Sapphires are precious gemstones, along with rubies, diamonds, and emeralds. A member of the corundum family, sapphires come from the Latin word “sapphirus,” which means ‘blue’. The history of sapphires has been dated since about 800 B.C. The blue colour of the gemstone is due to the presence of trace amounts of iron and titanium. The blue hue of the stone ranges from pale blue to dark blue and those of cornflower blue. Considered ‘royal heirloom gems,’ sapphires are treasured for their eye-catching beauty. The fascination for blue sapphire is not new, it has been the most admired gemstone, but there are certain myths about it. Let’s explore these myths one by one.
5 Assumptions Regarding Blue Sapphire:
1. Is Blue Sapphire not Durable?
Neelam stone is considered one of the hardest gemstones. The hardness parameter is graded on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Sapphires rank nine after diamonds. Thus, the sapphire stone is durable. The hardness of the stone is directly related to its wearability. Like diamonds, sapphires are a great choice for engagement rings and other jewellery that can be worn daily.
2. Are Blue Sapphires Considered Bad Luck?
Sapphire gemstones are associated with the planet Saturn. Some people have a myth that blue sapphires bring bad luck or ill omen. But, it is evident from history, it can be seen that kings, queens, and aristocrats have sported these beautiful stones. For instance, in medieval times, emperors used to wear blue sapphire gems to protect them from harm.
These blue-coloured stones have been associated with heaven and divinity. In modern times, the fascinating blue sapphire engagement ring of Diana, carried perfectly as heirloom jewellery by Kate Middleton, is a perfect representation of love and fidelity cherished through generations. Blue sapphires are one of the striking gemstones that have inspired many designs and jewellery creations that have attracted royal families and served as a signature of love and commitment.
The astrological connectivity of the gemstone is not to be underestimated. Blue sapphire benefits include increased energy levels and metabolic activities. Wearing blue sapphire stones helps in enhancing the financial situation of an individual. Above all, this stone helps in the personal development of an individual.
3. The Origin of Blue Sapphire
When talking about the origin of blue sapphires, today, these are found in many places worldwide. Blue sapphires are found in Asian countries like Sri Lanka, India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Afghanistan. These blue gemstones are also mined in Brazil, Australia, Brazil, Tanzania, Kenya, the USA, Madagascar, and more.
Though blue sapphire stone from Sri Lanka are of the finest qualities, with more mines explored over time, the production of these gemstones has increased. For instance, blue sapphires from Madagascar have recently become popular for their finer qualities. Kashmir sapphires are also amongst the most well-known varieties of blue sapphires. These coveted gemstones are known for their distinguished blue colour and soft velvety appearance.
4. Various Shades of Blue Sapphires
It is a common myth that the primary colour of blue sapphires is only ‘blue.’ The shade of the colour varies from medium to darker blue tones. The other shades include pastel, cornflower, peacock, velvet, royal, indigo, and twilight hues. Where the delicate pastel hues of sapphires are subtle, the cornflower blue sapphires express nature very well, the spectacular peacock blue sapphires are reminiscent of the feathers of a peacock, and the velvet shine of Kashmir blue sapphires reflects a soothing glow.
The vivid dark hues of royal blue sapphires, the indigo shade of sapphires with light saturation, and the twilight sky shade lend an amazing look to the stone and captivating star of the onlookers. So, it’s not just one shade. It’s a wide range of colours that adds value to blue sapphire gemstones.
5. Prices of Blue Sapphires
It is a general myth that blue sapphires are expensive stones. Though there is no doubt that sapphires are costly regarding the finest quality and high-carat weight, other factors also determine their price. At Navratan, the sapphire prices are determined by the gemstone’s cut, clarity, carat, and colour. Most importantly, the treatment of gems is one factor that distinguishes the prices.
The prices of natural blue sapphires are comparatively more than the treated gemstones. For instance, when comparing prices of blue sapphires at Navratan based on treatment, one can notice the difference. The price for Sri Lankan blue sapphire cushion cut(1.53 carat) and octagon cut(1.51 carat) vary. This difference is because the Sri Lankan blue sapphire octagon cut stone, despite being less in carat weight, is priced slightly higher as it is natural and free from any treatment.
To conclude, Neelam stone is one of the most desirable gemstones. The striking blue color of the stone has attracted people worldwide. These blue-hued gemstones have a fair hardness. Found in many places worldwide, these gemstones are known for offering financial, personal, health, and marital benefits. Thus, these gemstones are preferred for every occasion.
