Here's a look at the chemistry of Kate's famous sapphire-and-diamonds engagement ring, which once belonged to Princess Diana
Even though Kate will no doubt be given lots of diamonds in the next few months, I rather like her sapphire engagement ring (see above, right), so I am sharing this video where our favourite chemistry professor tells us about the chemistry of this famous ring. This ring, which formerly belonged to Princess Diana, William's mother, is a 12-carat sapphire, surrounded by 14 white diamonds set in 18-carat white gold:
Sapphire Ring - Periodic Table of Videos
For those of you who are interested, here are a few facts about sapphires:
- Sapphires are comprised of aluminum oxide with plenty of iron ions (as impurities), which gives the sapphire its lovely blue colour.
- Sapphires are extremely hard, ranking 9 of 10 on the Mohs Scale of mineral hardness. They are second only to diamonds in hardness and are similarly resistant to chipping.
- Sapphires are a variety of stone known as corundum and they come in every color from blue to green to pink -- red is the exception; red corundum is known as the ruby.
And now, for some myths and traditions about sapphires:
- Sapphires are a traditional gift on a 5th and 45th wedding anniversary (I am eagerly awaiting mine).
- Sapphires are the jewel of wisdom, truth, beauty and clarity.
- Sapphire is the birthstone for September, symbolising clear thinking.
- The most valuable and popular sapphire is a deep blue shade called "corn-flower blue." No doubt, this sapphire has lots of iron impurities in it since this is what generates that coveted blue colour.
