HIMALAYAN KYANITE GEMSTONE
A variety of kyanite, Himalayan Kyanite is also known as the gem from the 'Roof of the World,' to pay homage to its high-altitude origin in Nepal's Himalayan region. Named after the Greek word kyanos, meaning "blue," kyanite gleams a vivid royal blue. This earns it comparisons with the finest Ceylon and Kashmir Sapphire. Kyanite is strongly anisotropic, meaning it has a different hardness depending on the crystal axis direction. Due to this variation in hardness, the mineral was once commonly called disthene, which means "two strengths."
Determining Himalayan Kyanite Value
Is Himalayan Kyanite valuable? The value of Himalayan Kyanite primarily depends on its color. In addition, clarity, cut, and carat weight all factor into the value of a gem. These guidelines will help you choose the perfect stone for your collection.
- Himalayan Kyanite Color
The deep blue of Himalayan Kyanite is reminiscent of a beautiful midnight ocean. It shows uneven shades of blue in a single specimen. These lighter and darker color zones and streaks often present in the center.
- Himalayan Kyanite Clarity
Kyanite can be transparent to translucent. Transparent specimens are more desirable. Almost all kyanite stones exhibit some visible inclusions. Color zoning is often mistaken for internal inclusions. Stones with eye-clean clarity command higher prices.
- Himalayan Kyanite Cut
Due to its color distribution, skilled artisans cut Himalayan Kyanite precisely to get radiant and intense color. Faceted stones must be symmetrical with the correct proportions. Cabochons are also very popular. The gem needs to be cut in the right direction to get the perfect color.
Transparent kyanite is typically faceted, while translucent materials become cabochons. Traditional shapes, such as oval facets and rectangular step cuts, are the most common
Since gem-quality Himalayan kyanite is rare, fancy shapes and calibrated gems demand very high premiums.
- Himalayan Kyanite Carat
Himalayan Kyanite is available in a wide range of sizes. At Shop LC, range from about 20 points to 2.5 carats. However, exceptionally faceted jewels over two carats are rare, due to the challenges in shaping them.
Himalayan Kyanite Treatment
Himalayan Kyanite undergoes no treatment.
Caring for Himalayan Kyanite
Kyanite has a dual hardness on the Mohs scale. With the hardness of 4.5 to 5.5, this crystal is relatively soft when cut parallel to the long axis, while on the shorter side, the hardness is 6 to 7.
Kyanite has poor toughness. The variability of hardness and perfect cleavage means the stone may split with a single hard knock. So, it is best to store kyanite jewelry separately. Wrap jewelry in a soft cloth or place them inside a fabric-lined jewelry box. Remove kyanite jewelry before sports, exercising, or household chores.
The best way to care for your stone is through the standard gem and jewelry care. Clean with a soft-bristled brush, lukewarm soapy water, and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, heat, and harsh chemicals as these can damage the appearance of the gem.
Who Can Wear Himalayan Kyanite?
This classic gemstone adds the royal touch to your styling. Its deep blue flatters all skin types and complements various metal settings, including sterling silver, but also yellow, white, and rose gold. It is best used for earrings and pendants if you wish to wear it daily. For occasional wear, ring and bracelet are good choices.
This stunning gemstone jewelry pairs well with white, orange, yellow, and red. For classic glam, style it with black!
How Does Himalayan Kyanite Compare to Other Stones?
The rich cobalt tones of kyanite make it appear similar to Kashmir Sapphire, often considered the finest sapphire variety. With similar visual properties, experts distinguish Himalayan Kyanite by its dual hardness. While Himalayan Kyanite displays a midnight ocean blue, Kashmir Sapphire shows a classic blue.
Where Does Himalayan Kyanite Come From?
Brazil, Cambodia are primary sources of kyanite. However, stones generally show inconsistent colors. Usually, they display a grayish tone and are not fully transparent. This limits their use as a gemstone.
However, the finds in Nepal of high-quality kyanite have been delivering gemstones of exceptional blue color and transparency.
In 1995, prospectors found Himalayan Kyanite in the Kali Gandaki region of Nepal. Located on the Nepalese plateau, in the kingdom of Mustang, it is one of Earth's highest points. Shop LC sources from this mine.
How is Himalayan Kyanite Mined?
Kyanite occurs in metamorphic rocks from the mountainous terrain of the Himalayan belt. The mine is hard to reach due to the high altitude, rugged-rocky roads, and dense forestation.
Local villagers are the primary miners and commute by motorbike. Otherwise, it takes around two days to walk to the mine. Mining takes place for only about six months per year, as heavy snow falls in the winter.
Excavation of Himalayan Kyanite uses traditional mining techniques, also known as small-scale artisanal mining. It uses simple manual tools, such as shovels, pickaxes, hammers, chisels, and pans. Highly skilled workers are involved in extracting and selecting quality stones.
Himalayan Kyanite Properties
What Does Himalayan Kyanite Mean?
Believers say that Himalayan Kyanite aids with self-expression and communication.
Early legends explain that when suspending kyanite from a hair strand, one could use it as a compass needle. So, many travelers took kyanite along with them on long journeys in new surroundings.
Also, as Himalayan Kyanite is blue, it has a high vibration, believed to create very rapid transfers of energy. It is said to open the body's center for communication. Many use it for deep meditation and is best near the throat chakra.
Gem therapists suggest that this stone encourages creative abilities. Some feel it boosts the health of your mouth, throat, and lungs.
Others think that kyanite can enhance telepathic communication between people, especially if both are using the stone. Sleeping with blue kyanite is said to stimulate lucid dreaming, linking the physical and astral bodies.
Disclaimer: Use of any stone or mineral is not a substitute for professional medical care or treatment, and nothing herein constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information provided should not be used to treat any illness, injury, medical condition, or ailment without prior consultation with a qualified health professional.
Is Himalayan Kyanite a Birthstone?
Kyanite is not an official birthstone or anniversary gemstone. Its royal shade of blue color makes an excellent substitute for the official September birthstone, sapphire, and 5th and 45th anniversary stone.
Himalayan Kyanite Facts
- Himalayan Kyanite is 4 to 5.5 or 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
- It is known for its cobalt blue hue with violet undertones.
- Shop LC sources kyanite directly from the Himalayan belt in Nepal
- Himalayan Kyanite has no treatment.
- This stone is sometimes known as the 'Roof of the World.'