September Birthstone
Few gemstones have the dramatic presence of the stunning sapphire. The stone goes back almost three millennia and some of the most famous gems in history have been sapphires. It’s also one of the four “precious” stones. Read on to discover the story behind this precious gem.
What is Sapphire?
The word “sapphire is derived from a Greek word sapheiros, and the Latin word saphirus which means (Surprise!) blue. Composed of the mineral corundum and trace elements of other minerals which alter its color, the sapphire ranks a 9 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Only diamonds are harder. Sapphire is the birthstone for September and the traditional gift for the 5th and 45th anniversaries.
Sapphire’s Many Colors
Despite the origins of its name, sapphire is not always blue. In fact, corundum comes in several colors including, pink, orange, yellow and green. A red corundum is known as a ruby. Non-blue sapphires are frequently called “fancy sapphires” and are less common than blue, which can range from light blue to deep intense blue – the most sought after shade. It is traces of iron and titanium that determine the hue of the blue color. Pink sapphires, known as padparadscha, are the rarest variety.
History & Symbolism
We have evidence that sapphire have been mined and treasured by societies since 800BC. Early Greek and Roman leaders worn the sapphire for protection. Sapphires were thought be a protection against evil in the Middle Ages. Clergymen were known to wear sapphire rings that represented heaven . The stones have also been believed to inspire truth, sincerity and guard against illness.
Where Does Sapphire Come From?
Sapphires have been found in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Australia, Burma, and Myanmar. Kashmir has been the source of some of the finest stones in recent years. In the U.S., the state of Montana has produced a unique shade of blue sapphires of its own.
Famous Sapphires
The largest known sapphire according to the Guiness Book of World Records is the Millennium Sapphire which weighed 61,500 carats. Many other sapphires have interesting stories.
*Please note that all metaphysical/ healing properties are for informational/entertainment purposes and do not constitute advice or recommendation concerning the treatment of physical, mental, or emotional medical conditions. The Jewelry Junket does not guarantee the validity of any of such statements.
