Blue Gemstones: Lapis, Tanzanite & Sapphire – Oh My!

Blue gemstones are valued by numerous individuals for a variety of reasons. For example, the sapphire is the gemstone or birthstone for the month of September. It is associated with the properties of healing, patience, and loyalty. Their popularity has led them to be featured in many different types of jewelry. The use of blue gemstones in wedding jewelry, especially engagement rings, is popular amongst those who are looking for an alternative to traditional diamond jewelry. Often times, a gemstone, like the sapphire or the boulder opal, will be available in a variety of different colors, but blue remains one of the most rare and sought after stones in the color spectrum. Some of the more popular versions of blue gemstones include:

Lapis Lazuli – This especially rare blue stone is mined in Afghanistan and the surrounding regions. Due to the properties that certain religions believe the stone has, the jewelry created from the lapis lazuli is almost always in the form of a necklace that rests near the throat.
Blue Topaz – Blue topaz is one of the most common forms of blue gemstones. It is primarily mined in Texas in the United States; however, it can found be found all over the world. According to those who believe in the mystical properties of gemstones, blue topaz is said to assist a person in meditation and in connecting with one’s soul.
Sapphires – As aforementioned, sapphires are actually available in a wide variety of colors; however, blue is among the most prized. The other properties it is associated with include spiritual truth, love, and purity. There are some Shamanic tribes who use the stone in their religious rituals.
Tanzanite – Tanzanite can be located only in Tanzania. It is most commonly found near Mount Kilimanjaro. Tanzanite is the blue form of zoisite, and it can change colors when it is viewed in different lights and at different angles.

Rainbow Hematite – Rainbow hematite is especially rare, because it can be located in only one mine in the world in Brazil. Generally, it is considered to be a heavy, magnetic stone, and there are some tribes in Brazil who use it for detoxification of the blood.

Larimar – These blue gemstones were only discovered within the last one hundred years. It can only be mined in the Dominican Republic. Due to its delicate nature, larimar that is used in jewelry is considered very delicate, and it must be taken care of properly.