September Birthstone - Sapphire

Happy Birthday September, your birthstone is the fabulous Sapphire!


Derived from the Latin word "saphirus" and the Greek word "sapheiros" both literally meaning blue.  Although the sapphire is best known in royal blue, the gem occurs in many colors ranging from olive green, gray, black and colorless.  Sapphires also come in pink, yellow and orange.  These varieties are known as padparadscha, meaning lotus flower.  This multi gemstone ring, by Skaneateles Jewelry, is a perfect example of the range of sapphires colors.

The largest faceted sapphire is located in the National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC.  This behemoth known as the Logan Sapphire, is an impressive 423 carats!  

Not only does the sapphire represent prosperity, beauty, innocence and inner peace, but this gem is also a 9 on the Mohs scale making the sapphire a great choice for an alternative engagement ring.  Sapphires are also often associated with royalty, hence the name "Royal Blue".  One of the most famous engagement rings in history is a gorgeous sapphire and diamond halo ring first belonging to the late Princess Dianna and now Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge.  

Fun fact:  Although rare, caboshon cut sapphires can exhibit a phenomenon called the asterism.  This is better known as the Star Sapphire. 

Quote about sapphires...

“Secrets are worth more than silver and sapphires.”
― George R.R. Martin, A Dance with Dragons
 

Photo courtesy of: National Museum of Natural History, Washington, D.C. - The Logan Sapphire