Blue gemstones have been prized for centuries for their vibrant and calming hues. From deep, rich sapphires to light, sparkling aquamarines, blue gemstones offer a wide range of colors and styles to choose from. In this blog post, we'll explore the history, symbolism, and care of blue gemstones, as well as some of the more unique and unusual options available.

Types of Blue Gemstones

Sapphires: Sapphires are one of the most popular and valuable blue gemstones. They are a type of corundum mineral that comes in a range of blue shades, from pale sky blue to deep navy. Sapphires are a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them a durable and long-lasting option for jewelry.

Aquamarines

Aquamarines are a light blue variety of the mineral beryl. Their color ranges from pale blue to seafoam green, and they often have a transparent or slightly cloudy appearance. Aquamarines are a 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, which means they are not as durable as sapphires but still suitable for daily wear.

Blue Topaz

Blue topaz is a variety of the mineral topaz that has been treated to produce a vibrant blue color. Natural blue topaz is quite rare and is usually a pale or grayish blue. The color of blue topaz can vary from light to dark blue, depending on the intensity of the treatment process. Blue topaz is an 8 on the Mohs scale.

Tanzanite

Tanzanite is a blue-violet variety of the mineral zoisite. It was discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s and has since become a popular gemstone due to its unique color and rarity. Tanzanite ranges in color from pale blue to deep violet-blue, and is a 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale.

Blue Gemstone Meanings and Symbolism

Blue gemstones have been associated with a range of meanings and symbolism throughout history. Here are some of the most common: Peace: Blue is often associated with calmness and tranquility, making blue gemstones a popular choice for meditation and relaxation. Wisdom: In some cultures, blue gemstones are associated with wisdom and knowledge. Blue sapphires, in particular, are often associated with the wisdom of the heavens. Spirituality: Blue gemstones are sometimes associated with spiritual growth and enlightenment. Lapis lazuli, for example, is often used in spiritual practices to promote clarity and connection with higher realms.

Caring for Blue Gemstones

Blue gemstones, like all gemstones, require proper care and maintenance to ensure their beauty and longevity. Here are some tips for caring for your blue gemstone jewelry:

Cleaning: Blue gemstones can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the gemstone.

Storing: Store your blue gemstone jewelry in a soft cloth or pouch to protect it from scratches and other damage. Avoid storing your jewelry in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

Handling: When handling your blue gemstone jewelry, avoid touching the gemstone directly with your fingers. Oils from your skin can damage the stone over time.

Unique Blue Gemstones

While sapphires, aquamarines, and other popular blue gemstones are beautiful and timeless, there are also many more unique and unusual options available. Here are a few to consider:

Larimar:

Larimar is a rare blue gemstone found only in the Dominican Republic. It is a type of pectolite

Blue Diamonds

Blue diamonds are rare and highly sought after for their beauty and uniqueness. The blue color is caused by the presence of boron during the diamond’s formation process. The boron atoms absorb light in the red, orange, and yellow parts of the spectrum, leaving only blue light to be reflected back to the viewer. Blue diamonds can range in color from light blue to deep blue, and their value is determined by their color intensity, size, and clarity.

Blue Spinel

Blue spinel is a lesser-known gemstone that is often mistaken for sapphire due to its similar blue color. It is a durable gemstone that is found in a range of blue hues, including navy blue, royal blue, and light blue. Blue spinel is often used as a more affordable alternative to sapphire, but its rarity and beauty are beginning to gain recognition in their own right.

Blue Topaz

Blue topaz is a popular gemstone that is known for its affordability and durability. The blue color of topaz is caused by the presence of iron and chromium during the gemstone’s formation process. Blue topaz can range in color from pale blue to deep blue, and it is often used as a substitute for aquamarine and sapphire due to its similar color.

Azurite

Azurite is a deep blue gemstone that is often found alongside malachite, another green gemstone. Azurite is often used in jewelry and decorative objects due to its deep blue color and unique banding patterns. Azurite is a relatively soft gemstone, which means it is prone to scratching and chipping, making it a better choice for occasional wear.

Lapis Lazuli

Lapis lazuli is a blue gemstone that has been used in jewelry and decorative objects for thousands of years. It is a deep blue gemstone that is often mottled with white or gold-colored veins of pyrite. Lapis lazuli is relatively soft and is prone to chipping and scratching, but its unique beauty and history make it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative objects.

In Conclusion

Blue gemstones come in a range of hues and varieties, from the deep blue of sapphire to the light blue of aquamarine. Each gemstone has its unique properties, including hardness, durability, and rarity, which determine its value and suitability for different types of jewelry and decorative objects. Whether you are looking for a classic blue sapphire or a lesser-known blue gemstone, there is a blue gemstone out there for everyone.