mineral

Pink Sapphire

Corundum (Al2O3) with Chromium/Iron/Titanium trace impurities

Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale. Color: Light pink to deep magenta. Luster: Vitreous to sub-adamantine. Crystal structure: Trigonal (hexagonal prisms). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 3.98-4.06.

Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale
Color: Light pink to deep magenta
Luster: Vitreous to sub-adamantine

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale. Color: Light pink to deep magenta. Luster: Vitreous to sub-adamantine. Crystal structure: Trigonal (hexagonal prisms). Cleavage: None. Specific gravity: 3.98-4.06.

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic environments like marble or schist, and in igneous rocks like basalt. Geological age varies greatly from millions to hundreds of millions of years. Common in secondary alluvial deposits (riverbeds).

Uses & applications

Primary use is in high-end jewelry (rings, earrings, necklaces). Industrial-grade corundum is used for abrasives and watch bearings due to its high hardness.

Geological facts

Sapphire and Ruby are the same mineral (Corundum); the only difference is the color. Some pink sapphires exhibit a 'Padparadscha' hue—a rare pinkish-orange that is highly prized by collectors.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by high density, hexagonal crystal habit, and the ability to scratch almost any other mineral except diamond. Common locations include Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar, and East Africa.

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