Blue gemstones have captivated people for centuries with their stunning hues, symbolic significance, and fascinating geological origins, forming deep within the Earth under immense pressure over millions of years. From royal sapphires to serene aquamarines, they are prized for their beauty, rarity, and elegance. Their unmatched versatility makes them a favourite for creating timeless pieces of fine jewellery, from engagement rings to bespoke necklaces. These treasures of the earth tell stories of ancient times, reflect cultural values, and represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship in the jewellery industry. Whether found in the depths of historic mines or passed down through generations, blue gemstones remain as relevant today as they were centuries ago. In this guide, we explore the families of blue gemstones, what makes them valuable, their historical and cultural significance, and where you can find them today. Whether you are a collector, a jewellery enthusiast, or someone seeking inspiration for your next jewellery design, this article provides all the insights you need to know about blue gemstones.
Fun Fact: The world’s largest sapphire, the “Star of Adam,” weighs a whopping 1,404 carats and was discovered in Sri Lanka—a gem truly worthy of royalty.
The Families of Blue Gemstones: From Sapphires to Aquamarines
Blue gemstones come in a variety of families, each with unique characteristics that make them suitable for different types of bespoke gemstone jewellery. Among the most famous are sapphires and aquamarines, but there are many others to consider, each contributing to the vibrancy of the jewellery world.
Sapphires: Known as the “king of gemstones,” sapphires belong to the corundum family and are revered for their deep, velvety blue shades. Sapphires are also incredibly durable, making them ideal for sapphire engagement rings that can withstand daily wear. They come in various shades, from cornflower blue to almost black, ensuring versatility for all jewellery designs.
Aquamarines: Part of the beryl family, aquamarines are celebrated for their lighter, pastel blue tones that evoke the tranquillity of the sea. Their serene colour is reminiscent of calm waters, making them a popular choice for aquamarine jewellery designs that highlight elegance and subtle charm. Their clarity and light-reflecting properties make them a top pick for bespoke necklaces and earrings.
Blue Topaz: This gemstone is prized for its affordability and bright blue colour. Blue topaz often appears in modern jewellery designs due to its brilliant clarity and radiant hue. With shades ranging from sky blue to Swiss blue, this gem offers a contemporary look at a reasonable price point.
Tanzanite: A rare gemstone found only in Tanzania, tanzanite boasts a striking violet-blue hue. Its exclusivity makes it a sought-after option for collectors and high-end jewellery enthusiasts. The uniqueness of its single-origin location adds to its mystique, making it a centrepiece for high-value jewellery collections.
Lapis Lazuli: Known for its deep, opaque blue, lapis lazuli has held cultural and artistic significance for thousands of years. It often features gold flecks of pyrite, adding a unique touch to its natural beauty. This gemstone’s history dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was used in amulets, scarabs, and the burial mask of King Tutankhamun, symbolising the heavens. Beyond Egypt, Mesopotamian rulers adorned themselves with lapis lazuli in royal seals and jewellery, valuing it as a mark of prestige. During the Renaissance, this gemstone was ground into powder to produce ultramarine, one of the most expensive pigments in art, famously used in paintings by masters such as Vermeer and Michelangelo. Lapis lazuli’s vibrant colour and historical richness make it an enduring choice in jewellery and decorative arts.
The Most Valuable Blue Gemstones and What Makes Them Priceless
Not all blue gemstones are created equal. Their value depends on factors like rarity, clarity, colour, and provenance. Understanding these attributes can help you appreciate what sets the most valuable gemstones apart from the rest.
Sapphires: The deep blue hue of sapphires from Kashmir is considered the pinnacle of gemstone quality. Kashmir sapphires are almost impossible to find today, making them one of the most expensive varieties of blue gemstone jewellery. Their unique “silk-like” inclusions give them an unmatched softness in appearance.
Aquamarines: Although more affordable than sapphires, aquamarines can fetch high prices if they exhibit exceptional clarity and a vibrant blue colour. Large, high-grade aquamarines from Brazil are particularly prized, especially when cut into creative, eye-catching shapes.
Tanzanite: The rarity of tanzanite—mined only in a small area of Tanzania—greatly enhances its value. The deeper the blue with violet undertones, the more expensive it becomes. Top-grade tanzanite rivals even the finest sapphires in terms of allure and demand.
Blue Diamonds: These are among the rarest and most valuable gemstones in the world. The famous Hope Diamond, for instance, is valued at over $200 million. Blue diamonds owe their unique colour to traces of boron, making them a true geological marvel.
Top Mines Around the Globe That Produce Rare Blue Gemstones
Some of the most beautiful precious gemstone mines are located in regions with unique geological formations that foster the creation of blue gemstones. These places are treasures in themselves, holding the secrets of the earth’s most stunning creations.
Sri Lanka: Known as the “Island of Gems,” Sri Lanka is home to some of the finest sapphires ever discovered, including the famous “Star of Adam.” The gem-rich Ratnapura region has been a source of high-quality gemstones for centuries.
Myanmar (Burma): Renowned for producing deep blue Burmese sapphires, Myanmar has been a significant source of high-quality gemstones for centuries. The Mogok region, often called the “Valley of Rubies,” also yields exceptional blue gems.
Tanzania: The sole source of tanzanite, Tanzania’s Mererani Hills yield this exclusive violet-blue gem. Mining is tightly controlled to preserve the rarity of this beautiful gemstone.
Brazil: Famous for its aquamarines, Brazil’s mines produce some of the world’s largest and clearest specimens of this gemstone. Minas Gerais is particularly renowned for its exceptional aquamarine finds.
Afghanistan: This region is celebrated for its lapis lazuli deposits, which have been mined for over 6,000 years. The gemstone’s historical significance makes it a favourite for collectors and historians alike.
Choosing the Best Metal to Highlight Blue Gemstones in Jewellery
Pairing blue gemstones with the right metal can elevate their brilliance and create a harmonious design. Certain metals also play a key role in the longevity and durability of the gemstones, helping to protect them from scratches, tarnishing, and damage over time. The right pairing ensures not only beauty but also resilience, making the jewellery last for generations. The metal serves as the foundation, enhancing the natural beauty of the gemstone.
White Gold: The cool tones of white gold complement the deep hues of sapphires and tanzanites, making it a popular choice for sapphire engagement rings. Its neutral colour enhances the gemstone’s brilliance without overshadowing it.
Platinum: Known for its durability and lustrous finish, platinum pairs beautifully with light blue gemstones like aquamarines. Platinum’s hypoallergenic properties also make it a practical choice for sensitive skin.
Yellow Gold: For a striking contrast, yellow gold enhances the boldness of blue gemstones like lapis lazuli and blue topaz. Its warmth provides a rich background that makes the gemstone stand out.
Rose Gold: This metal adds a romantic touch, especially when combined with softer blue gemstones like aquamarines. The blush tones of rose gold create a unique, modern aesthetic.
The Historical Significance and Symbolism of Blue Gemstones
Throughout history, blue gemstones have symbolised wisdom, truth, and loyalty. Their association with royalty has made them a symbol of power and prestige, and their roles in legends and myths have only added to their allure.
Sapphires: In medieval times, sapphires were believed to protect their wearers from envy and harm. They also symbolised divine favour, making them a popular choice for religious jewellery and royal crowns.
Aquamarines: Ancient sailors carried aquamarines as talismans to protect against storms and ensure safe voyages. The gem’s connection to water has also made it a symbol of tranquillity and healing.
Lapis Lazuli: Used by the ancient Egyptians, lapis lazuli adorned the tombs of pharaohs and symbolised the heavens. It was also ground into powder to create ultramarine pigment, one of the most expensive and prized colours in art history.
Famous Owners and Iconic Blue Gemstone Jewellery Pieces
Blue gemstones have adorned the crowns and collections of some of the most famous figures in history, cementing their status as symbols of wealth and sophistication.
Princess Diana’s Engagement Ring: Featuring a stunning 12-carat oval blue sapphire, this ring is now worn by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. It remains one of the most iconic sapphire engagement rings ever created.
Elizabeth Taylor’s Bulgari Sapphire Necklace: This legendary piece featured a Burmese sapphire weighing 52 carats and remains one of the most iconic examples of blue gemstone jewellery. Elizabeth Taylor’s love for gemstones brought global attention to the beauty of sapphires.
The Hope Diamond: Believed to be cursed, this 45.52-carat blue diamond is housed in the Smithsonian Institution and attracts millions of visitors annually. Its storied history only adds to its mystique.
Top Hatton Garden Stores for Finding Unique Blue Gemstone Creations
Hatton Garden, London’s jewellery hub, is the ultimate destination for those seeking exceptional Hatton Garden gemstone specialists. Compared to other global jewellery centres like New York’s Diamond District or Mumbai’s Zaveri Bazaar, Hatton Garden is renowned for its rich heritage, expert craftsmanship, and a vast selection of bespoke jewellery options, making it a preferred choice for those seeking high-quality, handcrafted pieces.
Engagement Rings Boutique: Known for its luxury offerings, this boutique specialises in creating stunning and timeless jewellery, including pieces with rare blue gemstones.
Holts Lapidary – Gemstone Suppliers: With highly experienced in-house gemologists and lapidaries, Holts is a trusted source of high-quality gemstone jewellery.
World Gemological Institute: This institute stands out for offering high-quality gemstones, all verified by graduates of the Gemological Institute of America.
Austen & Blake: A luxury diamond jeweller making custom-made jewellery accessible, featuring exquisite designs with rare gemstones.
Holts Gems: Established in 1948, Holts Gems has built a reputation for quality and expertise, offering bespoke jewellery designs and rare gemstone collections.
Conclusion
Blue gemstones hold a timeless appeal that transcends cultures and eras. Whether you’re drawn to the velvety allure of sapphires, the calming hues of aquamarines, or the exclusivity of tanzanite, these gems add unmatched beauty and value to fine jewellery. By understanding their families, history, and the best ways to highlight them, you can create or acquire pieces that stand the test of time. For those seeking bespoke designs or rare gemstones, Hatton Garden remains a premier destination, offering unparalleled craftsmanship and expertise.
