In dim light a black and blue sapphire can look almost black. Take it outside and daylight pulls the blue out. That is what makes this 15.55 carat neelam interesting, and why you should look at it both ways before you judge it.

It is a natural sapphire in black and blue shades, at a low rate per carat for its size. At this weight it is a big stone, more at home in a bold ring or a pendant than a slim everyday band. Quote reference AG-000769 when you message us on WhatsApp and we will find it straight away.

Hardness decides how you can wear it. Sapphire scores 9 on the Mohs scale, so dust, keys and kitchen counters will not scratch it. A ring worn daily is realistic, provided the setting shields the stone from sharp blows, because hardness is not the same thing as toughness.

Heating is normal for sapphire, so ask us what we know about this stone. If you want independent lab testing, that is your choice. In Vedic astrology neelam is linked with Saturn, and many people consult an astrologer before wearing one.

Caring for your sapphire

Warm water, a drop of mild soap and a soft brush are all it needs. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if you are unsure about the setting, dry it with a soft cloth, and store it apart from other jewellery. Our gemstone care guide has more.

It travels Cash on Delivery, so you check it before paying. Karachi usually 1–2 working days, other cities 2–4, and 7 days to return.

This particular stone

This listing is one natural sapphire, known in Urdu as Neelam, with a weight of 15.55 Carat. Its price is Rs. 26,250 — roughly Rs. 1,688 for each carat. Treatment: treatment not tested. Quote reference AG-000769 when you message us about it. The photographs show this exact stone, so what arrives at your door is the piece you chose on screen.

Above twelve carats you are into collector territory. Pieces this heavy are usually set as pendants or kept loose, and they are prized for the size of rough they came from. If you do set it, choose a bezel or a heavy claw to protect the edges.

On the Mohs scale sapphire rates 9. Few materials will scratch it, so it copes well with everyday ring wear. A soak in warm water with a drop of mild soap and a soft brush keeps it bright; skip the ultrasonic cleaner if inclusions reach the surface.

Whoever you buy sapphire from, make sure of three things: the stone is natural rather than lab-grown, glass or glass-filled; any treatment is stated in writing; and the weight quoted is the weight of the finished stone. We check every sapphire for those three points before it is listed, and because you pay on delivery you can look at the stone — or have it tested — before any money changes hands.

We sell natural stones only and inspect each one before it is listed. Treatment for this stone: Treatment not tested. No lab report yet; independent testing welcome. As general background (not a statement about this stone): Most sapphire on the market is heated to improve colour and clarity; unheated stones exist and cost more. Ask us on WhatsApp and we will tell you what we know about this exact stone; independent lab testing is available on request.

A certificate of authenticity is available on request for this stone, and independent laboratory testing can be arranged. Because you pay on delivery, you can also take the stone to a lab of your choice within the 7-day return window. Read more on our authenticity page.