
gemstone
Blue gemstone, likely tumbled sapphire or blue spinel
Corundum (Al₂O₃) if sapphire; alternatively spinel (MgAl₂O₄)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectSmall polished blue translucent specimen with vitreous luster; sapphire hardness Mohs 9, spinel 8, specific gravity about 4.0 or 3.6, respectively. The image is insufficient to determine crystal structure or cleavage confidently.
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Physical properties
Small polished blue translucent specimen with vitreous luster; sapphire hardness Mohs 9, spinel 8, specific gravity about 4.0 or 3.6, respectively. The image is insufficient to determine crystal structure or cleavage confidently.
Formation & geological history
Blue sapphire forms in aluminum-rich metamorphic rocks or igneous deposits, while blue spinel forms in metamorphosed carbonate rocks; both are geologically ancient and commonly concentrated in alluvial gravels.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry and as a collector specimen; corundum also has major industrial abrasive applications.
Geological facts
Blue color commonly comes from iron and titanium in sapphire or iron/cobalt in spinel. A refractive-index, hardness, or laboratory gem test is needed for reliable identification.
Field identification & locations
Common sources include Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Madagascar, Tanzania, and Vietnam. Check for natural inclusions, test streak and hardness only cautiously, and distinguish from blue glass or synthetic material.
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