Neelam (Blue Sapphire) Buying Guide

Colour

The most valued colour is a rich, velvety medium-to-deep blue. Very dark stones can look inky indoors; pale ones are lighter in price. Some sapphires show colour zoning, bands of lighter and darker blue, which is easier to see from the side.

Clarity and cut

Fine silk-like needles are common in natural sapphire and can soften the colour. Avoid stones with visible cracks. Oval and cushion shapes are most common; a good cut shows bright blue across the face without dull patches.

Treatments and certificates

Heating is widely used to improve colour and is accepted. Other treatments, such as diffusion or glass filling, change the value a lot and must be disclosed. Ask for a report from an independent gem laboratory. It confirms the stone is natural, states its weight in carats and lists any treatment. We can arrange testing for any stone you choose from us.

In India stones are often weighed in ratti: one ratti is roughly 0.9 carat, so a 5-ratti stone is about 4.5 carats.

How Neelam is traditionally worn

Neelam is linked with Shani (Saturn). Tradition treats it as a strong stone: many people wear it on a trial basis for a few days before setting it, and wear it on the middle finger, often first on a Saturday. These are traditional beliefs, not proven effects. Many families consult their own astrologer for the stone, weight, finger and day to wear it; we are happy to work to their advice.

Care

Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Store separately so it doesn't scratch softer stones or get scratched by diamonds.

Neelam (Blue Sapphire) at Arihant Jewellers

• Blue Sapphire (Neelam)
• Light Blue Sapphire

Questions