Yellow Sapphire

Overview

Yellow sapphire is the yellow variety of corundum, coloured by trace amounts of iron. In Vedic tradition, it is one of the most widely recommended gemstones, representing Jupiter, the planet of wisdom and prosperity. Sri Lanka and Madagascar are the primary commercial sources.

Physical Properties

Mohs hardness: 9. Refractive index: 1.762 to 1.770. Specific gravity: 3.95 to 4.03. Yellow sapphires range from pale lemon to deep golden to orangish yellow. The most valued colour for Jyotish purposes is a medium, vivid yellow without brown or green modifiers.

Colour and Quality

For Vedic use, the ideal yellow sapphire is a bright canary to golden yellow, eye-clean, with good brilliance. Stones that are too pale are considered weak in planetary energy. Stones with brownish or greenish tones are less desirable. Natural, unheated yellow sapphires with vivid colour are relatively more available than comparable rubies or blue sapphires, making them more accessible for astrological use.

Major Sources

Sri Lanka produces the finest yellow sapphires for both jewellery and Jyotish use. Madagascar has become an important source since the early 2000s. Australia produces greenish-yellow to golden sapphires. Tanzania, Thailand, and Montana also yield yellow corundum.

Vedic Significance

Yellow sapphire (Pukhraj) represents Jupiter (Brihaspati), the most benefic planet in Vedic astrology. It is prescribed for wisdom, prosperity, marital happiness, children, and spiritual growth. The stone should be set in gold and worn on the index finger of the right hand on a Thursday during Shukla Paksha.