Sapphire beads are gemstones in the corundum species consist of pure aluminium oxide that crystallized as a result of pressure and heat at a deep depth giving this species its extreme hardness rivaled only by Diamond. The presence of small amounts of other elements, especially iron and chrome, are responsible for coloring Corundum the many shades of blue, purple, colorless, red, yellow, pink and green. For centuries there were differences of opinion among the specialists as to which stones deserved to be called sapphires. Finally, it was agreed that the ruby-red ones should be called Rubies and all those which were not ruby-red should be called Sapphires. Today, we go one step further, the term Sapphire without a color indicator refers to the blue variety and all other colors are called Fancy Sapphires. Sapphires are mined in India, Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka (Ceylon), Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, Brazil and Africa. Common treatments to corundum include clarity and color enhancement. Care for your corundum beads by cleansing them with warm soapy water and a cloth then lay flat to dry or use an ultrasonic cleaner. Corundum - Ruby, Sapphire and Fancy Sapphire - offer the hardest gemstone on earth next to Diamond and offer the largest color palette which makes this wonderful treasured stone a favorite of jewelry lovers worldwide.