Sapphire: The Birthstone Of September
Captivating everyone from royalty to gemstone collectors and jewellery fanciers alike for hundreds if not thousands of years, the sapphire is the birthstone of September and is a deeply symbolic stone. The name sapphire comes from the Greek word sappheiros, which probably referred to lapis lazuli, an intensely blue semi-precious stone flecked with gold-coloured pyrite.
Although known for its own attractive blue hues, sapphires actually come in a range of colours, although most sapphire jewellery enthusiasts and gem and jewellery professionals are referring to the blue variant when talking about sapphires. Shimmering in hues of pink, orange, yellow, green, purple, and violet, sapphires run a spectrum of colours that make them popular inclusions for jewellery, including sapphire engagement rings, sapphire earrings, and much more. We love the sapphire so much that we’ve put it at the heart of our Sapphire Dreams jewellery collection.
What Does Sapphire Symbolise?
For those who are interested in the meaning behind the world’s gemstones, you may be interested to know that traditionally, this September birthstone has symbolised sincerity, truth, faithfulness and nobility. Adorning the cloaks and robes of royalty and clergy for centuries, since sapphires were said to symbolise heaven. Meanwhile in ancient Persia (now modern Iran), it was believed that the earth actually rested on a giant sapphire, which was why the sky shone blue.
Like many gemstones, sapphire was and is believed to have healing properties. Whilst mediaeval Europeans believed that sapphire could cure plague boils and diseases of the eye, modern sapphire lovers believe that the stone helps to focus and calm the mind as well as remove unwanted thoughts, depression and mental tension. Said to be the gemstone of new love and commitment, this makes sapphires a fantastic choice for engagement rings.
Sapphire Dreams Ring by Argyle Jewellers
What Are Some Famous Sapphires?
Sapphires have been made famous by a range of discoveries, including the Rockefeller Sapphire: a 62.02 carat rectangular step cut stone that was discovered in Myanmar (Burma) – it’s a true masterpiece of nature’s creation. Once owned by a member of the Rockefeller family (hence the name), the sapphire was last sold at auction in April 2001 for a record breaking sum of USD$3,031,000.
Aside from the Rockefeller Sapphire, one of the most renowned pieces of sapphire jewellery is the 12 carat blue sapphire engagement ring first worn by Princess Diana. Now being worn by her son’s wife Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, this iconic ring is haloed by precious diamonds and is set in white gold.
Where Can You Find Sapphires?
Sapphires sparkle all over the world, but there are some places that are known for their sapphire production. Kashmir, Myanmar and Sri Lanka are three historically known spots, but sapphires are also known to be unearthed in Australia (see: the Parti sapphire), Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar and the United States within the state of Montana.
Sapphire Buying Tips
Whether you’re purchasing a loose sapphire or sapphire jewellery, it’s best to go in armed with knowledge to ensure you are getting a true intended gemstone. It’s important to note that many sapphires are treated to bring out their desirable colour – however, at Argyle Jewellers, we stock only natural, non-treated sapphires.
When purchasing sapphires, always pay attention to colour, inclusions, cut, and carat weight – these will help determine the quality of your new stone. And, if you’re looking to purchase sapphire jewellery, trust that Argyle Jewellery will take care of you. We source only genuine, ethically sourced gemstones that are traceable to their source, ensuring you get only a truly beautiful stone.
Check out our new range of of Sapphires from Sapphire Dreams on our website today.