Sapphire, the most recognized September birthstone represents wisdom, virtue, and good fortune. Some say it is also aligned with faithfulness and sincerity. Known for its color, blue Sapphire does come in many hues.

Sapphire is in the corundum family, which also includes ruby.  When a lot of people think of Sapphire, they think of the color blue, though Sapphire does come in many hues.

Did you know… One of the key facts about Sapphire is that it is just as hard as a diamond? Sapphire comes in a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale, which just measures the hardness of minerals.  It has hexagonal crystals and is one of the most precious and valued birthstones.

There are some Sapphires that are called Star Sapphires, meaning that they have in them rutile particles that are nicknamed “silk.”  These particles basically throw off light in a way that looks like a six-pointed star. Should you look directly into it, it can be blinding and radiant. Like a diamond!

Origins of Sapphire

In addition to being the most recognized September birthstone, sapphires have a history as rich as their deep blue color. The best sapphires are currently found in Australia, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar, although they are also sourced from Myanmar, India, China, Thailand, and the USA.

• To this day, sapphires are still popular among royals. There is a famous sapphire called the St. Edward’s Sapphire which forms part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom. This particular sapphire stone was worn by Edward the Confessor in his ring.
• Ancient Greeks wore these stones to talk to an oracle, who was basically a wise fortune teller.
• This is a gem that has been around since ancient times and has been used throughout history as royal ornaments by medieval kings or as talismans worn by priests.
• Some people belive that the tablets that the Ten Commandments were carved in were sapphire.

In addition, sapphires are worn by many others who appreciate the unrivaled beauty of this precious blue stone and they can often be found in romantic engagement and eternity rings.

Legend and Lore

The sapphire is said to bring about inner peace and calm to its wearer. This is duly important in our day and age of stress and anxiety. It is also thought to increase one’s focus and clarity. In terms of physical healing powers, sapphires are believed to reduce inflammation, treat high temperatures or fevers along with nosebleeds and joint problems too. Gifting yourself a sapphire is the perfect remedy to getting sick!

It is also believed that the sapphire is a stone of protection and symbolizes purity, truth, and faithfulness. Sapphires also symbolize heaven. In medieval times, priests believed that wearing sapphires would protect them against temptation and evil or impure thoughts.

Ancient warriors also gave sapphire necklaces to their wives in a bid to ensure they remained faithful while they were apart from each other. Sapphires were thought to darken in color if worn by someone who was untrustworthy or if they had committed adultery. How handy is that!

Cost and Value

Because sapphires are classed as precious gems, they can be quite expensive to buy. Sapphires are graded on the origin, color, clarity, size, and cut of each stone – just like diamonds. Sapphires that are a deep rich blue are considered the most valuable along with those that are tinged with violet and purple. Sapphires with hints of green or gray are not as sought after, especially because gray hues can negatively affect the clarity of a sapphire.

Contact Gittelson Jewelers

Are you seeking a Sapphire September Birthstone for yourself or someone else? Our family-owned business in the heart of downtown Minneapolis can help you source the perfect gemstone for your fine piece of jewelry. Or you can come in with your vision drawn out on paper, a napkin wherever your desires get scribbled down. We’ll CAD model it and custom design the perfect birthstone jewelry ring or pendant for you. Just schedule an appointment!