Neelam
Blue Sapphire, the gemstone of Shani
Neelam is the gemstone of Shani, or Saturn, and has the strongest reputation of any Navratna stone. Kashmir material is the most celebrated and is now effectively a collector market. Ceylon sapphires from Sri Lanka supply most fine Neelam sold today, in tones running from cornflower to deep royal blue.
In Vedic tradition Neelam is worn to steady Saturn, and is associated with discipline, focus and steady progress at work.
The stone itself
- Planet
- Saturn / Shani
- Rashi
- Capricorn / Aquarius
- Hardness
- 9.0 Mohs
- Colour
- Royal Velvety Blue
- Usual cut
- Oval or Cushion Cut
- Classic origin
- Kashmir and Sri Lanka
What to check before you pay
Because Neelam carries such a strong reputation, it also attracts the most substitution. Iolite, blue spinel, tanzanite and glass filled corundum are all sold as Neelam. Ask for a report that identifies the species as natural corundum and states the treatment. Traditional practice is to wear Neelam on trial before committing to it.
Traditional wearing guidance
As practised in Vedic tradition. Your astrologer’s instruction takes precedence over any general rule.
- Metal
- Silver or panchdhatu
- Finger
- Middle finger
- Day
- Saturday, in the evening
