What do you know about Blue Sapphire Stone?

Blue sapphire stone is a popular gemstone all over the world. It is known to have many metaphysical properties and healing powers. Popularly known as Neelam Ratna or Neelmani in Hindi, it is a precious gemstone from the corundum mineral family. 

This blue variety of sapphire is popular amongst all due to its transparency and amazing color shade. However, it holds much importance because of its energy, power, and astrological significance. 

Here is a complete guide to sapphire blue for you to know more about this original Neelam Ratna.

What Color Is Sapphire Blue? What Makes Sapphires Blue?

Blue Sapphire stones or crystals are found in different shades of blue. Although, the sapphires are made of corundum mineral, and Corundum, in its natural form, is colorless. But with trace elements, it gives a specific color to the stone. 

Neel mani gets an impressive blue color due to the presence of iron and titanium elements.

The blue shade can range from pale blue to dark blue. Stones with a dark, deep blue hue and no overtones of brown or black are more desirable. Royal blue sapphire is the most in-demand shade. 

Meaning of Blue Sapphire

Each gemstone that comes from the earth's surface exhibits a special meaning. Whether it's the color of the stone or its connection with the planet, each way, the gem holds a significant significance. The name Sapphire is derived from the Latin word “Sapphirus”, which means blue. The color blue is associated with traits such as royalty, divinity, and serenity. Some ancient cultures believed that the color of this gemstone is linked to the divine powers, and thus, wearing it means blessings and protection from God itself. 

Blue sapphire meaning is prosperity and nobility, it is a stone of virtue and wisdom. The Persians believed that the gem is linked with the sky and heaven and that the sky have gotten its color from a sapphire blue. 

Indeed, Blue stone ring meaning holds great importance for special occasions such as weddings and anniversaries. A blue sapphire engagement ring is the perfect adornment one can give to the partner to express love and compassion. They have become very popular over the centuries. 

How is Blue Sapphire Formed?

Unlike other gems, Neelam Ratna is also formed deep inside the earth’s crust through geological processes that take place for millions of years. The formation of this precious gemstone begins with aluminum and oxygen atoms combining under intense heat and pressure. These atoms crystallize to form corundum minerals, which in their natural form are colorless.

During the metamorphism of crystals (the process of arrangement of atoms in a crystal), trace elements such as iron and titanium get trapped within. This results in a splendid blue color for the stone. The gem’s chemical composition thus includes aluminum and oxygen atoms bonded together to form a hexagonal crystal system. The chemical formula of sapphire is Al2O3. During the formation of the crystal, there are some imperfections or inclusions also that give a new identity to the stone. Inclusions are common in gemstones, and sapphires are no exception. The common imperfection found in them is rutile needles.

Types of Blue Sapphire Stones

These gems are generally categorized based on their color and origin. Each has its significance and is valued for its impressive color shade and quality.

• Cornflower blue sapphire: This variety of blue gemstones is the rarest and top quality. The rarity of this stone is due to its impressive cornflower blue color, which is rare in nature. These are commonly found in Kashmir. The velvety appearance of the stone is due to the inclusions called “rutile needles," making them stand out from the rest. 
• Ceylon Blue sapphire: These stones from Sri Lanka are famous for their vivid blue color with medium tone and high saturation. Some of the largest Sri Lankan Neelam Stones are “Logan Blue sapphire” and “Blue Belle of Asia.” These are high-carat weight gemstones exclusively known for their astonishing blue hue and rarity. 
• Burmese sapphires blue: They are prized for their bright and saturated blue hue and high transparency. Neel mani from Myanmar are of high quality and are a common choice for jewelry enthusiasts.
• Australian Neelam: In composition, the color comes from trace elements like iron and titanium. The high amount of iron gives a dark blue color to the gemstones found in Australia. The darker blue color makes the stone appear black.
• Thailand Blue sapphires: Neel Ratna sourced from Thailand are not high-quality gems. They feature blue as the primary hue, and secondary hues like green, violet, and yellow are common in these stones.

Learn more about the different blue sapphire types here - Types of Blue Sapphire (Neelam) Gemstones.

Blue Sapphire History

Sapphire blue is one of the longest-known gemstones and is considered one of the BIG 4 gems. Their history dates back to centuries ago. It is said that they were used in Egypt and Mesopotamia around 3000 BCE in the form of jewelry and talismans, the belief being they would protect their wearer from harm. Blue sapphire necklaces were highly famous and mostly worn by people of class or status. 

In medieval Europe, these blue stones were symbols of virtue, wisdom, and fortune. 

As the 19th and 20th centuries came, in China, blue was associated with tragedy and death, so the blue color sapphires were less popular. Still, soon, the royals popularized Blue Sapphire wedding bands, and these gems became trendy. 

Astrological Significance Of Blue Sapphire Gemstone

Astrologically, the Sapphires are one of the most powerful gemstones in the world. In both Western and Vedic astrology, they are said to be the fastest-acting stones. 

In Vedic astrology, Neelam Ratna is one of the Navratans and is ruled by the planet Saturn, which is the planet of Karmic lessons. People who want the blessings of Saturn or Shani Dev are recommended to wear an original blue sapphire stone in the form of a ring, pendant, or necklace. Blue sapphire rings are to be worn on the middle finger of the working hand.

According to Western astrology, Sapphires are the birthstone of September and are the best for the 45th wedding anniversary. 

Benefit Of Neelam Stone 

The metaphysical properties of the gem will provide you with many Blue sapphire stone benefits. 

Enhanced Intuition and Insight

For centuries, this gemstone has been known for its talismanic properties. Even today, this stone is associated with enhancing intuition and psychic abilities. If you are a working professional, wearing this Neelam stone can help you improve your focus and inner wisdom. 

Spiritual Benefits of Blue Sapphire

This gemstone activates the throat chakra and the third eye chakra. Unblocking these energy centers leads to opening up communication and improves self-expression. It protects the wearer from negative energy problems, provides a sense of security, and promotes a harmonious environment.

Wealth and Prosperity 

It is a stone of fortune and good luck. Belief has it that this gem will attract good cash flow in your life and enhance your finances. It will fill your life with prosperity, bring your name and fame, and help you get success. 

Removes Shani Mahadasha

Nilam is for the planet Shani or Saturn, a karmic graha called Shani Priya ratna. Neeli ratna is suggested to individuals undergoing the worst phase of Shani sade sati. Other than this, persons whose horoscope displays the malefic effects of Shani are also advised to wear this blue stone. Wearing this stone for Saturn can offer a sudden increase in wealth. 

Healing Properties of Blue Sapphire Stone 

There are many Physical Health Benefits of Blue sapphire. The energies of the stone align with the energies of your body, aiding in your overall well-being. 

• Strengthens the bones. 
• Cures anxiety and depression. 
• Treats any heart-related ailments. 
• Improves the health of eye. 
• Provides relief from headaches. 
• Builds up the Metabolism. 
• Aids kidney-related diseases. 
• Regulates the function of the stomach.
• It is also believed to be helpful to cure paralysis or bone cancer. 

How Much Is A Blue Sapphire Worth?

The price of blue sapphire stone per carat ranges between INR 5,000 to 10,00,000. The price is highly based on the quality of the gem. High-quality gems will cost more. 

The quality is determined by Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat Weight, Origin and Treatment Processes. 

Where to Buy an Original Blue Sapphire Stone?

You should buy a natural Neelam Stone from a reputable seller to ensure the authenticity of the gemstone, like Navratan.com. Here, you will get best quality blue sapphires at the best prices with lab certification.