The name sapphire derives from the Greek "sappheiros," meaning "blue," which was originally associated with lapis lazuli. The confusion was made by the ancient Greeks. It turns out that the discovery of sapphire as corundum was made over millennia by different cultures and civilizations.
Black sapphire forms in aluminum-rich igneous rocks and in areas rich in minerals and organic matter. Over millions of years, crystallization processes under high temperature and pressure lead to the formation of corundum crystals, some of which become black sapphires.
In fact, inclusions, impurities, or defects in the crystal structure of this gemstone are responsible for the color of black sapphire. Thus, mineral particles such as rutile or trapped gas bubbles can absorb certain wavelengths of light, creating the characteristic dark hue of black sapphire.
These inclusions can also influence other optical properties of black sapphire, such as light scattering and chatoyancy. This gemstone is primarily composed of aluminum oxide, which gives it strength and scratch resistance.
It has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it extremely durable and suitable for everyday use. For comparison, diamond has a hardness of 10, the highest on the same scale.
The crystal system of black sapphire is trigonal, meaning that its crystals have a structure with 3 axes of symmetry, including a principal axis perpendicular to a horizontal plane. This mineral also exhibits a submetallic to vitreous luster.
In Greek and Roman mythology, the black sapphire represents deities such as Saturn and Hecate. Saturn is the god of time in Roman mythology. He presides over the period leading up to the winter solstice. Hecate is a goddess in Greek mythology, capable of both good and evil. She is associated with witchcraft, magic, and the moon.
In Asian cultures, black sapphire is mentioned in the accounts of travelers and explorers searching for this incredible stone. In India, this stone is associated with Sahni, the Hindu deity of Saturn, and is considered a sacred stone.
The main deposits are located in India, China, Sri Lanka, Australia, Burma, the United States and Thailand.
Black sapphire is often associated with reducing mental agitation, particularly by helping to calm the incessant flow of thoughts. It allows its wearer to find greater relaxation and stop incessant reflections. This stone helps to find a state of inner serenity, conducive to meditation and deep relaxation, while promoting reconnection with oneself and the resolution of certain emotional blockages.
It is also beneficial during emotional fluctuations, acting as a stabilizer. It helps maintain emotional balance, reducing mood swings and providing mental clarity needed to make important decisions.
Black sapphire is also known for its role in protecting against negative external influences, creating a psychic barrier against unwanted energies. It strengthens the ability to cope with life's challenges and respond appropriately to obstacles encountered.
Finally, this stone is known to open the mind to new ideas and perspectives, promoting personal growth and spiritual development, and thus facilitating the path to deeper inner well-being.
Black sapphire bracelet India A (6.5-7.5mm balls)Vendor:Black sapphire bracelet India A (6.5-7.5mm balls)La Boite à Cailloux
