Stone
Sapphire
Sapphire, gem-quality corundum other than red; blue is its best-known colour.
Also known as: safir · sapphire
Sapphire is gem-quality corundum other than red; blue is its best-known colour. It has a long history in images of royalty, religious authority and fidelity.
Its physical identity is distinct from spiritual interpretation. Blue sapphire is associated with wisdom, truth and inner discipline. These correspondences are symbolic uses in modern crystal culture, not measured mineral effects.
Lukewarm soapy water and a soft cloth suit general care; avoid impact, thermal shock and harsh chemicals. Spiritual interpretations belong to belief and personal experience; they do not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Mineral dust must not be inhaled during cutting or grinding.
Sources: GIA Gem Encyclopedia, Mindat mineral database, Metropolitan Museum gem history.
Properties
- Mohs hardness
- 9
- Primary color
- blue and fancy colours
- Mineral family
- corundum