What is sapphire: the incredible properties and magic of a gemstone of power

Description of the stone

A precious stone like sapphire captivates immediately. It shines and shimmers with dozens of facets; it is not surprising that government officials have been drawn to it since ancient times. Sapphire looks like highly shiny glass, transparent or colored, but only very durable.

A natural mineral may have lines, dots, or cavities inside - this is a sign of crystal growth in its natural environment. Natural gems come in different colors, but they are all natural and not flashy.

Untreated sapphire is a stone with uneven edges and cracks; the main shine is given to it by processing. Without it, using the mineral for jewelry purposes is impossible.

Varieties and colors

Sapphires are classified according to their color:

• colored - have a tint;
• colorless - transparent, without any color.

By shade:

• dark – black, blue, purple, lilac;
• light - white, yellow with its shades, red, pink, blue and its shades.

Blue is a classic. All other stones that have color are called fancy.

Description of sapphire colors:

• green is one of the cheapest, the color is formed due to the merging of blue and yellow areas;

• blue – the richest in shades, occurs frequently, and is especially highly valued;

• Kashmiri - a clear cornflower blue crystal found in Kashmir;

• yellow – comes in shades from pale yellow to amber, popular in jewelry, costs less than blue;

• Padparadscha sapphire, or Ceylon sapphire, - translated as “lotus flower”, a delicate pink hue, transparent, very rare, maybe with an admixture of orange;

• blue – a light variety of blue stone;

• white, or leucosapphire, is transparent, colorless, similar to a diamond;

• orange is a dark version of yellow, it comes in honey shades;

• red - it was used to decorate the headdresses of monarchs, symbolizing the blood of Christ on the cross;

• purple is a rare dark variety of blue, the richer the color, the lower the price;

• lilac - a shade of the main blue stone, popular in both men's and women's jewelry;

• black - can be translucent or opaque, has a pronounced shine, is cheap compared to other types, and is often used to create men's jewelry.

Separately, star sapphires are distinguished - stones in which, due to the inclusion of rutile (a type of quartz), the incident light is refracted so that the viewer sees a bright star with 6 or 12 rays on the surface of the mineral. Such stones are highly valued - the rarer the shade, the higher the cost.

You can find out more about the stone in the review:

How to distinguish an original from a fake

You can distinguish a sapphire of natural origin from an artificial analogue by several factors:

1. Hardness. Corundum can only scratch diamond or similar corundum.
2. Heterogeneity of structure. The internal structure of natural stones is not ideal, unlike fakes.
3. Low thermal conductivity. If you hold the stone in your hands, it remains cool for quite a long time, slowly absorbing heat. A synthetic analogue or glass will heat up much faster.
4. Hue in lighting. Natural sapphire will remain blue when exposed to ultraviolet rays, while synthetic fakes will have a green tint.

This is interesting!

One of the ways to fake sapphires is by gluing a thin natural part with a bulkier synthetic part. Such a fake can only be detected by examining the stone through a magnifying glass.

History and origin of the mineral

In Greek, sapphire means blue. It was this color that the crystal was associated with for a long time. Interesting facts from the history of the mineral:

• was first found on the territory of modern Asia;
• used by shamans and sorcerers in rituals;
• in Babylon it was called scratcher;
• served as material for making the seal of Solomon;
• The largest sapphire found in the world weighs 1,404 carats, found in Sri Lanka and valued at $100 million.

Ancient names for sapphire:

• yacht;
• corundum;
• lal.

The gem is formed in igneous rocks under the influence of high temperature and pressure. This is what gives the stone its transparency.

Interesting Facts

1. The world's largest sapphire, called the Star of Adam, was mined in Sri Lanka in 2015. It weighs 1404.49 carats or 281 g. Its value ranges from 100 to 175 million dollars.
2. The book of Exodus says that God gave Moses the 10 Commandments, engraved on sapphire tablets.
3. In the Middle Ages, kings crowned their symbols of power with large sapphires. The orb of Catherine the Second was decorated with a large blue sapphire.
4. It is believed that the seal of the wisest and fairest king, Solomon, was created from sapphire.

Mining and stone processing

Sapphire mining is carried out in the territories of different countries. The main reserves are concentrated in Thailand, a supplier of minerals with the effect of asterism (when light rays pass through, it seems that clusters of stars are concentrated inside).

Sapphires from Sri Lanka are of high quality and expensive. Red, blue and green stones have been discovered in Tanzania. Indian sapphire is cornflower blue, minerals from Burma are of high quality, and their prices are high.

In Russia, blue stones are mined on the Kola Peninsula, in the Urals - cornflower blue stones, with a green tint.

A deposit was discovered relatively recently in Thailand, and production is underway on an industrial scale. Natural stones are brought from Kanchanaburi, but this does not exclude the possibility of buying a fake.

Processing of sapphire involves cleaning the rock, grinding, bevelling (in which the edges are highly polished for a pronounced play of light and shine; such a mineral is called faceted) or regular cutting and polishing. Types of cut:

• diamond;
• pear;
• cabochon;
• heart;
• marquis;
• emerald.

The cabochon is popular among jewelers - it allows you to highlight even small stones. A marquise is an elongated oval with a pointed end, often used in rings and earrings.

Some crystals are subjected to refinement - heating in the presence of active additives. This changes the color of the stone and improves the purity indicator. After processing, sapphire is called diffusion sapphire.

Talismans and amulets

Natural sapphire stone can become a wonderful talisman or amulet. It should be understood that a talisman is an object, a decoration that, with its energy flow, carries the owner in the direction of good luck. And amulets can serve both as amulets and create positive energy of advancement to solve a specific problem.

Thus, a sapphire talisman encourages the owner to do good and bright deeds, develops interest in the unknown, helps achieve his plans, and imparts peace and justice. A sapphire amulet protects from fear, evil people, can save a person from bad habits or ignite passion in a loved one. Much depends on the color of the stone and the task being set. Sapphires also have the ability to reveal the carrier of dark energy. Star sapphires have a special power, that is, they have the effect of asterism.

It is believed that sapphire is not contraindicated for all zodiac signs except Capricorn.

Artificial sapphire

In 1904, a method for producing artificial or synthetic sapphires was invented in France. It still underlies the cultivation of stones - aluminum oxide is heated to 2200 ° C, titanium, iron or other impurities are added to obtain the desired color.

Production quickly gained momentum - by the 21st century, the annual production of synthetic stones amounts to hundreds of tons.

During artificial growth, a single crystal is formed - a stone with a continuous crystal lattice. A single crystal of synthetic sapphire is grown using the Verneuil method, while lamellar (colorless) sapphire is grown using the melt method. In the same way, they learned how to obtain star gems.

Artificial stones are no worse than natural ones, and in some respects they are even better:

• the color is richer, brighter;
• absolute transparency;
• no inclusions;
• the price is lower.

A type of artificial sapphire is glass ceramic. This is a stone obtained through a process of controlled crystallization of glass. Modern nanosynthetics technologies make it possible to create a gem of any size and color.

See how artificial stone is grown:

How to check a sapphire for authenticity

Glass imitations are usually sold under the guise of sapphire. Artificial gems are not fake; they meet all the chemical, physical and external characteristics of natural stones. A sign of a laboratory mineral is that there is a growth zone (a stripe of a more saturated color inside the gem).

Here's how you can tell a real sapphire from an imitation one at home:

1. Natural stones contain inclusions in the form of dots and dashes, this can be seen through a magnifying glass. Artificial specimens do not have them, but they are much more expensive than glass fakes.
2. The gem is very hard and resistant to external influences. If you run it across the glass, it will leave a scratch on the glass.
3. Sapphire is cool. Glass heats up faster in the palms.

Video on the topic of how to determine whether a stone is natural:

Who is the zodiac sign for? Whose symbol is this?

Sapphire is suitable for those born under the sign:

• Aries;
• Taurus;
• Sagittarius;
• Aquarius.

The stone is patronized by Saturn, so it is recommended to wear it during the period of Sade Sati (the time of Saturn).

• Fire signs Sagittarius and Aries can pick up this stone if they want to increase their concentration, calm down and achieve life wisdom.
• Aquarians are better off buying sapphires to explore themselves more deeply and gain courage on the spiritual path.
• For Taurus, a blue stone can help them decide on some actions and gain wisdom.
• Sapphire can also be used as a talisman or talisman.

Virgos and Pisces can also wear sapphires. This will help them gain the trust of others and gain self-confidence. But this stone is not recommended for zodiac signs such as Scorpios. This is also not the best choice for Capricorn.

Properties and uses of sapphire

The main use of sapphire is jewelry. In addition, there are other areas of application of the mineral. It depends on the appearance and purity of the gem. Sapphire purity is a characteristic that reflects the transparency of the mineral on a scale from 1 to 4:

• 1 – transparent, tiny inclusions do not deteriorate the appearance;
• 2 – transparent, the color is saturated, the defects are larger, but not visible under a magnifying glass;
• 3 – opaque, inclusions visible to the naked eye;
• 4 – slightly transparent, cloudy, indefinite color, many defects.

Transparent and translucent minerals go to jewelers. Lower quality and lab grown stones, especially clear ones, are used in the technical industry. They are made from:

• parts in ophthalmic instruments;
• substrates for microcircuits;
• glass for airplanes, helicopters, rockets;
• glass slides;
• inserts in cameras;
• glasses for gadgets, watches.

Physicochemical characteristics

The chemical formula of sapphire is Al2O3, which is aluminum oxide. The impurities that give color are:

• titanium;
• nickel;
• lithium;
• aluminum;
• gallium;
• iron.

Properties of the stone:

• hardness on the Mohs scale – 9 points out of 10;
• melting point – 2040 °C;
• strong glass luster;
• can only be cut with a diamond;
• discolors when heated;
• strength – very high;
• density – 3.97 g/cm3.

Medicinal properties

Sapphire is used in lithotherapy along with traditional medicine in cases of:

• depression, neuroses;
• pyelonephritis;
• high blood sugar;
• rheumatism;
• bronchitis, pneumonia;
• skin problems;
• migraines, headaches.

Magic properties

Sapphire is a symbol of harmony and vital integrity. Helps you find your place in life and find inner balance. Reveals hidden capabilities and talents. Magical properties depend on color:

• yellow – protects against evil tongues, relieves anxiety, gives confidence;
• blue – promotes the development of discipline, responsibility, prudence;
• blue – leads to the goal;
• cornflower blue – develops intuition;
• black – gives the desire to live, the desire for a goal;
• white – helps to climb the career ladder;
• green – makes the owner kinder, more sympathetic;
• pink - suitable for kind people without selfish thoughts, can harm the envious and evil.

It can be worn as a talisman by bosses, military personnel, executives, and newlyweds. As an amulet it is suitable for people of creative professions - actors, singers.

It should not be combined with beryl, malachite, or pearls. Goes well with amethyst, garnet, ruby.

About the magic of stone, see the review:

Why do you dream about sapphire?

According to the dream book, sapphire dreams of a pleasant event - luck, joy, meeting. If the crystal was lost in a dream, then this is interpreted as a loss, a useless effort. If you dreamed of a sapphire in a ring, then this is a sign of fatal, painful love.

Suitable by zodiac sign and name

The crystal has a certain effect on each zodiac sign:

1. Aries will help in pacifying emotions and encourage learning. The stone of choice is blue.
2. The gem is not suitable for all Taurus - only active, active representatives of the sign will feel the positive influence. Those who do not strive for change will not feel anything. Suitable colors are blue, green, yellow.
3. Gemini will become more restrained and balanced. It's worth taking a closer look at the blue crystal.
4. Cancers will be luckier and get rid of the blues. You can wear any color except yellow - it will have the opposite effect.
5. It will be useful for Leos for the purpose of developing knowledge and hard work. Yellow and pink stones are most suitable.
6. Virgos are considered the best masters - sapphire will give them spirituality, help them establish relationships with people around them, eliminating their isolation.
7. It has a slight positive effect on Libra - it helps to approach issues of choice more easily. It is preferable to wear yellow or colorless stones.
8. For Scorpios, he will become a protector from the aggression of others, direct energy in the right direction, and give positive emotions. It is better to wear minerals in cool shades.
9. Sagittarius is recommended to wear blue stones - they will help curb passion and bring harmony.
10. The mineral does not have a positive effect on all Capricorns - excitable, unrestrained natures will only feel even greater chaos in business and personal life and will begin to commit rash acts.
11. It will give Aquarians self-confidence, help them develop intuition, and become softer towards others.
12. The mineral has a weak influence on Pisces - it gives internal balance and strength to move forward. The color of choice is blue.

According to astrologers, sapphire is best suited for owners with the following names:

• Vitaly;
• Georgy;
• Denis;
• Egor;
• Nikolai;
• Antonina;
• Veronica;
• Maria;
• Julia.

For women, the gem plays a special role:

• creates attractiveness in the eyes of the opposite sex;
• helps maintain fidelity in marriage;
• promotes the development of reciprocal feelings in the chosen one if you give him water from a dish decorated with a crystal.

To view a review on an astrological topic:

Magic properties

It is not for nothing that precious stones are considered magical - they connect the subtle plane with the physical world. They make the owner healthier and reveal better qualities. Therefore, they are useful for children so that they become good people.

Its magical specialization depends on the color of the sapphire:

• white – suitable for those seeking connections with the subtle world. It will help you achieve your goal by activating the owner’s potential. Good for a gift to your significant other;
• blue – acts as a sedative, helping to think clearly. Among those who are suitable and even need such a stone are timid, shy people. He will add decisiveness and directness to them. Useful for anyone whose goal is to develop superpowers or activate the “third eye”;
• yellow is a talisman of the family hearth, an amulet against external negativity, anxiety, and inexplicable fears. For practitioners of magic, it will enhance their abilities and connection with the subtle world. Suitable for creative people as a generator of inspiration;
• star-shaped - sharpens intuition;
• green – cures selfishness, forcing you to pay attention to others. The significance of the stone for a house where there is quarrel is palpable, as it extinguishes the problem. Indispensable for remembering dreams;
• pink is a magnet that attracts in real life what the owner is thinking about. Therefore, at the mental level, caution is needed so that troubles do not materialize in one’s life;
• blue - especially with a star, a powerful talisman that attracts good luck, love, an ally on the path of knowledge;
• black is a strong amulet against dark forces and enemies.

The magical properties of sapphire are enhanced by the setting. Gold gives courage and helps you become a winner. This is a symbol of undying love - a sapphire wedding is celebrated after 45 years of marriage.

Silver complements the healing effects of the stone. The stone makes women more attractive and men more decisive. Gives the owner joy, stimulates creativity, strengthens memory, and allows you to realize the craziest ideas.

Video: Unique properties and jewelry made of sapphire

Only natural, untreated sapphire exhibits magical properties and healing effects.

The use of magic is possible only with good intentions. Otherwise, the decoration will remain just a decoration. Often the negativity sent by the owner is returned.

Jewelry with sapphire

The gem is framed in platinum or gold. Jewelry in silver is rarely made due to the discrepancy - the crystal is expensive, and the metal for it is cheap.

Products with sapphire:

• rings;
• rings;
• pendants;
• necklace;
• tiaras;
• pendants;
• brooches

To highlight the beauty of the owner, you need to know how to choose jewelry with sapphire:

• dark shades are suitable for middle-aged or older people;
• light colors look good on young girls;
• Yellow and green stones are suitable for brown-eyed and green-eyed people;
• for gray or blue eyes, cool shades are preferable;
• a massive product adds age;
• small stones can be worn daily, large stones are appropriate for formal events;
• does not combine with moonstone, pearls, amber;
• You need to ask the seller for a stone quality certificate.

How to wear sapphire, examples of combinations:

• milky low-cut dress and blue necklace, silver shadows on the eyelids;
• burgundy classic suit and red earrings;
• boho dress and green drop pendant;
• blue jeans, sand blouse and yellow bracelet.

Stone care

Sapphire is durable and therefore requires simple care:

1. The crystal rarely gets dirty, but traces of grease and sweat remain on its surface, which reduces its shine. To remove them, you need to clean the mineral with a soft brush and baby soap, then rinse well with warm running water. The procedure is carried out 2-3 times a year.
2. After washing, wipe dry with a soft cloth. If you leave the stone to air dry, cloudy stains will appear on top.
3. Store in a case or box separately from other less durable stones. Otherwise, nearby products may be scratched.
4. Do not leave in direct sunlight. The product will fade.

Medicinal qualities

Healers and lithotherapists claim that natural sapphire crystals affect the human energy field, curing headaches, depression, diabetes, dysfunction of the joints and help with paralysis and asthma, women's diseases, and have a good effect on the lungs.

1. A pendant with this stone, located in the heart area, has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, relieving arrhythmia.
2. Water charged with a sapphire stone at sunrise alleviates the condition of patients with kidney and urinary system diseases.
3. To treat abscesses, ulcers, boils and similar problems, sapphires are worn as close to the skin as possible.
4. Crystal in silver relieves problems with the spine and relieves attacks of rheumatic pain.
5. By holding a pebble in cold, clean water for just a few seconds and applying it to your eye, you will receive an amazing remedy for relieving tension in the optic nerve.

Cost of stone and jewelry

Sapphire is expensive even in its raw form - the price of a high-quality blue mineral starts at $100 per carat. Approximate cost of products in thousands of rubles:

• rose gold ring – 15;
• gold earrings – 20;
• gold pendant with laboratory stone – 8;
• neat brooch – 18;
• bracelet – 35;
• necklace – 22.

The most expensive sapphire in the world is called “Blue Beauty of Asia”, its weight is 392.52 carats, and the price at auction reached $17,305,996.

Rare colors are so highly valued that a diamond is no more expensive than a sapphire. In addition, the latter is 2 times heavier than a diamond, i.e. stones of the same volume will have different weights, which affects the cost.

Sapphire is the stone of choice for honest, decent people striving for good goals. He will not help the greedy and envious. Prices for products with large stones are very high, while jewelry with small inserts is realistic to purchase.

What shade of mineral do you like? Do you believe in its healing properties? Tell your friends and acquaintances about the gem - share the article.

How to wear and care

The hardness of the mineral is high, but careful handling will not hurt.

• Products made of gold or platinum (not silver) are cleaned with a soft cloth or brush in a weak solution of washing powder and rinsed.
• A cleaning mixture of baking soda, salt and bleach diluted in warm water is effective. Afterwards, rinse thoroughly.
• Place the jewelry in the soapy solution in the sun for 2–3 hours.
• If the gem is glued, cleaning with an aqueous solution is impossible. It is better to take the jewelry to a jeweler.
• The gem should not be heated too much. If he is ennobled, he will not survive another similar procedure.
• Ammonia (4–6 ml per 180–210 g of water) will refresh jewelry.

Rings, bracelets, and earrings are removed before doing housework, going to the pool, solarium or the beach.

In the box, corundum is stored separately from others so that less durable stones are not damaged.