally, I don’t think it’s a huge issue if you really love the color. That said, I do have some questions about the color though

 

[HockeyMama]

Have you asked them for videos taken in natural daylight and under incandescent lighting? Based on the report photo, the color may not be as bright and saturated as it appears on the website.

It's off-center, which can happen with native cuts - personally, I don’t think it’s a huge issue if you really love the color. That said, I do have some questions about the color though

I have not asked for additional videos as I’m no where near ready to purchase. Still in the research phase. I do know that video in different lighting is key which is why I’ve decided to only make stateside loose stone purchases.

Good to know the off center cut won’t be an issue if the color is great. I know generally color over cut for colored stones but I’d not seen such a striking asymmetry before.

Thank you!

 

[marymm]

Just so you know that people and tastes vary, a stone with an off-center cut like the one you posted would be a red flag for me, and I would not purchase it.

*For me* a great price or color or size cannot outweigh the negatives of a gemstone with an off-set center, as the lack of symmetry is a distraction and detraction to my eyes.

It may well be that an off-center cut does not bother you at all, but always best to judge with your own eyes and to buy from a vendor with a return policy (Africa Gems does have a solid return policy).

 

[HockeyMama]

Just so you know that people and tastes vary, a stone with an off-center cut like the one you posted would be a red flag for me, and I would not purchase it.

*For me* a great price or color or size cannot outweigh the negatives of a gemstone with an off-set center, as the lack of symmetry is a distraction and detraction to my eyes.

It may well be that an off-center cut does not bother you at all, but always best to judge with your own eyes and to buy from a vendor with a return policy (Africa Gems does have a solid return policy).

This is an excellent point. I chose Whiteflash for diamonds because I do have a preference for symmetry.

Earths Treasury has quite a few more but not as many reviews here for them.

I won’t do custom. Jeff White had some rough that he assured me would be lovely but I lack in imagination and this is a large purchase to take a leap on.

I’m still watching for vintage pieces.

Thank you for the feedback.

 

[dk168]

Off-centre aside, I could see some zoning, so it would be a no for me even though I like the colour.

Shame that you would not go custom as I am certain Jeff W would be able to cut you a lovely gem.

DK

 

[Autumn in New England]

I'm not sure what we're seeing in the photo is color zoning... that may just be uneven light play due to the off-center culet. With regard to that issue, as far as a sapphire is concerned, I might keep looking. I have one gem, a cobalt spinel, with an askew pavilion. But it's relatively rare material, so I made an exception. It doesn't really affect light return either (as in, there's no window, and it still has full brilliance).

I also agree with @newdiamondworld that the color is likely going to be less saturated than the photo, judging by the video (where it still looks nice). I put less stock in cert photos, since they always seem to be awful.

Lastly, I have a 20% coupon code if you decide to buy (but it expires 4/1). Otherwise, I believe they have a 15% one listed.

 

[mellowyellowgirl]

That one is super wonky and for that price I’d keep looking.

Mine is a tad wonky too (had to accept some flaws given the size and colour I wanted) but the one you posted is quite off centre.

 

[HockeyMama]

Off-centre aside, I could see some zoning, so it would be a no for me even though I like the colour.

Shame that you would not go custom as I am certain Jeff W would be able to cut you a lovely gem.

DK

I know he would do great. And his rough was the perfect size and shape! But color is so important for this and I just couldn’t take a chance once cut I wouldn’t like it at that price.

 

[HockeyMama]

I'm not sure what we're seeing in the photo is color zoning... that may just be uneven light play due to the off-center culet. With regard to that issue, as far as a sapphire is concerned, I might keep looking. I have one gem, a cobalt spinel, with an askew pavilion. But it's relatively rare material, so I made an exception. It doesn't really affect light return either (as in, there's no window, and it still has full brilliance).

I also agree with @newdiamondworld that the color is likely going to be less saturated than the photo, judging by the video (where it still looks nice). I put less stock in cert photos, since they always seem to be awful.

Lastly, I have a 20% coupon code if you decide to buy (but it expires 4/1). Otherwise, I believe they have a 15% one listed.

Thank you for offering to share your code! Your gem collection is #goals. I’ll definitely pass on this and keep looking. I also watch Inken but I’m kind of opportunistic and am waiting for something to appear instead of engaging in a custom gem hunt. I may eventually give up on the waiting.

 

[HockeyMama]

That one is super wonky and for that price I’d keep looking.

Mine is a tad wonky too (had to accept some flaws given the size and colour I wanted) but the one you posted is quite off centre.

This is the color I am dreaming of (as are many ps’ers). I definitely could not do the “not take backs” you mentioned from your journey. Wish I was so fearless! Your collection is beautiful.

 

[dk168]

I know he would do great. And his rough was the perfect size and shape! But color is so important for this and I just couldn’t take a chance once cut I wouldn’t like it at that price.

Got it.

My usual approach with Jeff W is to trawl his sold gemstone galleries, find a gem ro gems with the colour I like, find a cut or cuts that I like, give him a budget and take it from there.

He knows what I like in terms of colour and cut, having worked with him since 2015 and had met him in person when I went to Tucson in February 2023.

However, I appreciate your concerns as it is a big ticket purchase.

DK

 

[Autumn in New England]

Got it.

My usual approach with Jeff W is to trawl his sold gemstone galleries, find a gem ro gems with the colour I like, find a cut or cuts that I like, give him a budget and take it from there.

He knows what I like in terms of colour and cut, having worked with him since 2015 and had met him in person when I went to Tucson in February 2023.

However, I appreciate your concerns as it is a big ticket purchase.

DK

You've had lots luck with that approach too!

 

[dk168]

You've had lots luck with that approach too!

Indeed!

DK

 

[toomuchB]

Earths Treasury has quite a few more but not as many reviews here for them.

They are a reputable gem dealer from what I know, and their cuts are precision cuts so there certainly won't be wonkiness. I recall a user here had an issue with their settings, but I do not remember the details. For loose stones should be totally fine if you want precision cut and they have options you are drawn to.

 

[HockeyMama]

Got it.

My usual approach with Jeff W is to trawl his sold gemstone galleries, find a gem ro gems with the colour I like, find a cut or cuts that I like, give him a budget and take it from there.

He knows what I like in terms of colour and cut, having worked with him since 2015 and had met him in person when I went to Tucson in February 2023.

However, I appreciate your concerns as it is a big ticket purchase.

DK

It’s your gorgeous collection that sent me his way!

 

[Heathcat24]

It’s your gorgeous collection that sent me his way!

I just wanted to chime in and say that I have two unheated emerald cut blue sapphires from Jeff W (one in my avatar pic and one currently being set in a pendant) and they are both just STUNNING.) I'm a huge fan!

I, too, understand the fear of custom and not getting exactly what you want. These stones are way too expensive to not wind up THRILLED! Maybe he could send you some photos of rough vs final cuts from his archives so that you could gauge the color?

 

[HockeyMama]

They are a reputable gem dealer from what I know, and their cuts are precision cuts so there certainly won't be wonkiness. I recall a user here had an issue with their settings, but I do not remember the details. For loose stones should be totally fine if you want precision cut and they have options you are drawn to.

I read the thread about the setting and will keep that in mind.

The cuts certainly are better. On the other hand, I am not a fan of the concave cuts (of which there are many). They also only offer a single picture with no videos. I'm sure the have a lot of inventory but almost every other vendor does, and it would result in a lot of back and forth and I don't want to end up feeling obligated to buy something (my own issue about people pleasing). This is my favorite of the current inventory but even in a single photo I see color zoning, I cannot imagine what further images would show if this is the stone's best foot forward!

https://www.earthstreasury.com/product/2-50-carat-cornflower-blue-ceylon-sapphire-2/

The hunt continues but I'm learning so much! Thank you all.

 

[HockeyMama]

I just wanted to chime in and say that I have two unheated emerald cut blue sapphires from Jeff W (one in my avatar pic and one currently being set in a pendant) and they are both just STUNNING.) I'm a huge fan!

I, too, understand the fear of custom and not getting exactly what you want. These stones are way too expensive to not wind up THRILLED! Maybe he could send you some photos of rough vs final cuts from his archives so that you could gauge the color?

I've drooled over your pieces!

He actually sent me this as an example of what the color would be:


This is obviously gorgeous. My goal is a medium cornflower blue without too much purple. And I mis-typed, it wasn't rough he showed me, it's a wonky native cut stone that he would recut. He sent a video but it has my name on it. I guess I got hung up because the emphasis is always on videos in different types of light and backgrounds. I'm so confused.

 

[Heathcat24]

I've drooled over your pieces!

He actually sent me this as an example of what the color would be:


This is obviously gorgeous. My goal is a medium cornflower blue without too much purple. And I mis-typed, it wasn't rough he showed me, it's a wonky native cut stone that he would recut. He sent a video but it has my name on it. I guess I got hung up because the emphasis is always on videos in different types of light and backgrounds. I'm so confused.

Thank you! Mine were native stones, too, that he recut. He said they had purplish tones, but for the life of me, I can't really see that part. They're just a really beautiful blue to me. (But I have terrible eyesight! LOL)

Just take your time and be sure. You want to be able to step forward with confidence and, more than that, EXCITEMENT. Because it's too much money not to love love LOVE it!

I had to make a decision whether or not to recut the second one. It was not a terrible native cut, and I was going to lose a good bit of rough with the recut. Most people in my circle said they would leave it as is to keep the size. But, in the end, I decided I wanted the precision cut and shape that would match the stone in my ring.

I am so glad I did that! For me, it was well worth it, because, in the back of my mind, I would have always thought my stone could have looked better.

What are your thoughts on your native stone in his video? Do you love the color of it?

 

[HockeyMama]

Thank you! Mine were native stones, too, that he recut. He said they had purplish tones, but for the life of me, I can't really see that part. They're just a really beautiful blue to me. (But I have terrible eyesight! LOL)

Just take your time and be sure. You want to be able to step forward with confidence and, more than that, EXCITEMENT. Because it's too much money not to love love LOVE it!

I had to make a decision whether or not to recut the second one. It was not a terrible native cut, and I was going to lose a good bit of rough with the recut. Most people in my circle said they would leave it as is to keep the size. But, in the end, I decided I wanted the precision cut and shape that would match the stone in my ring.

I am so glad I did that! For me, it was well worth it, because, in the back of my mind, I would have always thought my stone could have looked better.

What are your thoughts on your native stone in his video? Do you love the color of it?

I actually thought it was very pretty, and didn't even see any purple, but he said there was some so I was nervous. If it was less than a thousand I wouldn't blink and take a chance, but it's five thousand. I have enough ambivalence that I shouldn't move forward.

 

[Heathcat24]

I actually thought it was very pretty, and didn't even see any purple, but he said there was some so I was nervous. If it was less than a thousand I wouldn't blink and take a chance, but it's five thousand. I have enough ambivalence that I shouldn't move forward.

I completely understand! I wonder if he would let you look at the native cut stone in person (with return possible) before any recut to see what you think about the color? That way, you will know one way or the other.

I don't see purple in mine and he said it was there. I wonder if a recut brings out more purple? I have no idea about that kind of thing!

 

[HockeyMama]

I completely understand! I wonder if he would let you look at the native cut stone in person (with return possible) before any recut to see what you think about the color? That way, you will know one way or the other.

I don't see purple in mine and he said it was there. I wonder if a recut brings out more purple? I have no idea about that kind of thing!

Well that's a very interesting option! I'll ruminate on them.

 

[Saphir]

Just so you know that people and tastes vary, a stone with an off-center cut like the one you posted would be a red flag for me, and I would not purchase it.

*For me* a great price or color or size cannot outweigh the negatives of a gemstone with an off-set center, as the lack of symmetry is a distraction and detraction to my eyes.

It may well be that an off-center cut does not bother you at all, but always best to judge with your own eyes and to buy from a vendor with a return policy (Africa Gems does have a solid return policy).

100% agree
To much money overall

 

[Dreamer_D]

I assume you have checked Finewater and Gemfix?

 

[HockeyMama]

Yes! Finewater has a pretty stone that has a lot of purple. Gemfix has several Portuguese cuts but I think those may look odd? They have one that looks pretty but the note says violet blue. I think if they actually describe it as violet there will be too much purple for me. I’m the type of person who sees the blue in a white white vs the yellow vs the pink. I see all the undertones. It’s possible I’m just unrealistic.

 

[toomuchB]

Yes! Finewater has a pretty stone that has a lot of purple. Gemfix has several Portuguese cuts but I think those may look odd? They have one that looks pretty but the note says violet blue. I think if they actually describe it as violet there will be too much purple for me. I’m the type of person who sees the blue in a white white vs the yellow vs the pink. I see all the undertones. It’s possible I’m just unrealistic.

FWIW if you are fussy about modifiers, the Africagems stone has a obvious grayish violet undertone to me in the video as you can see in this screenshot. The photo looks purer blue. Who knows which is more accurate. Sapphires tend to shift to some degree across lighting situations. I wouldn't put much weight on lab color designations



Here's some eye candy in the meantime! https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-7-stone-emerald-cut-blue-sapphire-ring.175313/

 

[HockeyMama]

FWIW if you are fussy about modifiers, the Africagems stone has a obvious grayish violet undertone to me in the video as you can see in this screenshot. The photo looks purer blue. Who knows which is more accurate. Sapphires tend to shift to some degree across lighting situations. I wouldn't put much weight on lab color designations



Here's some eye candy in the meantime! https://www.pricescope.com/community/threads/my-7-stone-emerald-cut-blue-sapphire-ring.175313/

I’ve seen that beauty! And the one belonging to @Acinom and the ones belonging to @mellowyellowgirl and so on. I would love truly any of them. Anything not royal blue.

I have a feeling that once I get a stone I won’t even see any purple. But up front I am just perseverating. When I was trying to buy a white mother of pearl VCA piece I examined every inch and couldn’t find on I liked. Them my husband bought me one for my birthday and I didn’t look closely at all, I just love it.

I had a PS vendor tell me “It's funny, the doctors and healthcare people are lots pickier up front but are pretty lax once they find something they like. The legal folk are less picky up front but way more scrutiny once they start looking or considering”. This is me (doctor) to a fault!

 

[ItsMainelyYou]

I might reach out to Adamant and see what they may have in inventory or can source.

Adamant Gems: High quality sapphires and other natural gems

Fine quality gemstones from Sri Lanka and East Africa. Ceylon blue sapphires, pink sapphires, yellow sapphires, fancy sapphires, chrysoberyls, spinels, tourmalines, zircons, garnets and other natural gems.

www.adamantgems.com

 

[toomuchB]

I had a PS vendor tell me “It's funny, the doctors and healthcare people are lots pickier up front but are pretty lax once they find something they like. The legal folk are less picky up front but way more scrutiny once they start looking or considering”. This is me (doctor) to a fault!

Love that quote!