In the realm of blue sapphires, or the neelam stone as they’re popularly known in India, the subtle yet distinct differences between Cornflower Blue and Royal Blue varieties have captivated gemstone enthusiasts for decades. Cornflower Blue Sapphires, reminiscent of the gentle petals of their namesake flower, boast a serene medium to light-toned blue hue with a hint of violet. Sourced from regions like Ceylon/Sri Lanka and Kashmir, these gems radiate tranquillity, making them coveted for their delicate beauty and high transparency. On the other hand, Royal Blue Sapphires, with their deep and velvety blue tones, exude a majestic aura, often associated with wisdom and protection. Mined predominantly in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and Burma (now Myanmar), these Corundum minerals carry a regal resonance, commanding attention with their intense coloration. Although these 2 classes of blue sapphire colours generally occur in smaller carat weights, they command huge value premiums in the market. Whether one is drawn to the soothing elegance of Cornflower Blue or the regal depth of Royal Blue, each sapphire variety unfolds a unique chapter in the enchanting story of colored gemstones.
In this blog, we’ve covered everything you need to know about the difference between Royal Blue and Cornflower Blue Sapphires. These differences are subtle, but important enough for a price-sensitive consumer or a gem connoisseur. Keep reading to gain a deeper understanding of these 2 epitomes of neelam stone colours.
Rough sapphire crystals
1. Geological Origins & Formation
- Cornflower Blue Sapphires: Cornflower Blue Sapphires, akin to nature's delicate artistry, draw their mesmerizing hue from a complex interplay of geological forces. Reminiscent of the gentle petals of the cornflower, these gems derive their coloration from a harmonious combination of iron and titanium impurities. Nestled in the earth's embrace, the notable sources of Cornflower Blue Sapphires include the picturesque locales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), which is also famous for its yellow sapphires or pukhraj stone mines, and the fabled Kashmir mines. Here, the geological intricacies of the terrain, coupled with specific environmental conditions, contribute to the unique and ethereal blue tones that characterize these exquisite gemstones. The presence of iron and titanium becomes a testament to the geological history, each inclusion leaving its mark on the sapphire's canvas, creating a symphony of colors reminiscent of the delicate bloom that inspired their name. The Cornflower Blue sapphire usually occurs in smaller carat weights (usually 3 carats or less), and those that have a larger carat weight, upwards of 5 carats, command a significant value premium.
- Royal Blue Sapphires: In stark contrast, the Royal Blue Sapphires, resplendent in their regal depth, narrate a geological tale rooted in the abundance of titanium. Emerging from the mines of Myanmar, a region steeped in the historical legacy of producing some of the world's most exceptional rubies, Royal Blue gems boast a higher concentration of titanium. Here, within the geological tapestry of Myanmar's mines, the earth weaves a story of intense heat and pressure, shaping these sapphires into treasures of unparalleled richness. The geological forces at play in Myanmar's mines set the stage for the formation of Royal Blue Sapphires, where the higher titanium content becomes the alchemist's touch, transforming the gem into a symbol of majesty and profound beauty. These Royal Blue sapphires also generally occur in smaller carat weights, and larger carat weights command a significant value premium.
2. The Color Spectrum
The Cornflower Blue and the Royal Blue shades of blue sapphire are considered to be among the most coveted in the gemstone world. To understand the differences between these shades, it is important to first be aware of how to study the colour of a gem. In general, there are 3 aspects that you need to consider while studying colour: the hue, the tone, and the saturation. The hue refers to the primary shade of colour such as red, blue, orange, or green. The tone describes the relative lightness or darkness of colour – generally on a scale of Very Light to Very Dark. Finally, the saturation describes the intensity of the hue – and how uniformly it is spread across the body of a gem.
It is also somewhat important to consider the modifier tones in the colour of a gem. A modifier colour is the second or third hue in the original hue of the gem. The blue sapphire shown below, for example, has a blue primary hue, but a violet modifying tone.
A blue sapphire with a violet modifier tone
- Cornflower Blue Sapphires: Cornflower Blue Sapphires, inspired by the gentle bloom of the cornflower, present a harmonious blend of hues that evoke tranquillity and refined elegance. The distinctive hue of these sapphires is characterized by a medium to light blue tone, reminiscent of the clear sky on a serene day. The color profile, attributed to the presence of iron and titanium impurities, weaves a delicate dance with a subtle touch of violet, creating a nuanced and captivating aesthetic. The saturation of Cornflower Blue Sapphires is notably high, infusing the gem with vibrancy without compromising its inherent delicacy. This subtle interplay of hue and saturation, coupled with a transparent clarity, results in a gemstone that embodies the calming essence of nature, making it a coveted choice for those who appreciate the intricate subtleties within the spectrum of blue sapphires.
Cornflower Blue sapphires have a slight violet/purple tone (Image Source: GRS)
- Royal Blue Sapphires: In the realm of gemstones, Royal Blue Sapphires emerge as a pinnacle of opulence, captivating with their profound and velvety richness. The regal hue, stemming from a heightened concentration of titanium, distinguishes these sapphires with an intense and deep blue tone. Unlike their Cornflower Blue counterparts, Royal Blue Sapphires are devoid of subtle violet undertones, presenting a pure and unadulterated blue that exudes a sense of majesty. The saturation of Royal Blue Sapphires reaches exceptional levels, creating a visual experience akin to the luxurious depth of a moonlit night sky. The tone of these gems, characterized by their opulent and regal quality, positions them as a symbol of wealth and splendour within the spectrum of blue sapphires. For those seeking a gemstone that transcends the ordinary, Royal Blue Sapphires stand as a testament to the profound beauty that can be found in the depths of velvety richness.
Royal Blue sapphire have minimal to no modifier colour tones (Image Source: GRS)
| Difference | Cornflower Blue Sapphire | Royal Blue Sapphire |
|---|---|---|
| Hue | Blue | Blue |
| Tone | Light to Medium | Medium to Dark |
| Saturation | Medium to High | Medium to High |
| Modifier Colour | Slight tones of Violet | Vivid Blue/No Modifiers |
Cornflower v. Royal Blue Sapphires - Color Distinctions
3. Rarity & Geological Significance
- Cornflower Blue Sapphires: Cornflower Blue Sapphires, with their delicate and serene hues, stand as elusive treasures in the realm of gemstones. The rarity of these sapphires is intertwined with their geological origins, notably in regions such as Ceylon (Sri Lanka) and the legendary Kashmir mines. The environmental conditions in these locales contribute to the unique coloration of Cornflower Blue Sapphires, making them a rare find for gemstone enthusiasts and collectors. The delicate balance of iron and titanium impurities, combined with specific geological intricacies, renders these gems not only visually captivating but also exceptionally scarce. Although Sri Lankan or Ceylonese Cornflower Blue Sapphires are rare, the ones from Kashmir are much rarer – owing to the fact that the Kashmir mines were depleted over a hundred years ago, which means that there is no new production of Kashmiri blue sapphires, let alone those with a Cornflower blue shade.
- Royal Blue Sapphires: In contrast, the geological significance of Royal Blue Sapphires unveils a narrative of opulence and historical legacy. Mined predominantly in Myanmar, Madagascar, and Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) the mines in these regions have gained renown for producing some of the world's most exceptional sapphires. The abundance of titanium, contributing to the rich and velvety blue tones, establishes these sapphires as geological marvels. While Royal Blue Sapphires may be more readily available than their Cornflower counterparts, the top-quality specimens from these countries' mines remain scarce and highly coveted. The geological significance of these mines, coupled with the historical allure of the region, elevates Royal Blue Sapphire gemstones to a status of profound importance, symbolizing wealth and regality in the world of gemstones.
4. Market Values
In the realm of blue sapphire gemstones, both Cornflower Blue and Royal Blue sapphires are among the most expensive varieties of these gemstones. As such, given their relative rarity and significance, both these shades command a substantial value premium – especially if these specific colours are certified as such by reputable gem labs such as Gübelin, GRS, SSEF, or the GIA. In general, however, a Kashmir blue sapphire that displays a certified Cornflower blue shade, will perhaps fetch the highest value compared to a similar neelam stone from Ceylon (Sri Lanka) or Madagascar. Royal Blue sapphires from Ceylon will come in at a close second place. Of course, the other factors of a gem’s quality, such as its transparency and clarity, carat weight, and cutting style will also have a significant impact on the value of a gem. A neelam stone with a carat weight of 7 carats will command a much higher value premium than one that weighs 3 carats – even if they’re similar in all other aspects of quality. As such, it is always wise to consider the 4Cs as well as a gem’s origin in tandem, instead of in isolation, when evaluating the quality of a gem.
5. Astrological Significance of Blue Sapphires
Blue sapphires, both the Cornflower and the Royal blue shades, with their deep and enchanting hues, hold profound astrological significance, particularly in Vedic astrology. Aligned with the planet Saturn or Shani, these gemstones are believed to harness the energy of this celestial force, bringing balance, discipline, and prosperity to the wearer. Saturn is associated with qualities of wisdom, patience, and discipline. Blue sapphires are often recommended for individuals seeking stability, especially during challenging Saturn transits or "Sade Sati" periods.
In addition to planetary associations, blue sapphires are linked to the zodiac sign Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, as well as Virgo and Aquarius, reinforcing the gem's connection with disciplined energies. This gemstone is believed to enhance mental clarity, focus, and spiritual insight, aligning with the disciplined and practical nature of Capricorn individuals.
Beyond the zodiac, blue sapphires are revered in various cultures for their protective qualities. Believed to shield the wearer from envy and harm, these gemstones are considered potent talismans, especially for those born under Saturn's influence. The astrological journey of the blue sapphire, intertwined with planetary, zodiacal, and protective associations, adds a celestial layer to its allure, making it not only a captivating gemstone but also a symbolic link to the cosmic energies that shape our destinies. It is essential to consult a competent astrologer to determine the carat weight and other characteristics of the neelam stone that is recommended for you as a wearer.
Blue sapphires in Astrology
In conclusion, the exploration of Cornflower Blue and Royal Blue Sapphires goes beyond a mere examination of color variation. It involves a multifaceted journey encompassing geological origins, microscopic analysis, rarity, market value, and astrological symbolism. As gemmologists, our commitment to unravelling the intricacies of these gemstones empowers enthusiasts to make informed choices and fosters a deeper appreciation for the geological wonders that adorn our world. The beauty of Cornflower and Royal Blue Sapphires transcends aesthetics; it is a testament to the geological artistry that has captivated humanity for centuries.
If you’re looking to buy blue sapphire online, we invite you to explore Precious Earth’s collection of these blue gemstones – where you can use our online tool to modify each piece into a sapphire ring or pendant. Each of our blue sapphires comes with its certificate of authenticity, and a lifetime warranty. We stand behind the quality of our products for as long as you have them in your possession.
