How to Energize Blue Sapphire (Neelam)

Blue Sapphire carries the energy of Saturn (Shani), so it awakens best when you energize it in tune with that planet. Choose the planet's own day, the right lunar fortnight, and a quiet hour, and the stone connects with you far more strongly.

• Day: Saturday.
• Paksha (lunar fortnight): Krishna Paksha (waning moon).
• Time: Evening, after sunset. If you happen to know the planetary hour (hora) of Saturn, choosing it is even better.
• Keep ready: the Blue Sapphire set in silver, panchdhatu or iron, a clean copper or steel bowl, raw cow's milk and Gangajal, a ghee lamp (diya), incense, a few fresh flowers, and a mala to count on.

1. 1Place the Blue Sapphire in the bowl and cover it fully with raw cow's milk and Gangajal.
2. 2Let it rest for a few hours. Many people leave it soaking overnight so it settles through the quiet hours before dawn.
3. 3This gently washes away any dull or heavy energy the stone may have gathered while it was mined, cut and handled.
4. 4Lift it out, rinse it with clean water (a final splash of Gangajal is lovely), and pat it dry with a soft, fresh cloth.

1. 1Spread a clean cloth on a low table or your altar and place your chosen deity, or a picture of them, upon it.
2. 2Light the ghee lamp and the incense, and offer a few fresh flowers.
3. 3Rest the purified Blue Sapphire in front of the lamp so its light falls softly on the stone.
4. 4Sit comfortably facing east or north, with your back straight.

This is the heart of the ritual. You are inviting the living energy of Saturn to settle into the stone. Take a few slow breaths, look at the Blue Sapphire, and quietly hold in mind why you want to wear it.

Now chant the beej (seed) mantra of Saturn with full attention. One full mala, 108 repetitions, is the least you should do to energize it. Chant more if you have the time and the devotion.

1. 1Wear the Blue Sapphire the same Saturday, right after the ritual, while the energy is still fresh.
2. 2It is usually worn on the middle finger of the right (working) hand.
3. 3Touch it first to the feet of your deity, or an elder you respect, then to your eyes, before you slip it on.
4. 4Quietly promise yourself to keep it clean and to treat it with care.

• Take it off for anything that could badly soil or knock the stone, and keep harsh chemicals away from it.
• Wipe it clean now and then. If it has been off for a long while or feels dull, you can re-energize it briefly on the planet’s day.
• Always trial a Neelam first. Wear it for three to seven days and watch for good or bad signs, in your dreams, mood and daily events, before you commit.
• If it brings misfortune, restlessness or bad dreams during the trial, do not wear it, and take it off at once.
• Never wear Blue Sapphire without checking your chart, as an unsuitable Saturn stone can act against you quickly.

Blue Sapphire suits those with a benefic Saturn who need its strength, but only after careful chart analysis. It is never worn casually.

• Linked with sudden progress, discipline and focus
• Traditionally supports relief during Sade Sati and Shani dasha
• Connected to justice, perseverance and career stability
• Said to protect, and to reward honest, hard work