All About September Birthstone – Sapphires

When it comes to birth stones, each month has a special gem associated with it. For those lucky individuals born in September, the birth stone of choice is the stunning sapphire. Known for a variety of colors, sapphires are not limited to their deep blue hue.. Here explore sapphire, from its history and meaning to its colors and uses.

History and Meaning of Sapphires – Also September Birthstone

Sapphires have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans cherished sapphires, believing these gems symbolized wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Royalty and clergy often wore sapphires as a symbol of protection and guidance.

Derived from the Latin word “saphirus” and the Greek word “sappheiros,” both meaning “blue,” the word “sapphire” carries a historical connection to the gem’s distinctive color. Blue sapphires have long been the most popular and well known variety, but sapphires actually come in a rainbow of colors, including pink, yellow, green, and even white.

Associated with qualities like wisdom, loyalty, and nobility, sapphires are believed to bring clarity of thought, mental focus, and spiritual enlightenment to those who wear them.

Varieties of Sapphires

While blue sapphires are the most famous, there are several intriguing varieties of sapphires, each with its unique charm.

Blue Sapphires: As mentioned earlier, blue sapphires are the most well known variety. Ranging in color from light to dark blue, they are often associated with tranquility and wisdom.

Pink Sapphires: Pink sapphires are delicate and feminine. They represent love, romance, and passion. They come in various shades of pink, from pale blush to deep rose.

Yellow Sapphires: Yellow sapphires radiate warmth and positivity. Associating with joy, wealth, and prosperity, sapphires hold positive symbolism. Yellow sapphires can vary from pale lemon to vibrant canary yellow.

Green Sapphires: Green sapphires are a symbol of growth, renewal, and harmony with nature. Their color can range from pale mint green to deep forest green.

White Sapphires: Colorless and often used as a more affordable alternative to diamonds, white sapphires provide an elegant and budget friendly option. They represent purity and clarity of thought.

Sapphire Uses and Benefits

Treasured for their beauty and symbolism, sapphires also offer practical uses and benefits:

Jewelry for September Birthstone: Commonly used in jewelry, sapphires adorn a variety of pieces such as rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Blue sapphire engagement rings have gained popularity due to their timeless elegance.

Astrological Significance: Those born under Saturn’s influence are believed to receive luck and protection through the association of sapphires with the planet Saturn in astrology.

Healing Properties of September Birthstone: Believed to have healing properties in alternative medicine, sapphires are thought to promote mental clarity, alleviate stress, and enhance intuition.

Birthstone Jewelry: Many people wear sapphire birth stone jewelry as a symbol of their birth month. It’s a meaningful and personal way to celebrate one’s birthday.

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Famous Sapphires – The September Birthstone

Throughout history, several famous sapphires have captured the world’s attention:

The Star of India: The American Museum of Natural History in New York City currently houses it.

The Blue Belle of Asia:Considered one of the most exceptional pink sapphires in the world, this stunning pink sapphire weighs 392.52 carats.

The Logan Sapphire:Weighing 423 carats, the Logan Sapphire ranks as one of the largest faceted blue sapphires. It is part of the Smithsonian’s National Gem Collection.

The Black Star of Queensland: Weighing 733 carats, this unique sapphire, famous for its dark color and star effect, stands as one of the largest black sapphires ever found.

Caring for Your Sapphire Jewelry – September Birthstone Jewelry

If you’re lucky enough to own sapphire jewelry, it’s essential to take proper care of it to maintain its beauty and brilliance:

Cleaning: Use a soft brush, mild soap, and warm water to clean sapphire jewelry. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.

Storage: Store your sapphire jewelry separately from other gems to prevent scratches. It’s best to keep them in a soft pouch or jewelry box with individual compartments.

Regular Inspections: Periodically have your sapphire jewelry checked by a professional jeweler to ensure that the stones are secure and in good condition.

Sapphire Myths and Legends

Sapphires have been the subject of various myths and legends throughout history:

Ancient Beliefs: In ancient times, people believed that sapphires could protect against evil spirits and poison. They also thought that wearing sapphires would bring good fortune.

Star Sapphires: Believed to be a powerful talisman that could guide travelers and provide protection, the star sapphire, with its unique star like pattern, held significant symbolism.

Royal Connections: In medieval Europe, kings and queens wore sapphires as a symbol of their power and divine favor, associating these gems with royalty.

Also Read- Best Wedding Rings In Singapore – Tips On Choosing Perfect Ring For You

Tips for Buying Sapphires

If you’re considering buying sapphire jewelry or loose sapphires, here are some tips to consider:

Color: Determine the color you prefer, whether it’s classic blue, romantic pink, vibrant yellow, or another shade. Make sure it has good color saturation.

Clarity: Look for sapphires with minimal internal flaws. A clean sapphire will have more brilliance.

Cut: Pay attention to the cut of the sapphire, as it affects the stone’s overall appearance and sparkle.

Carat Weight: Decide on the carat weight that suits your budget and style. Larger sapphires are rarer as well as more valuable.

Certification: Purchase from trusted sellers who provide certification for their sapphires, furthermore checking their authenticity and quality.

Interesting Facts and Figures

• Sapphires are one of the most precious gems, belonging to the corundum family.
• Primarily composed of aluminum oxide, they derive their blue color from trace elements of iron and titanium.
• While blue remains the most common color, sapphires are available in various colors such as pink, yellow, green, purple, and even white sapphires.
• The word “sapphire” comes from the Greek word “sappheiros,” meaning blue stone.
• Sapphires are very hard, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral strength, just below diamonds.
• The blue sapphire is the birth stone for September, symbolizing wisdom, loyalty, and nobility.
• Sapphires have a rich historical significance. Ancient civilizations believed they protected their wearers from envy and harm.
• The Star of India, a famous sapphire, weighs 563.35 carats and is one of the largest and oldest star sapphires in the world.
• For centuries, royal jewelry has incorporated sapphires in its designs. Princess Diana’s engagement ring, now worn by Kate Middleton, features a blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds.
• They find application in scientific instruments, high durability windows, and wrist watch crystals.

Key Takeaways

• Sapphire Variety: Sapphires, the birthstone for September, come in a spectrum of colors, not just blue. Varieties include blue, pink, yellow, green, as well as white sapphires.

• Symbolism: Sapphires symbolize wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Throughout history, people have liked them for their protective qualities and positive energies.

• Historical Significance: Ancient civilizations and royalty have revered sapphires, showcasing their timeless allure and significance in various cultures.

• Rarity and Value: Blue sapphires are especially valuable, often touching high prices at auctions due to their rarity and beauty.

• Famous Sapphires: Notable sapphires, like the Star of India and Princess Diana’s engagement ring, have become legendary, adding to the gemstone’s allure.

• Industrial Uses: Beyond jewelry, sapphires find applications in scientific instruments, spacecraft, as well as industrial windows due to their durability.

• Synthetic Sapphires: Laboratories can create sapphires with the same properties as natural ones, offering alternatives for various purposes.

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