Sapphires Color Intensity Grades

When it comes to evaluating the quality of a colored sapphire, color typically takes center stage. The intensity scale measures how saturated the hue appears in the gem, as well as its overall lightness or darkness. Among the various levels of intensity, “Vivid” is usually regarded as the most premium. That said, color perception is highly personal—what one person sees as perfect may differ from another’s preference. 

Color intensity in sapphires refers to the strength and vividness of the gemstone’s hue—how rich, pure, and lively the color appears to the eye. It is one of the key components of color evaluation, alongside hue (the basic color) and tone (lightness or darkness).

Vivid
This is the highest grade on the color intensity scale. “Vivid” indicates a gemstone with outstanding saturation—rich in color without tipping into overly dark tones.

Intense
Just a step below Vivid, this grade still reflects an exceptional depth of color. It’s a highly desirable intensity, especially in premium-quality sapphires.

Medium Intense
Stones in this category show beautiful color but may appear slightly less saturated, particularly under strong lighting. It strikes a fine balance between richness and brightness.

Medium
With around 50% color saturation, Medium intensity offers a balanced appearance—neither too strong nor too faint—ideal for those who prefer a classic, even-toned look.

Medium Light
This grade represents stones that reflect 25–45% of their color, often with more than half of the light returned as white. The result is a lighter, softer impression.

Light
Light intensity stones display a delicate hue, often appearing pastel or washed-out due to the high proportion of white light reflection.

Very Light
These gemstones have only a trace of color. The hue is barely perceptible and gives the stone a near-transparent appearance.

Near Colorless / Faint
These stones are almost completely clear, with only the slightest whisper of color visible under close inspection.

Colorless
Completely void of color, these gems are sometimes called “white” stones. They are prized for their pure, crystal-clear appearance.

Dark
This classification is given to stones with extremely deep saturation, where very little light passes through. The result is a nearly opaque and shadowy tone