Original Yellow Sapphire(Pukhraj) is a highly beneficial gemstone. It is worn by the maximum number of people to mitigate the effects of Jupiter, called Brihaspati in Vedic astrology.
The market is flooded by cheap-quality sapphire, which often confuses the wearer. Identifying a genuine Yellow Sapphire at home can be a challenging task without professional tools and expertise. However, there are several methods you can use to perform preliminary checks. Learn the 6 Best Ways to Identify an Original Yellow Sapphire (Pukhraj) at Home.
Table of Contents
Check the Color of Yellow Sapphire
Authentic sapphires exhibit a consistent yellow-to-pale yellow color that is evenly distributed throughout the stone. This uniformity is a key indicator of authenticity. Look for any patches of different colors, which might signal a fake stone. A genuine yellow sapphire should not have uneven colouration. However, in some yellow sapphires, the color is not evenly distributed.
Many fake sapphires are made from glass. While yellow glass might look similar to yellow sapphire at first glance, a closer inspection reveals significant differences. Yellow glass tends to be too big and overly vibrant, lacking the subtlety of a real sapphire.
True yellow sapphire is yellow to pale yellow. Other stones, like citrine, golden topaz, and yellow tourmaline, share a similar yellow hue but with distinct differences. Citrine has a slight golden tint, golden topaz has strong traces of orange, and yellow tourmaline has a brighter, lemon-like hue.
Look for Inclusions in Yellow Sapphire
Natural yellow sapphires often contain inclusions (internal flaws) that can be seen with the naked eye. These inclusions are natural and quite common. Fake stones typically do not have inclusions but may contain bubbles. These bubbles are a clear indicator of a synthetic origin.
To inspect for inclusions and bubbles, use a magnifying glass or jeweller’s loupe with 10x to 30x magnification. Carefully examining the stone under magnification can reveal these internal characteristics.
Observe the Cut of Yellow Sapphire
Examine the cut of the gemstone. A well-cut gemstone will have complex, symmetrical facets that reflect light unevenly, adding to its brilliance.
Natural yellow sapphires can be cut into nearly any style. However, stones over 2 carats are often cut into oval or cushion-mixed cuts to minimise material loss. Synthetic stones or glass are typically cut into shapes based on market demand, which may not always prioritise the quality of the cut.
Perform a Scratch Test on Yellow Sapphire
Yellow Sapphires are extremely hard, ranking 9 on the Moh’s Hardness Scale. A genuine sapphire should be able to scratch glass or other materials of lesser hardness without itself getting scratched. Fake stones, particularly those made of glass, often have surface scratches. A real yellow sapphire will have very few if any, surface scratches.
Conduct a scratch test by carefully rubbing the stone against a rigid surface. If the stone gets scratched, it is likely not genuine. Exercise caution to avoid damaging the gemstone during this test.
Feel the Warmth and Weight of Sapphire
A real, natural stone should feel warm when held in your palm. If the stone feels unusually cool or you do not notice any warmth, it may be synthetic. Yellow Sapphires are denser and heavier than many other stones of similar size. Hold the stone and compare its weight to a similarly sized gemstone or glass. A genuine sapphire will feel heavier due to its higher density. This can be tested only if you have good experience feeling weights.
Ask for Certificate of Authenticity
The most reliable method for verifying a yellow sapphire is through certification by a reputable gemological laboratory. Look for certifications from gemological organisations such as the GIA, AGL, IGITL, IGI, and GSI. A certificate provides confidence that the stone has been professionally evaluated and authenticated.
Conclusion
While these home tests for Ways to Identify an Original Yellow Sapphire (Pukhraj) help you make a preliminary assessment of a yellow sapphire’s authenticity, confirming its genuineness conclusively requires professional tools and expertise. In that case, it is best to consult with a certified gemologist.
Whether you are selecting a yellow sapphire for an engagement ring, necklace, or bracelet, or to use as an astrological gemstone, these tips will help you ensure that you have a genuine, high-quality gemstone. Also remember to use the recommended weight when using it as a Jyotish gemstone.
