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All The Different Types of Blue Gemstones

Blue gemstones have long been cherished for their serene beauty and deep symbolism. Whether the shade is as pale as a clear sky or as dark as the depths of the ocean, blue stones bring calm, class, and cool-toned elegance to any piece of jewelry. But with so many shades and types of blue gemstones out there, how do you choose the one that’s right for you?

Let’s explore the most popular types of blue gemstones, their unique characteristics, what they symbolize – and yes, we’ll answer what birthstone is blue, too.

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Introduction to Blue Gemstones

Popular Blue Gemstones and Their Features

Symbolism and Meaning of Blue Gemstones

Caring for Blue Gemstone Jewelry

Blue Gems & Beyond: Find Your Next Stunning Piece at Jewlr

Can't wait? Shop our collection of birthstone jewelry now.

Introduction to Blue Gemstones

Blue gemstones are naturally occurring minerals that range from soft sky tones to rich, vibrant navy. Found around the world, these gems are used in everything from minimalist pendants to dramatic cocktail rings. They’ve been prized for centuries, not just for their stunning blue color, but for their cultural and spiritual meanings.

In ancient Egypt, blue stones like lapis lazuli were believed to connect the wearer to the divine. In the Middle Ages, blue sapphires symbolized loyalty and protection. Today, blue gemstones continue to be a favorite in fine and custom jewelry for their beauty and emotional resonance.

Why Blue Gemstones Are Popular

There’s something about blue that never goes out of style. From soft aquamarine to bold sapphire, blue stones evoke feelings of peace, clarity, and luxury. Even better, they pair effortlessly with all metals – white gold, yellow gold, platinum – and complement both warm and cool skin tones.

Blue is also associated with trust, loyalty, wisdom, and tranquility. That emotional appeal, along with a wide range of available shades and price points, makes blue gemstones a go-to for everything from daily wear to milestone gifts.

Unique Characteristics of Blue Gems

Blue gemstones come in all kinds of varieties (think crystals, minerals, and precious stones) with varying levels of clarity, transparency, and hardness. Many resemble the sky or sea, which adds a symbolic connection to nature and infinity. What makes each stone special comes down to a few key traits:

  • Clarity affects how much light passes through the stone. The higher the clarity, the better light passes through, helping to enhance the stone’s brilliance.

  • Cut influences brilliance and how the stone reflects light.

  • Hardness determines how well it resists scratching and wear. The stronger the stone, the more durable it will be during wear.

  • Hue ranges from light blue and teal to deep navy or violet-blue.

These factors, along with rarity, contribute to a gemstone’s beauty and value.

Wondering which birthstones are blue? Well, there’s two! Sapphire is the birthstone for September, while aquamarine celebrates those born in March. 

Learn more about the different birthstones (and find yours!) in this guide.

Sapphire

One of the most famous and desirable blue gemstones, sapphires are known for their durability (a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale), deep blue color, and royal history. They’re often chosen for engagement rings thanks to their timeless style and strength.

Shop Blue Sapphire Jewelry

Aquamarine

With a cool, blue-green hue that mimics the ocean, aquamarine is a favorite for those craving something light and refreshing. It’s also the March birthstone and is commonly used in custom jewelry for its soft sparkle and calming vibe.

Shop Aquamarine Jewelry

Blue Topaz

Blue topaz ranges from sky blue to deep London blue and is often used as a more affordable alternative to sapphires or aquamarines. With great clarity and a clean look, it’s perfect for modern, eye-catching pieces. 

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Tanzanite

This rare gemstone, found only in Tanzania, offers a mesmerizing mix of blue and violet hues. It’s a more recent discovery and quickly became a favorite for statement jewelry. Tanzanite’s unique color and limited supply make it a luxurious, sought-after option.

Lapis Lazuli

A stone with serious history, lapis lazuli has been used for over 6,500 years in ancient jewelry, royal ornaments, and art. It has a rich ultramarine blue tone often flecked with pyrite (fool’s gold), adding sparkle and depth. Though opaque, it has bold character and spiritual appeal.

Kyanite

Less well-known but completely captivating, kyanite has a silky, streaked blue appearance. Its unique texture and slightly lower hardness make it perfect for artisan and boho-style designs. It’s a gem for those who want something a little unexpected.

Meaning and Symbolism of Blue Gemstones

Gemstones have long been believed to carry symbolic and spiritual meaning. Blue stones, in particular, are associated with emotions, the mind, and expression.

Calm and Serenity

Blue gemstones are often connected to the calming forces of water and the expansive peace of the sky. Wearing them is believed to promote emotional balance, reduce stress, and encourage a sense of tranquility.

Communication and Truth

Blue is also the color of the throat chakra, which governs communication and truth. Many believe that wearing blue stones like sapphire, aquamarine, or kyanite can help open the lines of honest expression and self-awareness.

Discover more about the meaning and symbolism behind your favorite gemstones.

Caring for Blue Gemstone Jewelry

Blue gemstones vary in durability, so it’s important to give them proper care.

Cleaning Tips

Use a soft cloth and lukewarm water with a gentle soap to clean your jewelry. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals – especially with stones like lapis lazuli and kyanite, which are more fragile and delicate.

Storage Recommendations

Store each piece separately to avoid scratches. Use soft-lined jewelry boxes or pouches, and keep gemstones away from extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, which can alter the color or clarity of your precious gem over time.

Blue Gems & Beyond: Find Your Next Stunning Piece at Jewlr

Whether you’re looking for a timeless sapphire engagement ring or a unique aquamarine pendant, there’s no shortage of stunning blue gemstones to explore. These stones aren’t just beautiful – they carry centuries of meaning and personality.

Want to make your gemstone pick even more personal? Explore our full collection of birthstone rings, birthstone necklaces, and birthstone bracelets to create something truly your own.

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