Gemstones have always fascinated humanity; among them, the blue sapphire holds a special place. Blue sapphire, also called the Neelam Stone, is one of the most popular gemstones in the world. Its deep blue colour, durability, and rarity have made it a sought-after gemstone for centuries. But there are different types of blue sapphire gemstones that you can buy and wear.
Each type has its own unique characteristics and properties that make it stand out. From Kashmir sapphires with a velvety blue hue to the vibrant cornflower blue of Ceylon sapphires, there’s a blue sapphire for every taste and budget. So, if you’re a gemstone lover or simply looking for a stunning piece of jewellery, exploring the different types of blue sapphire gemstones is an adventure. In this article, we’ll look closer at the various types of blue sapphire gemstones and what makes each one so unique.
Types of Blue Sapphires:-
1. Kashmir Blue Sapphire
The Kashmir blue sapphire is considered the most precious and rarest of all blue sapphires. The sapphires were first discovered in the early 1880s in the remote region of Kashmir, which was then part of India. The sapphires from this region have a soft blue hue, unlike any other blue sapphire. The colour is a deep blue with a slight violet hue. The velvety texture of the gemstones is a result of microscopic inclusions of tiny mineral crystals that scatter light and create a shimmering effect.
The demand for Kashmir blue sapphires is exceptionally high, with minimal supply. This has resulted in high prices for these precious gemstones. A small Kashmir blue sapphire can easily cost several thousand dollars. However, the beauty and rarity of the Kashmir blue sapphire make it a valuable addition to any collection.
2. Burma Blue Sapphire
The Burma blue sapphire is another highly sought-after blue sapphire gemstone. The sapphires from Burma are known for their rich, royal blue colour. The colour is often described as a deep, vivid blue with a slight violet hue. The sapphires are also known for their excellent clarity, which makes them even more valuable.
The demand for Burma blue sapphires has increased recently, and the supply has become more limited. This has resulted in high prices for these precious gemstones. However, the beauty and rarity of the Burma blue sapphire make it a worthwhile investment. A Burma blue sapphire is an excellent choice for an engagement ring or a special occasion piece of jewellery.
3. Thailand Blue Sapphire
Thailand Blue sapphires are known for their vibrant, bright blue colour. The colour is often described as a medium blue with a slight greenish hue. The sapphires from Thailand are typically smaller than those from Kashmir or Burma, but they are still highly valued for their beauty. Thailand blue sapphires are often heat-treated to enhance their colour and clarity. This process is standard in the gemstone industry and does not affect the gemstone’s value.
Another notable characteristic of Thailand blue sapphire is its exceptional clarity. Most Thai sapphires are free from inclusions and blemishes, which is due in part to the geology of the region. Thailand’s sapphire deposits are in alluvial gravel beds, naturally filtered and sorted over millions of years. This has resulted in sapphires that are not only beautiful but also of exceptional quality and value.
4. Royal Blue Sapphire
Royal blue sapphires are known for their deep, rich blue colour. The colour is often described as a bright, vivid blue with a slight violet hue. The sapphires are typically found in Sri Lanka and Madagascar and are often heat-treated to enhance their colour and clarity. Royal blue sapphires are more affordable than some of the other blue sapphire gemstones, making them an excellent choice for someone on a budget. The sapphires are also durable and can be used in various jewellery designs. A royal blue sapphire is an excellent choice for an everyday piece of jewellery or a gift for a loved one.
5. Cornflower Blue Sapphire
Cornflower blue sapphire is a beautiful and highly sought-after variety of sapphires prized for its vibrant blue colour and exceptional clarity. The colour of cornflower blue sapphire is reminiscent of the delicate blue petals of the cornflower plant, where the stone gets its name. This shade of blue is highly desirable and is considered one of the most coveted colours for sapphires. Cornflower blue sapphires are often used in fine jewellery, including engagement rings and pendants.
They are also highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs of fine gemstones. One of the most distinctive features of cornflower blue sapphire is its colour consistency. Unlike other sapphires that may exhibit different shades of colour under different lighting conditions, cornflower blue sapphires have a consistent and uniform colour that is highly prized. This consistency is due to the presence of a specific combination of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, in the stone’s crystal structure.
How to Choose the Right One for You?
When choosing a blue sapphire gemstone, it’s essential to consider the colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The colour is the most critical factor when selecting a blue sapphire gemstone. The colour should be vibrant and appealing to your taste. The clarity refers to the number and size of inclusions in the gemstone. A gemstone with fewer inclusions is more valuable than one with many inclusions.
The gemstone’s cut refers to its shape and how it has been faceted. The cut affects the gemstone’s brilliance and sparkle. A well-cut gemstone will be more valuable than a poorly-cut one. The carat weight refers to the size of the gemstone. A larger gemstone will be more valuable than a smaller one. The gemstone should be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity that verifies its origin and quality. Besides all this, you should be looking at the price of Neelam stone before purchasing it to know its price.
Conclusion
Blue sapphire gemstones are a timeless and valuable addition to any jewellery collection. From the rare and precious Kashmir blue sapphire to the vibrant Thailand blue sapphire, there’s a blue sapphire for every preference and budget. When choosing a blue sapphire gemstone, it’s essential to consider the colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight. It’s also essential to ensure that the gemstone has been ethically sourced and that you are working with a reputable jeweller. Whether you’re looking for an engagement ring, a unique occasion piece of jewellery, or an everyday accessory, a blue sapphire gemstone is an excellent choice.