mineral

Parti Sapphire

Corundum (Al2O3)

Hardness: 9.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Multi-colored (green, blue, yellow in one stone); Luster: Adamantine to vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Specific gravity: 3.98-4.06

Hardness: 9
Color: Multi-colored (green, blue, yellow in one stone)
Luster: Adamantine to vitreous

Identified May 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 9.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Multi-colored (green, blue, yellow in one stone); Luster: Adamantine to vitreous; Crystal structure: Trigonal; Specific gravity: 3.98-4.06

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic or igneous rocks (such as basalt-related deposits) under high pressure and temperature. Colors are created by trace elements like iron and titanium in variable concentrations within a single crystal.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in high-end jewelry and as a gemstone for collectors; sapphire varieties are also used in industrial abrasive applications and watch crystals.

Geological facts

Parti sapphires are unique because they cannot be replicated by synthetic processes to look natural; each stone's color zoning is as unique as a fingerprint.

Field identification & locations

Identify by 'color zoning' (visible bands of different colors), extreme hardness, and lack of cleavage. Commonly found in Australia (Queensland and NSW), Nigeria, and Madagascar.