Vivid Blue Sapphire vs Premium Neelam: What to Buy?

Out of all high-grade gemstones, the blue sapphire has few rivals regarding its beauty, charm, and even astrological significance. In Vedic astrology, it is referred to as Neelam and is associated with the planets Saturn and Shani. It is cherished for its ability to transform energy. You may purchase a sapphire due to its aesthetic appeal or buy it for spiritual reasons. In both cases, two versions are often referenced: the vivid blue sapphire and the premium Neelam. Which one should you choose? What factors truly set them apart?

Let’s analyze the differences between them in terms of color quality, clarity, origin, astrological benefits, and, of course, the price of blue sapphire.

Vivid Blue Sapphire Overview

Vivid blue sapphires have intense, saturated, and bright hues. Within jewelry circles and the gemstone market, this type of sapphire is highly valued. Most vivid blue sapphires are from Ceylon, which is Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Burma, where vividly colored gemstones are produced owing to their luster.

Those looking for breathtaking rings, necklaces, and bracelets would particularly love sapphires due to their vivid blue colors. They go well with both gold and platinum, as their colors pop in contrast to these metals.

What is a Premium Neelam?

Premium Neelam sapphires are blue sapphires that have been carefully selected for their astrological effectiveness and beauty. Although ‘vivid blue sapphire’ is gemological terminology, the term ‘Neelam,’ commonly used in the Indian subcontinent, indicates a blue sapphire selected for Vedic astrology purposes.

To keep its metaphysical attributes, a premium Neelam gemstone is usually unheated, untreated, and unsorted. These stones are usually acquired from reputable Kashmiri and Sri Lankan (Ceylon) mines, alongside Burmese ones. When sought after the right way, a premium Neelam is known to amplify one’s financial discipline and clarity of thought and provide financial stability.

Evaluating Color & Clarity

When evaluating a vivid blue sapphire alongside its counterpart, the premium Neelam, the distinction in color is a primary differentiating factor. The faint version has a lower-intensity hue and a more vivid sparkle, which makes sapphires more appealing for jewelry. Premium Neelam stones, however, are often selected more for their purity, clarity, and natural features, which strengthen their astrological significance, even though they may lack the bright hues of the vivid stones.

With regard to clarity, both extremes can be flawless or contain some form of natural cosmetic damage. Premium Neelams tend to be chosen with greater care for inclusions because the absence of openings is necessary to ensure unimpeded positive vibrations. On the other hand, vivid blue sapphires can be more forgiving regarding inclusions as long as the color is striking.

Considering the Price of Blue Sapphire

Pricing or cost is one of the primary deciding factors when it comes to sapphire stone selection. The price can change drastically based on their place of origin, the treatments they go through, clarity, and the carat weight they possess.

In the jewelry market, vivid blue sapphires draw newer buyers due to their appealing color. Naturally, these are usually in higher demand compared to other stones. Their price can start around a few hundred dollars per carat, due to their powerful visual allure, while those with exceptional clarity and cut from places like Burma and Ceylon can reach thousands of dollars.

Premium Neelam Stones: The price of gems is always high, but the value here is more related to the stone's purity, its treatment history, and where it originated. Untreated, unheated Neelams from Kashmir or Sri Lanka tend to be astrological, along with certification. When endowed, these stones become even more expensive.

To summarize, if appearance and aesthetic qualities are more important to you, then vivid blue sapphire is the gem you are looking for. Investing in a premium Neelam is advisable if you are buying for planetary alignment and mystic astrology symbols.

Where to Buy Original Neelam and Vivid Blue Sapphire?

Authenticity should be your priority, whether you want to buy original Neelam stones or a vivid blue sapphire. Always buy from established vendors who show clear gemstone certification, lab reports, and are clear with the treatment and origin of the stone.

Reputed and trustworthy jewelers and Navratan websites usually have a comprehensive collection of ornamental or astrological pieces. These dealers are GIA-certified.

Final Verdict

Should I purchase a vivid blue sapphire or a premium Neelam? The intent with which you wish to buy the gem is what would guide you towards your answer. If you’re hoping for the power of astrological benefits or energy alignment along with spiritual growth, premium Neelam is the stone for you. If the stone is meant to be a dazzling compliment to jewelry design, style, or adorn - a vivid blue sapphire becomes your best option.

Regardless of which path you choose, it is a good idea to seek a professional’s consultation before purchasing a certified stone, including “Neelam” sapphires, and to check the blue sapphire price against your expectations.