If you’re buying Pigeon’s Blood & Cornflower gemstones, you must understand their true value. These names are popular in jewelry stores; however, they often mislead buyers:
- “Pigeon’s Blood” for rubies
- “Cornflower” for sapphires
Originally, gemologists defined these terms precisely:
- Pigeon’s Blood: A vivid red ruby with a subtle hint of blue or purple
- Cornflower: A medium-blue sapphire with soft, velvety tones
However, many jewelry shops use these terms mainly for marketing purposes. Therefore, buyers must verify the stone before paying.
How to Verify Pigeon’s Blood & Cornflower Gemstones
Before purchasing, ask yourself:
- Is a reputable lab, such as GIA or IGI, certifying the stone?
- Does the certificate match the claimed color?
- Or does the seller use the name to justify a higher price?
Common pitfalls:
- Some pale rubies still get labeled “Pigeon’s Blood.”
- Dark sapphires may be marketed as “Cornflower.”
- Treatments like heating can enhance color, making labels misleading.
What you should do:
- Trust your eyes: Compare stones side by side; also check color, clarity, and cut.
- Check lab certificates: Use reports from GIA, IGI, or GRS.
- Focus on quality: Hue, tone, saturation, clarity, and treatment status matter more than names.
Jaipur Example: Buying Pigeon’s Blood & Cornflower
For example, imagine walking into Johari Bazaar. A seller shows a red stone and claims:
“Top Pigeon’s Blood from Burma!”
- The stone looks too pink
- It has no certificate
- The price is triple the market rate
In this case, the smart choice is to walk away.
Better Strategy for Pigeon’s Blood & Cornflower
- Learn what genuine color quality looks like using certified rubies and sapphires as benchmarks
- Always pay for the stone you see—not the story you are told
- Additionally, check related guides like Understanding BIS Hallmark to ensure authenticity
Remember: Would you buy wine just because it’s called “Sunset Blush”? Instead, taste it first. Gems work the same way.
Bottom line: Don’t buy the name. Buy the stone.
FAQ
Q1: What does “Pigeon’s Blood” mean for rubies?
A: It refers to a vivid red ruby with a subtle hint of blue or purple. True Pigeon’s Blood rubies are rare and usually certified.
Q2: Is “Cornflower” sapphire always high quality?
A: Not necessarily. Many sellers use the name for marketing. Therefore, always verify color, clarity, and certification before buying.
Q3: Which labs provide reliable gemstone certificates?
A: Reputable labs include GIA, IGI, and GRS. Always ask for a certificate.
Q4: How can I avoid being misled by gemstone names?
A: Focus on the stone itself. Check hue, tone, saturation, clarity, cut, and certification rather than poetic labels.
