Yellow sapphires belong to a group of colorful gemstones known as corundums, which is a crystallized form of aluminum oxide. Like other colors of fancy sapphires, the yellow is rather rare, and until recently, most of these more unusual colors were not well known among most people. Yellow occurs when a trace of iron is added to the aluminum oxide.

Playing second fiddle only to the diamond on the Mohs scale (weighing in at 9), all sapphires are extremely hard gems. Yellow sapphires, just like other fancy sapphires are beautiful and rare as they are strong. A yellow sapphire stands up well to wear and tear while losing none of its luster. It has been somewhat easier to find these stones in recent times as they become more popular in jewelry.

The yellow sapphire can be found in sapphire mines in Tanzania, Sri Lanka and Madagascar. While top quality sapphires of all colors are rare, synthetic sapphires are made in the lab all the time. Synthetic sapphires contain all the properties of real sapphires; they were just created in a laboratory instead of in the earth over the course of millions of years. Yellow synthetic sapphires sparkle just as brilliantly as those mined from the earth and they'll be a little more affordable than the real stones.

Price depends on on the color, size and clarity of the gems. The cut of the gem is also an important element in determining price. A stone which has been expertly cut will sparkle, even out of the sunlight. Mined stones will be more expensive than synthetics and stones that have been heat treated (this enhances their color).

Those who ascribe special meanings to gemstones say that yellow sapphires bring people together, generating feelings of warmth and friendliness. It is thought to alleviate depression, aid concentration and other mental skills and to bring financial success. Healing qualities for the yellow sapphire are said to be related to the respiratory tract and the liver. There is some traditional lore that says a yellow sapphire should only be worn on the first finger of the right hand, although most people don't bother to follow this advice.

Prized for it's bright yellow color whether mounted in gold or in silver, Yellow sapphires have the elegance of its fellow sapphires of all colors. Yellow sapphires are a real eye catcher, gathering attention in any setting. A yellow sapphire should be at least considered as a good choice for an engagement ring stone.

If you don't yet have a yellow sapphire in your jewelry collection, get one. This beautiful gem is just too unique to pass by.