Sapphires are timeless gemstones that complement every jewelry style beautifully, making this September birthstone an excellent choice for engagement rings and lasting pieces like pendants or bracelets.
The 4 C's of Diamond Buying also apply when selecting blue sapphire stone: Color, Clarity, Carat Weight and Shape. Let's discuss each aspect to help you easily choose your engagement ring sapphire.
- Color
Color plays an integral role in assessing a sapphire's value, so consider purchasing one with a deep and rich blue hue that's uniform across its entirety - anything less would be regarded as lower quality than an ideal specimen.
According to ancient tradition, blue sapphire or Neelam is one of the nine sacred stones known as Navratnas that is associated with Saturn (Shani). This gemstone can help bring financial prosperity, good health, love and affection into one's life if worn during its main periods within one's birth chart and after consulting an astrologer for guidance.
- Clarity
Clarity in sapphire refers to the size, number and placement of inclusions within a stone; generally speaking, the fewer inclusions there are the higher its clarity grade will be. Natural sapphire will always contain some inclusions; they should remain invisible to the naked eye. Clarity also depends upon how an expert craftsman cuts a stone in terms of extinction, symmetry windowing and brilliance.
Finally, it is also necessary to consider the origin of your blue sapphire. Sapphires from Ceylon (formerly Sri Lanka) are known for their even pastel to rich royal blue color and have long been treasured by royalty. Gems from other locations may feature more intense or darker blue shades and dichroism, the ability to show two colors within one stone called parti-sapphires.
- Carat
As with any precious stone, sapphires that stand out are those with exceptional clarity - near-eye flawless, but minor inclusions of rutile silk may still be acceptable. Additionally, no color zoning should be present.
Sapphires are measured in carats, with one carat equaling one-fifth of a gram. Different from diamonds, fine-quality sapphires may sometimes conform to standard calibrated sizes and therefore, be more costly; this practice ensures their superior quality.
Gemologists should be able to advise you on the appropriate carat weight based on your circumstances and astrological chart, as well as any special considerations such as health. When purchasing Neelam stone it is always a good idea to seek their endorsement by an established astrologer and have them tested as genuine and pure before wearing. It is also recommended that blue sapphire be purified before wear by immersing it thrice into Ganga-jal or raw cow's milk for additional effectiveness as it will reduce side effects associated with wear.
- Shape
Neelam (Blue Sapphire), is a breathtaking gemstone representing beauty and power. As the birthstone for September, it is said to align one's destiny with celestial forces while protecting against negative karmic influences. Vedic astrology links this magnificent gem with Saturn (Shani), allowing it to instill wisdom and discipline into one's life.
Sapphires come in an extensive array of shapes and sizes, with round and oval being among the most commonly seen conditions. Other popular cuts include cushion, princess cut and emerald cut. There are also unique shape options such as high dome "sugarloaf" sapphires which are sought-after due to their distinct look and excellent clarity; these rare gems may often cost more than standard cabochons.
