The presence of chromium gives this sapphire its distinct pink hue. Interestingly, some say that pink sapphires are lighter rubies as they have the same trace elements in lesser quantities. These sapphires come in hues ranging from light baby pink to an intense magenta. The feminine and delicate shades make this gem the second widely popular type of sapphire.

Pink sapphires occur in shades from light to dark pink and deepen in color as the number of chromium increases. The deeper the pink color, the higher their monetary value. In the United States, a minimum color saturation must be met to be called a ruby, otherwise, the stone is referred to as a pink sapphire.