Blue Sapphire (Corundum)

Blue Sapphire is the blue variety of the corundum family. All gem-quality corundum that is not red is a Sapphire. Variation in blue exists due to iron and titanium properties. It spans many shades, but the most valuable is a clear, deep blue. Some stones, called ‘color-change sapphire’, exhibit different shades of blue in artificial and natural lights.

Good quality Blue Sapphire is found in Burma, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar. USA, Afghanistan, and Kashmir are other prominent sources of Blue Sapphire. The best Blue Sapphire is cornflower blue Kashmir Sapphire found in pegmatites or waterworn pebbles in alluvial deposits. Blue Sapphire from Australia, Thailand, and Nigeria is dark blue. It may sometimes be completely black in appearance. Montana, USA produces metallic Blue Sapphire. Other sources include Brazil, Cambodia, Kenya, Colombia, Pakistan, and Malawi.

Star Cabochon Blue Sapphire

Rutile inclusions create 6-rayed star effect in cabochons.

Carved Buddha

Since the middle ages, Sapphire has symbolized the tranquility of the heavens. It bestows peace and amiability on the wearer. Also, it suppresses impurities and evil thoughts.

Synthetic Blue Sapphire

Synthetic Blue Sapphire production began in the late 19^th century. As a result, commercial quantities became available during the early 20^th century.

Blue Sapphire Properties

• Specific Gravity: 4.00
• Refractive Index: 1.76-1.78
• Birefringence (DR): 0.008
• Luster: Vitreous
• Crystal Structure: Trigonal
• Composition: Aluminum Oxide
• Hardness: 9

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