Kyanite derives its name from the Greek word kyanos, which means blue. The most highly prized Kyanite gemstones are a vibrant blue or blue-green color, reminiscent of azure blue spring skies or cerulean blue summer seas. The beautiful range of blue and blue-green that Kyanite beads and briolettes come in make them a perfect choice for the beading projects of the season.

Good quality blue kyanite can resemble a gorgeous blue sapphire, but this is where the similarity ends. Kyanite is peculiar because the gemstone exhibits different degrees of hardness along the long axis and across the long axis. On the Moh's Scale of Hardness, Kyanite measures a hardness of 5 along the long axis and 7 across the long axis. To make a comparison, sapphire has a hardness of 9 on the Moh's Scale. Kyanite's easy to wear colors, unlike its sapphire counterparts are extremely affordable.

Kyanite was discovered during the nineteenth century in mountainous mining regions. During the nineteenth century it was believed that kyanite suspended from a human hair would follow the Earth's magnetic force like a needle on a compass. Some early travelers even took kyanite along with them while traveling in unfamiliar territory. Today Kyanite is mined in the United States, in Montana and North Carolina and in Switzerland, Brazil and Nepal. The best quality kyanite comes for the Kali Gandaki region of West Central Nepal.

Kyanite is also believed to possess certain metaphysical properties. The fan like clusters or blades that are formed by kyanite make it an ideal stone for restoring energy balance. It helps to quiet the mind, dissolves emotional, mental, or spiritual confusion, and the letting go of anxiety. The belief is that there are two gems that do not retain negative energy and never need cleansing and kyanite is one of them, the other gemstone that does not need cleansing is citrine. With its ability to keep the mind calm, the powerful blue hues of kyanite have long been thought to inspire calmness, composure, serenity, loyalty and respect.

Spring evokes a sense of new beginnings, renewal and blossoming flowers. Bright and lively colors inspire us to breakout of the winter doldrums while sophisticated and grounded colors speak to the need for stability in times of economic uncertainty. Kyanite is both bright and grounded and works well for all skin tones. Beadworks is pleased to offer a range of kyanite beads and briolettes for your spring beading projects.

Sources:
Gems: A Lively Guide of the Casual Collector, by David J. Dennis Jr., © 1999 Harry N. Abrams, Inc., Publishers.
Gemstones, by Cally Hall, © 2002 Dorling Kindersley Limited, London