Born in September, Lucky You
The Sapphire - September Birthstone.
Known for its deep blue colour, the sapphire has been one of the most sought-after gems for centuries. It’s part of what some consider to be the big three of jewelry stones, along with the ruby and the emerald. It has symbolized royalty and truth, while many have cherished its mysterious healing powers.
The sapphire is best known for its striking pure-blue colour, but it can range from greenish-blue to violet-blue. Part of the same corundum family as the ruby, stones in violet, green, yellow, orange, pink, and purple are known as “fancy sapphires.” Some exhibit colour changes, depending on the lighting.
The name “sapphire” came from the Greek word sappheiros, referring to a blue stone.
The sapphire has symbolized truth, sincerity, and nobility for thousands of years.
It has been closely associated with royalty. Kings and queens in ancient Greece and Rome believed the owner of a sapphire would be protected from harm and envy. It was also thought to attract wealth.
Those in ancient Greece associated the stone with Zeus, God of the sky, and others believed it provided an ability to see into the future or initiate guidance from the oracle.
It is said that ancient Persians believed that Earth rested on a giant sapphire that made the sky blue.
In the Middle Ages, clergy wore sapphires to represent heaven and it was thought to attract heavenly blessings.
Over time, the sapphire is said to be able to create peace between enemies and harmony between love interests.
It was believed to increase one’s overall health and strength, and contain healing powers, especially for diseases of the eye and against poisons.
In the 1880s, sapphires were found in Kashmir following a landslide high in the Himalayas. The location has produced some of the finest sapphires ever since.
Over the years, deposits have been found in a number of locations around the world.
The most prominent sources of sapphires include Kashmir, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. It has also been found in Africa, China, India, and in the United States.
Sapphires can include what is called an asterism—or the star effect. The phenomenon appears as a six-ray star pattern within the gem.
It is popular for engagement rings, as well as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and pendants.
For best cleaning results, use warm, soapy water.