Sapphire: The Captivating Allure of September's Birthstone
History and Mythology of Sapphires
The sapphire's story is as old as civilization itself. Ancient Persians believed the Earth rested on a giant sapphire, its reflection giving the sky its color. In Ancient Greece and Rome, kings and queens wore sapphires as a powerful defense against harm and envy.
Biblical lore speaks of sapphires adorning the breastplate of the High Priest of Israel, symbolizing divine favor. Throughout history, sapphires have graced the crown jewels of numerous monarchies, including the British Imperial State Crown, which features the famous Stuart Sapphire.
Beyond their decorative use, sapphires were believed to have medicinal properties. Medieval Europeans used them to cure eye diseases and plague boils. As talismans, they were thought to protect travelers and attract heavenly blessings.
Geological Formation and Properties
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, second only to diamond in hardness. They form deep within the Earth under high pressure and temperature, typically in metamorphic rocks.
Chemically, sapphires are composed of aluminum oxide (Al2O3). Their famous blue color comes from trace amounts of iron and titanium. However, sapphires can occur in almost every color of the rainbow:
- Pink and red (the famous "ruby" is actually a red sapphire)
- Yellow and orange
- Green and purple
- Even colorless
One of the most fascinating varieties is the color-changing sapphire, which appears blue in daylight and purple under incandescent light.
Some sapphires exhibit a phenomenon called asterism – a star-like pattern that seems to float on the surface of a cabochon-cut stone. These "star sapphires" are highly prized for their rarity and unique beauty.
Sapphires in Jewellery
Sapphires lend themselves to various cuts, with the most popular being:
- Oval: Maximizes the color and brilliance
- Round: Classic and versatile
- Cushion: Combining a square cut with rounded corners
- Emerald: Rectangular step-cut that highlights the gem's clarity
In settings, sapphires shine in:
- Solitaire rings, where the gem takes center stage
- Halo settings, often surrounded by diamonds
- Three-stone arrangements, symbolizing past, present, and future
- Pavé settings, creating a carpet of sparkling gems
Famous sapphire jewellery pieces have captured the public imagination. Perhaps the most well-known in recent times is the sapphire and diamond engagement ring first worn by Princess Diana and now by Catherine, Princess of Wales. This 12-carat oval blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds has inspired countless imitations.
Other legendary sapphires include:
The Star of India: A 563-carat star sapphire, one of the largest in the world and
the Logan Sapphire: A 423-carat blue sapphire set in a brooch surrounded by 20 diamonds
To keep your sapphire jewellery looking its best:
- Clean it regularly with mild soap and warm water
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme heat
- Store it separately to prevent scratching other gems
Symbolism and Meanings of Sapphire
Traditionally, sapphires have been associated with:
- Wisdom and insight: Believed to bring mental clarity and spiritual enlightenment
- Loyalty and faithfulness: Often used in engagement rings as a symbol of commitment
- Nobility: Due to their long association with royalty
In modern times, sapphires have taken on additional meanings:
As the September birthstone, they're a popular gift for those born in this month
They're also the traditional gift for 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries
In the corporate world, blue sapphires are sometimes used in logos to convey trust and reliability
Astrologers associate sapphires with the planet Saturn and believe they can bring structure and discipline to one's life. In crystal healing practices, sapphires are thought to promote mental clarity and inner peace.
Buying Guide
When shopping for sapphire jewellery, consider the "Four Cs":
- Color: For blue sapphires, a vivid, velvety blue is most prized. In other colors, intensity and purity of hue are key.
- Clarity: While not as critical as with diamonds, cleaner stones are generally more valuable.
- Cut: A well-cut sapphire should reflect light evenly across its surface.
- Carat: Larger sapphires are rarer and thus more expensive per carat.
Natural vs. Synthetic Sapphires:
Natural sapphires are formed in the Earth and are therefore rarer and more valuable.
Whereas synthetic sapphires are lab-created but chemically identical to natural ones. They're more affordable and guaranteed to be ethically sourced.
Prices for sapphire jewellery can range from a few hundred pounds for small, commercial-quality stones to hundreds of thousands for large, high-quality gems.
Always purchase sapphires from reputable jewellers like Charles Hart Jewellers and Vintage Tom and ask for certification from recognized gemological laboratories.
Sapphires Beyond September
While celebrated as the September birthstone, sapphires have a year-round appeal:
- They're increasingly popular for engagement rings, offering durability and uniqueness.
- In men's jewellery, sapphires add a touch of color to cufflinks, rings, and tie pins.
- High jewellery and couture fashion often feature sapphires in innovative designs.
- Collectors seek out rare colors and phenomenal stones like star sapphires.
- Fine sapphires can be a sound investment, often appreciating in value over time.
In Conclusion
From ancient myths to modern engagement rings, sapphires continue to captivate us with their beauty and symbolism. Their durability ensures that sapphire jewellery can be treasured for generations, connecting us to history while remaining thoroughly contemporary.
Whether you're drawn to the classic blue or intrigued by the rainbow of other sapphire hues, there's a sapphire jewellery piece for every style and occasion. As you explore the world of sapphires, remember that each stone carries within it billions of years of Earth's history and the potential for countless future stories.
So why not add your own chapter to the sapphire's tale? Whether as a birthday gift, an engagement promise, or simply a personal indulgence, sapphire jewellery offers a timeless elegance that never fades.
Click here to browse our fine collection of vintage and antique sapphire jewellery.
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