Birthstones have enjoyed a long and colorful history, having found their place in different cultures, legends, and traditions. They’re often associated with months of the year or in some cases, astrological signs, as well as luck, wisdom, and tranquility. There exist several interpretations of birthstones, but one thing about them is universally true for fans of birthstone-themed jewelry: they add a dash of elegance to any look and they make for a fun personalized piece in any collection.
Come September, we celebrate the arrival of the regal sapphire.
To get to know this birthstone better, let’s start with how this prized gem isn’t always just blue.
Sapphires, which are made from the mineral corundum, actually come a range of colors. Blue just happens to be one of its most popular hues. (Add to your knowledge that rubies are also made of corundum, so what can be mistaken for a red sapphire is actually a ruby).
Generally speaking, sapphires themselves aren’t particularly rare, but what can make them incredibly valuable is finding jewelry-quality pieces. This gemstone can be mined in several countries across different continents, but quantity does not always translate to quality. Being fortunate enough to come across sapphires that have made it to a top-tier jeweler’s boutique is indeed a blessing. More so, how several high-profile brides—such as royal ladies Princess Diana and Kate Middleton, fashion icon Victoria Beckham, and actresses Penelope Cruz and Elizabeth Taylor—have worn sapphire engagement rings is a further testament to the inherent value of this gem.
Padparadscha sapphire
For those curious to know what the rarest sapphire variety is, which also happens to be one of the most expensive gems of all time, it’s the Padparadscha sapphire. Perhaps even surpassing the cost of diamonds on occasion, the Padparadscha sapphire boasts of a beautiful orange-pink tone. Yes, there are indeed two-toned sapphires and they’re officially called bi-color or parti-colored sapphires. These unique colors occur naturally, so getting to call one your own likely means you own a gemstone that no one else in the world has. The best bi-color sapphires are thought to be those that begin with one solid color on one end, gradually fade out to reveal a complementary color, and end with the second full color.
Now that you have a deeper appreciation of September’s sapphires, let’s move onto the symbolism surrounding them.
Symbolism of Sapphires
Because sapphires are found in many parts of the world, different cultures have crafted different stories that speak of this gem’s hidden powers. For instance, religious authorities from powerful nations in the Middle Ages adorned their robes with sapphires, blue ones especially, because of their association with heaven and wisdom.
Ancient Roman and Greek societies believed that sapphires held protective magic; those who wore them were spared from envy and harm and were even given good health and healing. Persians went as far as believing that the earth itself rested on a giant sapphire, and it was what gave the sky its blue color. All in all, many cultures from the past regarded this gemstone as possessing a divine connection with the cosmos; those who accessorized with it would be blessed with spiritual enlightenment and enjoy strengthened faith.
Turning our attention to belief systems in the East, the sapphire becomes all about the element of water. Including sapphires in one’s jewelry looks helps attract peace, positive movement, purification, quiet strength, and stillness. Yellow sapphires in particular are considered bringers of prosperity and abundance into one’s home.
More modern interpretations of sapphire’s meaning rest on the fact that blue is the rarest color in all of nature. Thus, a blue sapphire, the most well-known variety of this gem, is frequently related to being one-of-a-kind, sent by the gods, and simply being a cut above the rest.
One of the Hardest Gems
In the jewelry world, sapphires are used widely due to several reasons. The first is that sapphires are tough—literally. They are one of the hardest gemstones around and this makes them a good choice for everyday-wear pieces. Sapphires rank 9 out of 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale.
Second, they are beautiful in practically any kind of setting from rings and pendants, to bangles and earrings of all sizes.
Thirdly, they look best in the classic cuts of oval and cushion which makes them a truly timeless gem that transcends trends.
However, this doesn’t mean that sapphires aren’t also found in more atypical items. We’ve seen sapphires used it tiaras worn by women in today’s royal families, French combs, men’s cufflinks, and brooches. It’s also possible to dream up an accessory bejeweled in sapphires just for you if you work with a skilled jeweler who can realize the vision.
Sapphire is both wearable and special, which means it’s easy to find an occasion to show off your go-to pieces featuring this gem.
With all the magic associated with sapphires, September babies can wear their birthstone one with pride and fondness.
Not sure if your piece is made from sapphire or another gemstone? Let Willyn Villarica, the only NAJA-recognized Filipino appraiser and certified gemologist, provide a professional valuation and assessment. With her years of experience and advanced tool technology, you can be assured of an accurate, professional, and true assessment.
For inquiries, reach out via email at willynvillarica@willynvillaricajewelry.com, or connect on Facebook (Willyn Villarica Jewelry) or Instagram (@willynvillarica_jewelry).
