Rare Gems: Kashmir Sapphires

When one thinks of fine sapphires, two countries immediately come to mind - Sri Lanka, and Burma. But did you know that once upon a time Kashmir produced some of the most precious sapphires in the world? 

Kashmir sapphires were discovered by chance after an avalanche in the Zanskar region of the Himalayas in 1881. 

The avalanche exposed a large untouched area of terrain, including a pegmatitic rock filled with fine sapphires - some were even upto five inches in size!

Most of the largest and finest sapphires were mined between 1882-87 and are now referred to as from the "old mine." Post that the deposits were depleted and there was a lull in mining.

Though the government and private companies tried to revive mining in the region between 1910 - 1970s, there was limited success - due in part to the harsh environmental conditions, and in part to the precarious political conditions. 

Hence, severe supply limitations have made Kashmir sapphires some of the most sought after in the world. What makes them unique is their velvet blue color - though very rich in pigment, they have an inherent sleepy quality. They glow blue under a light, vs. other sapphires which have a more purple or grey tint.

Moreover, amongst those who believe in the spiritual and astrological powers of stones, Kashmir sapphires are known to symbolize the third eye chakra, which protects against negativity and strengthens intuition.