gemstone

Yellow Sapphire

Corundum (Al2O3:Fe)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale. Color: Yellow to golden. Luster: Vitreous to adamantine. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, parting on basal pinacoid. Specific gravity: 3.98-4.10

Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale
Color: Yellow to golden
Luster: Vitreous to adamantine

Identified August 7, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale. Color: Yellow to golden. Luster: Vitreous to adamantine. Crystal structure: Trigonal. Cleavage: None, parting on basal pinacoid. Specific gravity: 3.98-4.10

Formation & geological history

Formed in metamorphic or igneous rocks such as marble, basalt, and pegmatites, often recovered from secondary alluvial or placer deposits. Formed over millions of years under high pressure and temperature.

Uses & applications

Used in high-end fine jewelry, as a gemstone for rings, necklaces, and earrings, and in industrial applications requiring extreme hardness (though synthetic corundum is more common for industrial use).

Geological facts

Yellow sapphires are sometimes called 'Pukhraj' stones in Vedic astrology and are believed to bring prosperity and wisdom. They owe their yellow color to trace amounts of iron substituting for aluminum in the crystal lattice.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by its extreme hardness (will scratch glass and quartz easily) and high specific gravity. Commonly found in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Tanzania, and Australia.