If all the jewelry in the world were encrusted with simple white diamonds, you must admit that both the men who give them and the women who wear them would be tired of them long ago. Blue stones look much more original, fresh and fascinating in various types of jewelry. Such minerals are very diverse, among them there are both semi-precious and precious specimens, all of them look and shimmer differently. In this article we will look at the main existing blue stones, names, photos and their compatibility with zodiac signs, as well as a few more features.
First on the list are precious minerals.
Sapphire
This is the king of blue and blue stones, which everyone associates with the sea, silence, grandeur and peace. In nature, there are also green, pink, yellow and other types of sapphire, but the light blue shade of this stone is on the agenda. It is in this color that it is most often used by jewelers in the manufacture of earrings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets. The density of the stone is 9 units, and particles of iron and titanium give the mineral its coveted sea shade.
The stone received its strikingly beautiful name back in Ancient Persia. The people of this power that had sunk into oblivion believed that our Earth stood on a huge sapphire, and the sky was its reflection. The word itself is translated from ancient Persian as “blue”.
Like all existing stones, sapphire is credited with certain sacred properties. For example, it is believed that it gets rid of negative energy and puts you in a calm and peaceful mood. Allows you to more soberly assess the situation, not pay attention to trifles and confidently develop according to the planned plan. This unique blue stone is also believed to attract fidelity and love, help combat insomnia and even treat diseases such as asthma and cancer.
How to wear
Jewelry with aquamarine is self-sufficient and aristocratic. Framed in precious metal, they are ideal for celebrations and special occasions.
So, it is better to wear a necklace with this stone to a social reception than to a youth party. However, minimalist products with his participation are literally created for daily wear and summer holidays, emphasizing the grace, lightness and charm of their owners.
Aquamarine looks equally organic in images of women of different ages. The cheerful color of the stones is ideal for children's earrings.
Inserts of less bright colors often decorate men's signets, cufflinks and bracelets. They are good for men of intellectual and creative professions, especially for those who work with words, speak in public, and teach.
Pendants with raw minerals look interesting, creating a unique image and emphasizing individual style.
Topaz
A precious, but relatively inexpensive mineral, which can often be found in jewelry made of both white gold and silver. Just looking at the photo of the blue stone, you understand that it looks like a piece of the southern sea sharpened in an invisible frame. It is delicate, translucent, weightless, but at the same time very dense (8 units of hardness).
Legends of Ancient India also tell about the origin of this mineral. It is believed that it was named after the island of Topazionis, where it was found, and the word “topaz” itself means “warmth”.
The mineral's reputation has made it one of the most popular amulets in the world. This blue stone brings spiritual harmony, gives mental stability and peace, eliminates stress and neuroses. It also attracts finances, gives you the opportunity to improve your home and make life more comfortable. Topaz is a blue natural stone that has beneficial effects on the spleen, liver, thyroid gland and gallbladder.
About fakes
Imitations of Aquamarine are widespread. Without the appropriate mark in the product description, they may be considered a fake.
Most often, this role is played by heat-treated or colored Beryl, blue Topaz, synthetic stones - Corundum, Spinel or Quartz. Often only a gemologist can distinguish them.
But colored glass can be recognized independently: it has less weight and heats up quickly in the hand, unlike natural mineral, and besides, it is easy to scratch.
Very often, refined Aquamarine is used in jewelry. This is a natural stone, the characteristics of which are improved using heat, pressure, build-up, and surface coloring.
Such stones are not considered fakes, but should be slightly cheaper than untreated specimens of the same brightness. Hydrothermally synthesized minerals are also found on the market, but in limited quantities.
Aquamarine
The name of the blue stone, which literally represents the ocean, is translated from Latin as “sea water”. This mineral is rightfully considered one of the most fascinating and unusual, as evidenced not only by its beautiful name, but also by its appearance. The stone is both dense and transparent. It seems to glow and shimmer at the slightest ray of light, but it is impossible to see through it, since according to the Mohs table the hardness of the stone is 8 units.
Aquamarine is considered a magical mineral. It normalizes mental health, eliminates stress, calms and allows you to bravely overcome any difficulties. Ancient sailors believed that if you put a piece of aquamarine in your pocket, it would help avoid storms and other sea misfortunes. The stone heals, even from a distance, skin infections, dental diseases and helps get rid of blindness.
How to distinguish a real stone from a fake?
To avoid purchasing a fake, jewelers advise touching the stone with your cheek. A real mineral will give off a feeling of sea coolness, which is explained by its low thermal conductivity.
The shade of the gem also helps prevent the purchase of a fake. Real gems don't come in too rich or bright colors, especially yellow topaz. Therefore, if a bright stone sparkles in a product, then you should think about its authenticity. Real gems are characterized by pastel colors and a delicate richness, similar to the color of morning fog.
Gold earrings with topaz “Marmalade” (go to the SUNLIGHT catalogue)
We should not forget about the structure and shape of the stone. Everyone understands that a natural mineral cannot be delicately polished. Particular perfection, as a rule, is an indicator of artificiality. Natural samples are even characterized by some defects and cracks, which does not deprive them of their status at all.
This type of crystal has one more quality - it can become electrified. If a pebble is rubbed against a piece of woolen fabric, it will be able to attract small objects, such as a piece of thread. This is also an indicator of authenticity.
Spinel
This name was given to the blue colored stone (found in Afghanistan and Sri Lanka) by the inhabitants of the Roman Empire. Previously, it sounded like spinella, which literally translates as “thorn.” This is not surprising, because in nature this mineral has an extremely sharp and angular shape. The name was later transformed into the German word spinnel, which is still used today. This stone is considered very rare, so its cost is extremely high. Most often found in very expensive jewelry, in private collections and in the inlay of church attributes.
Spinel is considered a stone of love and happiness. Finding it is as difficult as true love. The mineral can be worn every day in a ring or pendant, or it can be stored at home - this will not diminish its properties. Along with all this, the stone is suitable for healing the body, strengthening the immune system.
Now we move on to consider semi-precious blue stones. Their names, features, photographs and specifics will be described below.
How to care
This stone has the unpleasant property of fading in the sun. It should not be worn frequently on the beach or left in the sun.
The product should be stored in a separate box or bag. The pebble is hard, but quite fragile and needs to be treated with care. Remove jewelry before cleaning, visiting the fitness club and saunas, long trips, hiking and jogging.
You can wipe the mineral with a soft cloth or microfiber cloth. Wash it in a weak soap solution and then rinse under running clean water. (It is better to take a baby or household product without any additives). After washing, the stone is wiped dry with a delicate cloth.
Zirconium
This stone is a very high quality and worthy substitute for sapphire, topaz and aquamarine. Amazingly, in nature there are countless shades of zirconium, which can also imitate stones of other colors. The most valuable shade of this mineral is considered light blue, since its hardness is 7-8 units. In the old days, the stone was very common; it was used not only as an “honest” substitute for jewelry, but also many jewelry was counterfeited with its help. Nowadays, this niche has been occupied by cubic zirconia, and zirconium has become less in demand in jewelry.
Zirconium is considered a stone of joy and happiness. It eliminates bad moods, takes away negative thoughts, and creates an aura of happiness, fun, and joy around you. Zirconium can help cope with liver and thyroid problems.
Description
Important! The stones differ from each other not only in shades of blue, transparency or saturation, each of them has its own individual properties.
Sapphire
Mineral – Sapphire
| Property | Description |
| Formula | Al2O3 |
| Impurity | Fe2+, Fe3+, Ti |
| Hardness | 9 on the Mohs scale |
| Density | 3.95—4.00 g/cm³ |
| Refractive index | 1,766—1,774 |
| singonia | Trigonal. |
| Kink | Uneven to conchoidal. |
| Cleavage | Absent. |
| Shine | Glass. |
| Transparency | From transparent to opaque. |
| Color | Blue and cyan in various shades, colorless, pink, orange, yellow, green, violet, black. |
The only blue gemstone of the 1st order, like ruby, emerald and diamond. Sapphire is a type of corundum, the blue color of which is due to the presence of titanium and iron impurities. For magical purposes, dark blue sapphires interspersed with ray stars are used. Such a pebble attracts wealth and good luck and helps arrange your personal life. For people who practice magic, sapphire will help develop psychic abilities and establish a connection with the other world. The mineral strengthens the immune system, relieves many gynecological diseases, and even helps with infertility.
Also read: 12 Most Popular Green Minerals
Spinel (sapphire spinel)
| Property | Description |
| Formula | MgAl2O4 |
| Hardness | 8—8,5 |
| Density | 3.57—3.72 g/cm³ |
| Refractive index | 1,71—1,76 |
| Transparency | Transparent. |
| Kink | Conchoidal. |
| Cleavage | Imperfect. |
| singonia | Cubic. |
| Color | Green, purple, yellow, colorless, red, pink, blue. |
A very rare gemstone in blue color. This mineral brings good luck and improves mood. If worn on the ring finger, it will bring the owner a feeling of complete happiness and inspiration. Sapphire spinel will help with diseases of the endocrine system, kidneys, liver and lungs.
Indigolite (blue tourmaline)
| Properties | Description |
| Formula | Na(Li,Al)3Al6[(OH)4|(BO3)3Si6O18] |
| Color | Blue, red-violet, colorless, black, polychrome, pink, red, orange-brown, green. |
| Shine | Glass. |
| Transparency | From transparent to opaque. |
| Hardness | 7—7,5 |
| Cleavage | Unclear. |
| Kink | Uneven, small-cancerous, fragile. |
| Refractive index | 1,616—1,652 |
| Density | 3.02—3.26 g/cm³ |
A relatively inexpensive gemstone, its color can range from blue-green to greenish-blue. Indigolite helps maintain marital relationships, gives peace and tranquility, and is used in meditation. Indigo tourmaline normalizes the production of thyroid and adrenal hormones.
Iolite
| Property | Description |
| Formula | Ca2(Mg,Fe)5[Si4O11]2(OH)2 |
| Hardness | 6-6,5 |
| Density | 2.95 - 3.4 g/cm³ |
| Refractive index | 1,62 |
| singonia | Monoclinic. |
| Kink | Conchoidal or paraffin-like. |
| Shine | Glassy or greasy. |
| Transparency | From translucent in chips and plates 1-1.5 cm wide to opaque. |
| Color | Shades of green, yellow, red, white and gray. |
A variety of cordierite, its color can vary from dark blue to purple. This mineral is also called water sapphire, lynx sapphire, blue jade. It helps the owner control his emotions and experiences, and avoid conflicts in the family. Iolite is suitable for people who do not know how to spend money correctly; it will help them learn how to manage their funds wisely. Water sapphire helps cleanse the body and reduce pain.
Important! Iolite helps in the fight against alcohol addiction and excess weight.
Augustite (maxis-beryl)
A dark blue variety of beryl. It protects the family hearth, improves relationships between spouses, and helps avoid troubles while traveling. Maxis-beryl treats colds, improves metabolism, and helps with women's diseases.
Lapis lazuli (lapis lazuli)
| Property | Description |
| Formula | Na[(AlSiO4)SO4] |
| Impurities | Spars and pyrite. |
| Hardness | 5,5 |
| Density | 2.38 - 2.42 g/cm³ |
| Refractive index | 1,5 |
| singonia | Cubic. |
| Kink | Conchoidal and granular. |
| Cleavage | Implicit. |
| Shine | Glass. |
| Transparency | Translucent. |
| Color | From dark blue to light blue. |
Dense, uniformly colored dark blue mineral. It will bring success and good luck in financial matters and contribute to business prosperity. In the Middle Ages they believed that pebbles would fulfill their deepest wishes. Lapis lazuli helps to easily endure pregnancy, overcome insomnia, and improves brain function.
Tanzanite
| Property | Description |
| Formula | Ca2Al3(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH) |
| Hardness | 6,5 — 7 |
| Density | 3.35 g/cm³ |
| Refractive index | 1,691 — 1,700 |
| Kink | Uneven. |
| Fragility | Fragile. |
| Cleavage | Perfect. |
| singonia | Rhombic. |
| Shine | Glass. |
| Transparency | Transparent. |
| Color | Sapphire blue to amethyst purple. |
Also read: Jewelry with Chrysolite
A very rare and expensive stone, its color ranges from sapphire blue to deep purple, the tone depending on the lighting. Tanzanite will improve mutual understanding in the family and bring harmony to relationships. If you wear it constantly, it will help you identify hidden abilities and understand the meaning of life. The gem helps those suffering from fever and strengthens vision.
Sodalite
| Property | Description |
| Formula | 3Na2O•3Al2O3•6SiO2•2NaCl |
| Hardness | 5,5 — 6 |
| Density | 2.29 g/cm³ |
| singonia | Cubic |
| Kink | Rough or conchoidal |
| Cleavage | Implicit |
| Shine | Glassy or greasy |
| Transparency | Transparent or translucent |
| Color | Blue, white, pink, gray and green |
Quite a rare semi-precious mineral. They come in a variety of colors, but deep blue stones are the most popular. Sodalite helps develop supernatural abilities and intuition. For women, it helps increase attractiveness and sexuality. For medical purposes, sodalite is used to treat patients affected by radiation.
Aventurine
| Property | Description |
| Formula | SiO2 |
| Hardness | 7 |
| Density | 2.6 g/cm³ |
| Shine | Fatty. |
| Transparency | Opaque. |
| Color | White, pink, yellow, red, brown, green, blue. |
A fine-grained variety of quartzite with various shades and inclusions of mica. It will help you find true love, give the owner optimism and good mood, and bring good luck to gambling people.
Important! Aventurine does not help liars and people with bad intentions.
For medicinal purposes, the mineral will relieve colds and reduce blood pressure.
Petersit
| Property | Description |
| Formula | (Y,Ce,Nd,Ca)Cu6(PO4)3(OH)6*3H2O |
| Hardness | 3 – 4 |
| Density | 3.42 g/cm³ |
| Molecular weight | 927,20 |
| singonia | Hexagonal |
| Kink | Uneven |
| Shine | Glass |
| Transparency | Translucent or opaque |
| Color | Bright yellowish green, gray or blue |
One of the subspecies of tiger eye. Namibian petersite has a bluer hue, in contrast to Chinese. The mineral is worn in a ring as a talisman; it protects against any negative influence. Petersite has a beneficial effect on the endocrine and nervous systems, calms unmotivated attacks of aggression, and in a gold pendant helps against depression.
Sapphirine
A rare mineral of the silicate class, often confused with light blue chalcedony. Its color can range from light blue to bright blue and dark green. Sapphirine is a symbol of longevity and patience. It will help cope with negative emotions, protect against negative energy, and promote material well-being. Sapphirine helps with vision problems, kidney and urinary tract pathologies.
Azurite (copper glaze)
| Property | Description |
| Formula | Cu3(СО3)2(ОН)2 or (CuCO3)2 Cu(OH)2 |
| Hardness | 3,5 — 4 |
| Refractive index | nα = 1.730; nβ = 1.758; nγ = 1.838 |
| Density | 3.5—4 g/cm³ |
| Kink | Conchoidal. |
| singonia | Monoclinic. |
| Cleavage | Perfect. |
| Dispersion | Weak. |
| Transparency | Transparent or opaque. |
| Color | Azure blue, dark blue, sometimes to greenish-violet. |
A brittle mineral that is copper ore. It is used in jewelry, in painting for the production of tempera paint, in pyrotechnics for green fireworks, in industry for the production of copper and copper sulfate. Its magical properties are to increase the power of consciousness, raise the level of spiritual health, and understand your purpose.
Important! Azurite has very strong energy, so it is not recommended to wear it for more than a month in a row, otherwise it will lead to internal imbalance.
Azurite will cope well with melancholy, hysteria, hallucinations, and will facilitate the treatment of fractures and asthma attacks.
Also read: Topaz – a mineral of wisdom and tranquility
Irnimite (blue jasper)
| Property | Description |
| Formulas | The main formula is SiO2, the rest with impurities are Al2O3, Fe3O4, etc. |
| Hardness | 7 |
| Density | 2.65 g/cm³ |
| Transparency | Opaque. |
| Color | Green, black, bloody, blue, etc. |
They are mined only in Russia. Its cherry-orange-gray color is broken up by bright blue spots and veins. Irnimite is used as a body amulet against the evil eye and damage, as a family amulet against quarrels and betrayals. He protects pregnant women. Siberian shamans used irnimit to treat colds, liver and genitourinary system diseases.
A mystical stone of extraordinary color. One of its varieties, the black moon labrador, has the color of the night sky with dark blue spots. Labrador is a reliable guardian of marriage; for this, the man must have a light color, and the woman must have a dark color. With the help of Labradorite, colds, diseases of bones, joints, and muscles are treated.
Chrysocolla
| Property | Description |
| Formula | (Cu, Al)2H2Si2O5(OH)4.nH2O |
| Hardness | 2 — 4 |
| Density | 2.1 g/cm³ |
| Refractive index | 1,5 |
| Kink | Conchoidal. |
| singonia | Rhombic. |
| Cleavage | Absent. |
| Shine | Glassy, waxy or greasy. |
| Transparency | Opaque, sometimes slightly translucent. |
| Color | Blue, cyan and green. |
A fragile and delicate mineral with a crystalline shine. Externally, the mineral is similar to malachite, but its main color is deep blue or light blue. The gem is valued among magicians and esotericists - it helps them discover the secrets of the universe. The stone brings dreamers down to earth and returns them to a sense of reality. Chrysocolla relieves young children of fears and nightmares.
Chalcedony
Many historians and simply lovers of learning something new ask the question: “What is the name of the blue stone, which was the most popular among the Romans?” These ancient people were very fond of using the semi-precious mineral chalcedony, once discovered in the Bosporus region. The name comes from the city of Chalcedon, near which the stone was discovered. The density of the mineral is 6-7 units, it has a delicate, coolish light blue tint. The texture of the mineral can be either glossy or matte.
The ancient Romans believed that chalcedony was a stone of love. He did not attract passion, but attracted true feelings that could last a lifetime. It was also believed that the stone served as a source of joy in painful and boring sea voyages. Nowadays, chalcedony is believed to treat various mental disorders. It eliminates insomnia, banishes nightmares, and allows you to quickly cope with stress and depression.
Moon rock
People are often interested in the name of the blue stone, which is popularly called the moon stone. The correct answer is adularia. This mysterious and mystical mineral received this name in honor of Mount Adula (Switzerland), near which it was found. The blue transparent stone began to be called moonstone because its bluish-grayish tints really transport us into space and make us think about something mysterious and unearthly. The mineral is very beautiful and unique, although very common. Its density is 6-6.5 units.
Over the centuries, many magical properties have been attributed to adularia. It was believed that it saves from depression, attracts love, and allows you to establish contact with a higher mind. Nowadays, it has been established that the stone really alleviates the suffering of those who have epilepsy, who are depressed or who are experiencing a severe nervous breakdown.
Ornamental stones of blue colors
Such natural materials are now available to everyone, and their price is very low. But this does not mean that they are ugly or too simple. In terms of their originality, some ornamental minerals can compete with true jewelry. Let's find out what gifts nature has given us, coloring them blue.
- Turquoise. This is the queen among ornamental stones, which is loved by everyone. The mineral was first discovered in Ancient Egypt and began to be worn as an amulet. Nowadays blue, green-blue and pale green turquoise are found in nature. Also note that most turquoise stones have patterns that look very attractive. Despite this, a stone whose color is uniform is considered more valuable. People believe that this mineral can cope with migraines. It also enhances concentration and allows you to achieve your goal without distraction.
- Amazonite. The translucent stone of a soft blue hue has been loved by mankind since ancient times. Our ancestors made not only body jewelry from amazonite, but also crafts for the home. The mineral is considered publicly available, but its properties are very diverse. It is able to protect the body from aging, protect it from harmful radiation, eliminate spasms and relieve any pain. Amazonite is also believed to open the “third eye.”
- Apatite. A very fragile stone that was often used as a substitute for jewelry. With proper processing, it can pass for chalcedony and even sapphire. Apatite is considered a prophetic stone. He is able to provoke visions and induce prophetic dreams.
Blue Gems for Collectibles
Some gemstones are best used for display purposes only, as they are susceptible to impacts and scratches. While these blue gemstones may not be suitable for jewelry, they will add color and interest to a collection.
Smithsonite
Smithsonite, or zinc spar (zinc carbonate), is both brittle and soft. However, cut stone can have impressive dispersion. This fire makes it desirable for gem lovers. Although Smithsonite comes in a variety of colors, the blue to blue-green material is a favorite among mineral collectors.
Blue, striped and opaque smithsonite cabochons on display at the Mineralogical Museum, Bonn, Germany. © Ra'ike
Vivianite
Vivianite is so soft that you can scratch it with your fingernail! In addition, this mineral darkens in light. Most specimens emerge from the ground colorless or have a pale green tint. Over time they may turn dark blue. Despite the problems associated with vivianite, several specialists were able to cut this stone.
How long were the vivianite cabochons exposed to light? © Brittany Tucker
Halite
This may be the most delicious gem ever. Halite is the mineral term for sodium chloride, more commonly known as salt. Defects in the crystal lattice can give it unusual colors: royal blue or purple. Mineral collectors are looking for the perfect cubic crystals. Due to its solubility, brittleness, perfect three-way splitting and low hardness, this stone is almost impossible to cut.
The deep blue hues and cubic shape make blue halite a wonderful addition to any collection. © Rob Lavinsky
Hemimorphite
This zinc silicate mineral can range in color from pale to deep blue. Crystalline hemimorphite is rare, but there are cabochons of massive specimens. Some mineral samples have the appearance of microcrystals. In addition, several large crystals were mined and then cut. However, this stone is fragile and soft, so any stones are suitable for the collection.
Blue and vibrant hemimorphite like this example from China is perfect for any collection. © James St. John
Will speed up
This iron arsenate is soft and quite brittle, making it unsuitable for wearing in jewelry. However, the main reason not to use scorodite in jewelry is its arsenic content. Although scorodite is not very toxic in its mineral state, exposure of this stone to water (such as sweat) can cause arsenic to leach away. Crystals large enough to be cut do occur, although they are rare. However, some artisans have used their skills to demonstrate the blue colors of this dangerous mineral. If you decide to cut scorodite, take precautions. Avoid breathing dust or fumes and wash your hands thoroughly.
Precious scorodite specimens from Tsumeb, Namibia. © Rob Lavinsky
Cavansite
Cavansite crystals, which are most commonly found in Pune, India, can have a beautiful blue hue. However, specimens large and transparent enough for cutting are extremely rare. Sometimes druse or massive cavansite is worn as decoration, but these stones are soft and fragile.
Bright greenish-blue crystals of cavansite on stilbite from the Pune region, India. © Géry Parent
Based on an article from the website https://www.gemsociety.org/article/blue-gemstones/
Stones and zodiac signs
- Sapphire is recommended for everyone except Capricorn.
- Topaz suits everyone, but harmonizes best with Scorpios.
- Aquamarine is a godsend for Pisces.
- Spinel can be worn by everyone, but this stone truly belongs to Virgos.
- Zirconium is a stone belonging to Sagittarius. Contraindicated for Cancers and Pisces.
- Chalcedony - there are no contraindications, but it is most suitable for Gemini, Capricorn and Leo.
- Moonstone - suitable for water signs: Pisces, Cancer and Scorpio.
- Turquoise goes perfectly with all signs.
- Amazonite is considered the patron saint of Taurus.
- Apatite suits everyone except Pisces.
Magical and healing properties
All heavenly colored minerals have similar magical and healing properties.
Medicinal properties:
- strengthen the immune system (lapis lazuli, amazonite, apatite, larimar);
- help with inflammatory processes (spinel);
- reduce anxiety, relieve stress, panic attacks, insomnia (sapphirine);
- help with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidneys (zircon, aquamarine, topaz);
- relieve pain, help in the treatment of cancer (sapphire, turquoise, iolite);
- prolong youth (jade, coral).
Almost all stones of a heavenly shade are powerful protective talismans, the action of which is aimed at:
- development of awareness, intuition (topaz, larimar, aquamarine);
- development of creative abilities, memory, attention (topaz, zircon);
- strengthening relationships both in the family and at work, with friends (spinel, jade, amazonite, moonstone, tourmaline, iolite);
- brings financial well-being (apatite, sapphire).
