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The History and Origin of Blue Sapphires

By:  Myra S.

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Blue sapphire is an expensive and precious gemstone that belongs to the mineral Corundum family. It is associated with astrology and is believed to impart several benefits to the wearer. It’s a mystical gemstone that brings fame, fortune, and success. Blue sapphires come in different shades of blue and have several inclusions. Although this violet-blue gemstone is mined in several parts of the world, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, South Africa, and Thailand, the best blue sapphire is found in India and Sri Lanka.

The value of blue sapphire differs in different locations according to the quality and astrological benefits. In Vedic astrology,  blue sapphires are connected to the planet Saturn and are considered to be the birthstones for the month of September.  If you are seeking facts about blue sapphires, then look no further, as we will not only get into the history of blue sapphires but will also shed light upon different interesting facts.

History

  • Sapphire got its name from the words ‘Saphirus’ and ‘Sapherios,’ both of which mean blue in Latin and Greek. The Greeks also used the same word to refer to lapis lazuli, which is another blue gemstone.
  • In Hebrew, ‘sappir’ means ‘perfect’ or something perfect.
  • Some historians say sapphire was called ‘sappeer’ in old Arabic as well, which means ‘to scratch.’
  • The word ‘Sapphire’ also might have originated from the Sanskrit word ‘Sanipriya,’ which means a sacred stone to the planet Saturn.
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  • The history of blue sapphire goes back to the 13th Century BC when Marco Polo traveled to Sri Lanka and discovered sapphires in abundance. He specifically mentioned blue sapphires in his  “Book of Marvels .”Sri Lanka was also the leading supplier of blue sapphires during that time.
  • Kings during the medieval era loved blue sapphires and wore them as rings and brooches. Since they believed in the healing power of blue sapphire, they also thought it would protect them from evil and physical harm.
  • During the Renaissance, sapphires were owned and worn by those who belonged to a rich and influential class. Sapphires were also believed to prevent poverty, make an individual wiser, and improve their overall aura and inherent nature.
  • When violet-blue sapphires were mined in Kashmir in the 19th and early 20th centuries, Indian sapphires from Kashmir became extremely popular and set the record price for blue sapphires sold all over the world.
  • Sapphires were discovered in Madagascar in the 1990s, while Australia too became a major supplier of blue sapphires during the same time. As of now, Madagascar is the leading producer of sapphire gemstones. However, naturally- mined blue sapphires are quite rare to find.

Also Read: Are Blue Sapphires a Good Option for Promise Rings?

  • The need to create synthetic sapphires arose with the depletion of naturally- mined sapphires. In 1902, Auguste Verneuil, who was a French scientist, invented a method to make synthetic sapphires. Although the process has significantly changed due to large-scale production and improved techniques, the basic idea remains the same.
  • Blue sapphires are not only precious gemstones but are also revered by people across the world. They are believed to possess healing properties and have spiritual significance in Vedic astrology. Wearing a blue sapphire can significantly benefit those who have birth charts heavily influenced by the planet Saturn.
  • The blue sapphire is the most prized among all sapphires and the most loved gemstone throughout the middle ages. September-born people are believed to draw wisdom and divine energy from this precious stone.
  • Greeks wear sapphire when they seek answers from the oracle. Hindus in India use it during their devotional practises and Buddhists wear it to receive spiritual enlightenment.
  • Britain’s royal family began their association with blue sapphires ever since Prince Charles gifted Lady Diana a blue sapphire ring as a token of his love for their engagement ceremony in 1981. Prince William handed the same ring to Kate Middleton when they got engaged in 2010.
  • In the 14th and 15th centuries, the blue sapphire engagement ring became quite popular among royal families and the wealthy. Although other gemstones like rubies and emeralds are still popular among couples, the blue sapphire remains the most popular since it represents honesty, dedication, and truth. These rings are also given as a gift or token of love on the 4th and 5th wedding anniversaries.
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Also Read: Which Metal Is Best for Blue Sapphire?

Astrological Benefits

Blue sapphire is a powerful and extraordinary gemstone with certain astrological benefits. It is best to consult an astrologer before you decide to wear one, as these gemstones are quite powerful.

  • This stone is connected with Saturn and can affect a person in different ways; thus, people who have suffered the harmful effects of Saturn can wear blue sapphire, albeit with caution.
  • According to Vedic astrology, blue sapphire is the most powerful gemstone that can bless its wearer with positivity and all the good things in life. In India, blue sapphire is called by various names such as Neelam, Indraneel,  and Neela Pukhraj. This is because all these stones are naturally mined and possess the ability to change a person’s life positively. It can remove all personal, professional, and financial problems from one’s life.
  • You will be blessed with mental peace and a free mind if you wear a blue sapphire gemstone under the guidance of a healer or astrologer. Blue sapphire can be used to calm anxious minds and increase mental focus. They are known to treat depression, and anxiety and mend broken hearts.
  • If you’re struggling to rebuild your business or dealing with a property dispute, wearing a genuine blue sapphire will bring your business on track and open up alternative ways to deal with pending issues.
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  • There will be a marked improvement in your fortunes since blue sapphire can work like a lucky charm.
  • Wearing a blue sapphire can make you popular among your colleagues. In addition, you will gain recognition for your work and build a good name at your workplace.
  • Blue sapphire can help you stay focused and disciplined. Being connected with Saturn contains several properties that can bring discipline to your life and help you fulfil your dreams and wishes at the right time.

Also Read: Blue Sapphire Astrological Benefits

Conclusion

Different types of blue sapphire gemstones are often seen as symbols of eternal love and commitment. Popularized by the royals the world over, blue sapphire gemstones are mysteriously beautiful and possess immense healing properties, if worn under astrological guidance. Flaunt your favourite sapphire ring, pendant, bracelet, or earrings by shopping from the Angara website, which has a plethora of options for you to choose from.

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