Alternative Names: Blue Corundum
Origin: Notably India
Mineral Species: Corundum
Mineral Group: Oxides
Chemical Formula: Al2O3
Hardness: 9
Crystal System: Trigonal
Colour: Pale to dark blue, normally opaque; gem-grade crystals translucent; also occurs in clear, pink, yellow, grey, golden-brown and violet
Typical Appearance: Usually as elongated hexagonal crystals within a mica schist, typically Fuchsite.
Birthstone: Aquarius, Virgo & Libra
Chakra Alignment: Throat, Third Eye and Crown (other alignments according to colour variation)
Element: Air
Origin of Name & Mythology: Named "corinvindum" in 1725 by John Woodward and derived from the Sanskrit, kuruvinda ("Ruby"). Richard Kirwan used the current spelling "corundum" in 1794. Known by many names in ancient times: adamant, sapphire, ruby, hyacinthos, asteria, etc. The name sapphire derives from the Latin sapphirus, meaning "dear to Saturn". Referrences to sapphire date back at least to the 2nd century BC, but there is some confusion as to whether the earliest texts actually mean sapphire or lapis lazuli. Traditions regarding sapphire apply only to blue corundum, as other colours were not known until the 19th century, although the Indian vedic traditions refer to yellow sapphire, which was treated as an entirely different stone from the blue. De Lapidus, attributed to 2nd century BC Greek historian Damigeron, discusses the virtues of sapphire, saying it is worn by kings and is a great protector, before describing its usefulness in treating tumours, eye conditions and fevers. Again, this may have been referring to lapis lazuli. In the 12th century, Hildegard von Bingen recommends it for treating diseases of the eye, cooling fever, releasing anger, relieving depression, and gaining knowledge and understanding, as well as calming unwanted ardour and lust. In the same century, the Marbidos Bishop of Rennes calls it sacred and the gem of gems, and says that it can be used to hear and understand the obscurest oracles. Around this time sapphire was adopted as the stone of choice in ecclesiastical rings. Later authors, such as the 16th century Italian physician Camillus Leonardus, repeat much of the earlier knowledge. Bartolomaeus Anglicus, writing in 1495, mentions its use in clearing poison, which appears to have come from an older text, but I have been unable to locate the source.
All corundums possess a divine vibration, the highest of all belonging to blue sapphire. Looking into or meditating with blue sapphire is like looking at a twilit sky, as the stars emerge, before it goes completely dark. It draws our attention upwards to the heavens, and motivates a desire for understanding and connection. It is traditionally aligned with the element air, but I also find that at times it resembles looking into a deep, still pool as it reflects the stars above, and so additionally aligns with water and promotes deep inner reflection. Blue sapphire brings profound tranquillity, and is generally calming, allowing us to release anger and stand back with detachment from conflict. It can be used to balance sleep patterns, and also acts as an antidepressant. Blue sapphire is a stone of wisdom, knowledge and clear thinking, as well as clear vision (both physically and metaphorically), so may be useful for those who are studying, or wish to further their understanding, including understanding of higher energies. Its alignment with air means it is intellectual rather than emotional, cutting to the chase and seeing through to the core of the matter.
Physically, it aids healing on all levels, and is particularly good for eye complaints, infection and fever, and was used in the Middle Ages to treat gout and kidney disease. Sapphire surrounds us with a divine shield of blue light, bestowing gentle protection, and can induce a deep state of meditation, helping us to connect with Source, while it strengthens our connection and communication with the angelic realm and with our guides, and supports and promotes oracular gifts. Star sapphire bestows added blessings, optimism and protection to the wearer.
