Blue Gemstones - The Definitive Guide (2025)

THE BASICS--

Blue gemstones can be stunning in all types of engagement rings and jewelry, but just why do we love blue stones so much? Whether you're marking a birthday, an anniversary, or any significant moment, the allure of a blue gemstone is undeniably captivating. This popular color is seen in many lovely gems, making it suitable for any occasion and a wide range of fashion preferences.

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• Shades of Blue
• Unique Blue Hues and Their Stunning Hues
• 5 Most Popular Blue Gemstones
• Sapphire
• Aquamarine
• Turquoise
• Blue Zircon
• Opal
• Blue Symbolism
• Meanings & Symbolism
• Birthstones
• Famous Blue Gemstones
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What Blue Gems Will You Wear?

Shades of Blue

Despite being a relatively rare color in nature — reds, browns, greens, and yellows are much more common — blue comes in an entire spectrum of brilliance, from the lightest sky blue and gentle baby blue to bright azure and ultramarine to dark navy or midnight blue. This broad gradient includes shades such as cornflower, cobalt, turquoise, denim, cyan, indigo, cerulean, and much more.

Some shades of blue are named for their geography, such as Prussian, Persian, or Pacific blue, while others are named for sports teams or other affiliations, such as Air Force, Carolina, Dodger, or Tiffany blue.

Blue is a generally cool color and may have green, purple, or grayish undertones that give even more distinction to particular shades. With such great variety in the overall color, there can be beautiful blue gemstones to suit anyone’s jewelry preferences.

Unique Blue Gemstones and Their Stunning Hues

The most popular blue gemstone is sapphire, the September birthstone admired for its rich, royal hues, but other stunning blue gems like aquamarine, turquoise, tanzanite, and blue topaz also captivate with their unique shades.

• Sapphire: Known for its deep royal blue and as the most popular blue gemstone.
• Aquamarine: Features lighter, watery blue shades.
• Blue Diamond: Offers fiery sparkle and a unique blue hue.
• Turquoise: Known for its vibrant blue-green luster.
• Tanzanite: Recognized for its purple-blue hues.
• Blue Topaz: Prized for its clarity and extra glitter.
• Other Gems: Moonstone, opal, pearls, spinel, and zircon also feature stunning blue shades.

While some blue gemstones are rarer than others, each one offers a stunning option for unique and beautiful blue jewelry.

 

5 Most Popular Blue Gemstones

Sapphire

Renowned for its stunning beauty and durability, sapphire is a highly prized gemstone available in a variety of colors, with blue being the most iconic.

• Symbolism: Sapphires are often used in engagement rings as symbols of loyalty, faithfulness, and sincerity.
• Enduring Quality: Their lasting strength reflects the commitment of a long-lasting relationship, making them a timeless choice for meaningful jewelry.
• Blue: The most iconic sapphire color, ranging from light sky blue to deep, rich royal blue. This hue is prized for its vivid saturation and brilliance, often enhanced by precise cutting to showcase the gemstone's natural luster.

 

Aquamarine

Known for its stunning blue to blue-green hues, aquamarine is a captivating gemstone that evokes the tranquility of the sea.

• Durability: With a Mohs hardness of 7.5 to 8, aquamarine is durable enough for everyday wear while maintaining its brilliant clarity and sparkle.
• Symbolism: Highly valued for its serene and calming properties, aquamarine symbolizes courage and inner strength.
• Versatility: A popular choice for engagement rings and various other jewelry pieces, its beauty and meaning make it a timeless favorite.

 

Turquoise

A vibrant gemstone celebrated for its bold and captivating color, offering a natural and eye-catching beauty that has been cherished for centuries.

• Color: Striking blue to blue-green hues, often interspersed with intricate veining patterns.
• Mineral Inclusions: Veining patterns may include minerals like pyrite or limonite, adding character and uniqueness.
• Appearance: Vibrant and distinctive, making it a standout choice for jewelry.

“My experience with Vintage Diamond Ring was so excellent I really had to think about it for a while. First their selection of jewelry is profound. The quality is superior.”

—Claude P verified buyer

Blue Zircon

A captivating gemstone prized for its brilliant blue color and exceptional fire, often rivaling that of diamonds.

• Color and Fire: Known for its vivid blue hue and sparkling brilliance.
• Durability: With a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, it is relatively durable but requires careful handling to avoid scratches.
• Symbolism: Believed to promote wisdom, honor, and spiritual growth.
• Versatility: A popular choice for those seeking a meaningful and beautiful stone for jewelry.

Opal 

A mesmerizing gemstone renowned for its unique play-of-color, showcasing a spectrum of vibrant hues that seem to dance across its surface.

• Play-of-Color: Displays a captivating range of colors caused by the diffraction of light.
• Unique Structure: The gemstone's internal structure consists of microscopic silica spheres, creating its distinctive optical effect.
• Blue Hues: Opals can exhibit blue tones as part of their unique play-of-color, adding to their allure and individuality.

Blue Symbolism

But why do we love blue so much? The answer may vary depending on one's culture, faith, and personal preferences.

• Meaning & Symbolism

The color blue has a wide range of symbolic meanings. In general, blue is considered a calming, peaceful, relaxing shade. It is often associated with conservatism and steadfastness, as well as loyalty and integrity. Deeper blue shades evoke authority, while lighter shades have a delicateness that can symbolize fragility. Hope, healing, determination, grace, and emotional depth are all symbolic meanings connected to the color blue. In some cultures, blue is a sacred color associated with paradise, and can be protective against the evil eye.

Official symbolism of the color blue is likewise widespread. More than 50 percent of the national flags in the world feature at least some blue in their design, and blue is a popular color for sports teams, corporate logos, and schools. 

• Birthstones

Certain blue gemstones are also official birthstones - sapphire is the September birthstone, aquamarine is the March birthstone, and five blue gems — blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, turquoise, and lapis lazuli – have been named as December birthstones. Different blue gems are also official wedding anniversary gemstones – blue topaz for the fourth anniversary, sapphire for the fifth, and lapis lazuli for the ninth. Even more blue gems are connected to higher anniversary years: aquamarine (19), iolite (21), spinel (22), tanzanite (24), sapphire (45), and sapphire again (65).

With so much symbolism, there are many reasons to choose a blue gemstone, no matter what you may want it to represent.

“I've purchased two vintage rings from Suzanne over the past decade and my wife has loved both. Great service, communication and speedy delivery.”

—Lee S verified buyer

Famous Blue Gemstones

Another part of the allure of blue gemstones is their popularity in royal, historical, and celebrity circles. Different stunning blue jewels have featured prominently in some of the most famous jewelry pieces of all time.

One of the most famous blue gems today is the oval sapphire and diamond ring first presented to Princess Diana and now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales, since her engagement to Prince William in 2010. The sapphire itself is a glorious, 12-carat stone, surrounded by 14 diamonds.

Other notable examples of famous blue gemstones include:

• Princess Diana's Aquamarine Ring: Worn by Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, to her wedding reception in 2018, this ring showcases a stunning emerald-cut aquamarine stone and holds deep personal significance.
• Marie Louise Diadem: This remarkable piece features 79 Persian turquoise stones. Once belonging to Marie Louise of Austria, the second wife of Emperor Napoleon of France, the diadem frames its cabochon turquoise stones with intricate scrollwork and floral filigree motifs.

These examples highlight the timeless appeal and elegance of blue gemstones, celebrated in royal and celebrity circles throughout history.

“Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."
— Chloe G verified buyer

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular blue gemstones?

The most popular blue gemstones include sapphire, aquamarine, blue topaz, turquoise, blue zircon, and opal, each known for its unique shade and appeal. These gemstones are favored in jewelry for their stunning blue hues and distinctive qualities, ranging from the deep, rich blue of sapphire to the light, oceanic blue of aquamarine.

What do blue gemstones symbolize?

Blue gemstones typically symbolize tranquility, wisdom, and truth, reflecting qualities like calmness, peace, and clarity of thought. They are often associated with trust, loyalty, and spiritual insight, making them popular choices for meaningful jewelry pieces.

Are blue gemstones suitable for everyday wear?

Yes, many blue gemstones are suitable for everyday wear, particularly those with higher hardness ratings like sapphires, aquamarine, and blue zircon, which resist scratches and damage. However, softer stones like turquoise and tanzanite require more care and protection from impact to maintain their appearance over time.

What Blue Gems Will You Wear?

These are just a few of the most famous blue gemstones in history; many more adorn the wrists, fingers, and necklines of celebrities, royalty, and those special people who just love the rich and variable color. What blue gems will you wear? Explore our collection today and find the perfect piece to add to your jewelry collection!

 

 

Antique Engagement Rings For Everyone:

No matter which gemstone is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.

Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:

Vintage rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and design. If you're looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of Blue Gemstones today. 

Suzanne Sachs

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