Blue Sapphire stone benefits meaning and powers

Sapphires are made up of the same material as rubies. The main difference is that sapphires are blue and rubies are red. The mineral corundum, which is the second hardest gemstone in the world after the diamond, makes up blue sapphires. Actually, only the red corundum is referred to as rubies while all other colors of the mineral are known as sapphires. Blue is the traditional color of sapphires although they can be found in many other colors as well.

The most common blue sapphires are those from Madagascar and Sri Lanka. These stones range from light to darker blue. Sapphires are also found in Australia as well as Cambodia, Tanzania, Thailand and in some states in the United States. Prized sapphires from Burma and Kashmir are very rare and have a very deep blue hue that is rare. While there are sapphires found in these regions, they are typically a bit more expensive than the average consumer can afford. Blue sapphires found in other regions however, are typically very affordable.

Corundum that has no color is very rare. There are typically shades of some color present in the stones. There are synthetic white sapphires that are very inexpensive and used to make jewelry although those that are genuine are very rare. Purple sapphires are also rare.

Blue is the most popular color of sapphire and the color that it is best known for. The intensity of the blue color is the most important factor to consider when purchasing. The deeper the color, the more valuable the stone is considered to be. Stones that have very intense blue coloring without being too dark are the most valuable. Those that are too dark or too light are a bit less valuable hence they are less expensive and there are a number of beautiful jewelry pieces that are created with these lower cost stones.

Blue sapphire tends to have a bit more clarity than rubies. This simply means that there are normally no inclusions that can be seen without the assistance of special jeweler equipment. Sapphires are cut into a number of shapes and sizes and used widely throughout the jewelry industry. From round stones to oval, emerald and princess cut, those who love the look of blue sapphires can find them in a variety of styles. Sapphire is a beautiful stone that looks great set in white or yellow gold, platinum, sterling silver or any number of other metals. It pairs nicely with diamonds or lesser expensive gemstones and has been used to make necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and a host of other pieces.

The most notable sapphire in history is the Star of India which weighs in at 536 carats. This sapphire was discovered nearly 300 years ago in Sri Lanka and later donated to the American Museum of Natural History. Another notable sapphire is on display at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. This 423 carat sapphire is the largest in the world that is faceted and the largest blue sapphire to date.