Blue Sapphire: Serenity, Depth and Ethical Commitment
The name "sapphire" comes from the Latin sapphirus and the Greek sappheiros, both derived from an ancient Hebrew word meaning "blue stone".
Why is blue sapphire considered a precious gemstone?
Like ruby, blue sapphire belongs to the corundum family. What makes it particularly sought-after is its deep, intense blue color, combined with relative rarity and remarkable hardness (9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale), just below diamond.
Specific characteristics of blue sapphire
Blue sapphires are prized for the depth of their color and their natural transparency. Some sapphires exhibit asterism (a star-shaped effect on the surface), which enhances their beauty and value.
Most prized colors and qualities
The most coveted shade of blue is known as royal blue—deep, saturated, and luminous. This tone is especially associated with sapphires from Kashmir, Burma (Myanmar), and Sri Lanka.
Historical and current countries of origin
The most renowned sapphires historically come from Kashmir, Burma, and Sri Lanka. Today, active mines can also be found in Thailand, Madagascar, Tanzania, and Australia.
Social issues related to sapphire mining
Sapphire mining can lead to issues similar to those associated with ruby extraction:
• Hazardous and poor working conditions.
• Local conflicts and illegal trade.
• Significant environmental degradation.
• Lack of transparency in supply chains.
Lab-grown sapphires: ethical and conscious beauty
Since the early 20th century (around 1902), lab-created sapphires have offered an innovative and ethical alternative. Identical in every way to mined stones in terms of composition and appearance, they are free from the problems associated with mining:
- Full traceability.
- Ethical and transparent origin.
- Consistent and guaranteed visual and physical quality.
Are lab-grown sapphires authentic?
At AGUAdeORO, we say this clearly: lab-grown sapphires are real and authentic. Their only difference lies in how they are formed: not in the earth, but in a controlled, ethical, and planet-friendly environment.
The power of ethical choice
Choosing a lab-grown sapphire means supporting a more humane, transparent, and sustainable jewelry industry.AGUAdeORO embodies this responsible luxury, where beauty, quality, and commitment come together in every creation.
Good to know: Blue Sapphire
• Producing countries: Kashmir, Burma, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Madagascar, Tanzania, Australia.
• Hardness and durability: 9 (very high, ideal for daily wear).
• Stability: Excellent, resistant to chemicals and heat.
• Care: Warm water, mild soap, soft brush.
• Common imitations: Blue glass, synthetic spinels, doublets.
• Responsible alternatives: Ethical lab-grown sapphires.
• Birthstone: September.
• Anniversaries: 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries.
• Personal ideas: Enhances blue or grey eyes, ideal for lovers of deep tones.
Beliefs and facts about blue sapphire
• Symbol of loyalty, fidelity, and purity.
• Considered protective against envy and negative energies.
• Traditionally used to seal promises and long-term commitments.
A concerning reality
In countries like Madagascar or Sri Lanka, sapphire mining has yielded few real benefits for local communities. On the contrary, it has often led to economic dependency, increased child labor, and significant environmental damage.