Yes, some sapphires can have bubbles, especially synthetic ones. While natural sapphires tend to have inclusions, air bubbles are more commonly found in lab-created or synthetic sapphires.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Natural Sapphires: Natural sapphires typically contain inclusions. Inclusions are small imperfections like minerals, crystals, or other materials trapped within the gemstone during its formation in the earth. These inclusions are generally not bubbles.
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Synthetic Sapphires: Synthetic sapphires, created in a laboratory, can sometimes contain air bubbles, though modern methods often minimize this. Older or less sophisticated synthetic processes are more likely to result in bubble formation. These bubbles are often round and may appear in clusters.
How to Identify Sapphires (and Potential Bubbles):
While visually inspecting a sapphire for bubbles might suggest its origin, it's not the only (or best) method. Other methods include:
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Magnification: Use a jeweler's loupe or microscope to examine the internal structure of the sapphire. Look for inclusions (in natural stones) versus rounded bubbles (potentially in synthetics).
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Breath Test: As mentioned in the reference, breathe on the sapphire. If the fog dissipates very quickly (almost instantly), it is more likely to be a natural sapphire. If the fog takes longer than 5 seconds to dissipate, it might be a fake. Important Note: This test isn't foolproof.
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Professional Appraisal: The most reliable way to determine the authenticity and origin of a sapphire is to have it examined by a qualified gemologist or appraiser.
In summary, while natural sapphires are characterized by inclusions, the presence of round air bubbles more strongly suggests a synthetic origin, especially in older or lower-quality lab-created stones. However, professional identification is always recommended.
