The sapphire gemstone is a brilliant blue symbol of trust, peace and fidelity, with a rich intercontinental background. It’s no wonder why the sapphire has been the jewel of choice for many over time, and after reading this post, sapphire jewelry may also be your decoration of choice.
What’s So Special About the September Birthstone?
The dazzling sapphire birthstone exists under an umbrella of gems called corundum. Although the go-to color for sapphires tends to be a deep blue, they offer many other choices if blue isn’t your shade. They come in every conceivable color- yellow, pink, orange, green, purple, black, white- except for red. Red corundum is another iconic gemstone you may have heard of, called ruby.
What is a Padparadscha Sapphire?
The pink-orange variety of this gem has a special moniker: Padparadscha sapphire. These peachy, punch-colored gems get their name from the similarly tinted lotus blossom blooms.
They are the rarest and most luxurious type of sapphire - and my personal favorite. Whenever pink is an option, I have to choose it. And after all, if you’re going to splurge on jewelry, you may as well fully commit!
Featuring: David Gross
How Long Do Sapphires Last?
On the Mohs Hardness Scale, sapphire scores a 9, meaning it is a very durable stone fit for everyday wear if you want to inject glamour into your routine. However, it also means that you’ll want to be careful with how you store it. The September birthstone doesn’t play well with other, softer stones and will scratch them if kept together.
Featuring: David Gross
Where in the World Is the September Birthstone Found?
As the name “Padparadscha” hints, the sapphire has some far-reaching origins. It wouldn't be a one-stop trip if you wanted to see the mines for September’s birthstone. You would need to take trains, boats and planes worldwide.
Here are just a few of the places you could expect to hit on a sapphire world tour (if there was such a thing):
- China
- India
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Montana, USA
- Norway
- South Africa
- Switzerland
- Tanzania
- Thailand
I could go on, but you get the idea – plus, I’m getting jealous of how many countries sapphires have been to.
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The September Birthstone's Symbolism and Meaning
Now that we’ve gone over the physical properties of sapphire, you’ll learn how September’s birthstone has so much more going for it than just its looks. There are a great deal of positive connotations that the stone has collected over time.
In Roman times, people believed sapphires would protect wearers from harm and envy. Since then, the meaning and symbolism evolved to include trust, faithfulness, sincerity, hope, wisdom, peace, clarity and focus of the mind. And I thought I was good at multitasking.
Iconic Sapphire Moments
Still need convincing that the sapphire is the height of elegance? Many famous figures, known for their impeccable style, have had iconic September birthstone jewelry moments.
Sapphires have been a favorite of the British royal family for a long time, most notably a statement engagement ring that has been passed down to multiple wearers. The blue sapphire ring surrounded by a halo of diamonds and set in white gold has been a favorite of jewelry lovers for decades.
Even the mythical Greek figure Helen of Troy, whose beauty instigated a war, supposedly owned a large star sapphire that was said to be the source of her attractiveness.
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Sapphire Buying Guide
As the examples above demonstrate, sapphire is a widely accepted alternative to diamond engagement rings. It could even be the “something blue” to your bridal look. Sapphire is also popular for spouses on their 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries.
Given the meaning attributed to the September birthstone, sapphires' connection to weddings and anniversaries makes sense. As a durable symbol of trust and fidelity, it is the perfect gift to celebrate or say you aspire to a faithful, long-lasting marriage.
But regardless of your marital status, it’s always a great time for sapphire to shine. Earlier, I mentioned that the gem is strong enough for everyday wear, and you should take advantage of this fact. Whether it’s an evening gown, professional workwear or a simple sundress, wear blue to complement the sapphire’s signature color or a neutral white to make the gem pop, regardless of your chosen variant
Check out gorgeous sapphire jewelry from Jedora and browse our sapphire rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets pendants and sapphire gems!
Featuring: David Gross
How to Care for Your Sapphires
When it comes to caring for your sapphires, less is usually more. Of course, it’s always an option to take it to a professional, but it's doable if you’re a DIY person.
You’ll want to avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners because these tools expose sapphires to drastic temperature changes, harsh vibrations, or chemicals that may damage the surface or interior of the stone. Most sapphire varieties require only the occasional cleaning with warm, soapy water (gentle dish soap without ammonia, phosphates, or anything abrasive) and a soft brush.
However, if your sapphire jewelry is in silver, you need to take some extra caution if you decide to polish it afterward. Be careful that no silver polish you use touches the sapphire because it will damage it.
Frequently Asked Questions about September’s Birthstone
What color is the September birthstone?
The September birthstone, sapphire, is a type of stone called corundum, typically blue. However, it comes in almost every color except red - red corundum is a ruby.
How much is sapphire jewelry?
Like any type of gemstone, the price depends greatly on the quality and size. But, in general, sapphires are one of the more expensive jewels.
When was sapphire first discovered?
Blue sapphires were discovered in 1880 in Kashmir, still part of India. However, historical records indicate that people wore sapphire long before then, even in medieval and Roman times.
Is sapphire the only September birthstone?
Yes, sapphire is the only official birthstone for September. However, some sources propose a variety of other gems (moonstone, lapis lazuli, peridot, sardonyx, agate, zircon). The short answer is that it depends on who you ask.
What are the spiritual benefits of sapphire?
Some say that the gem promotes focus, creativity, peace and purity. For these reasons, it is widely used during meditation. The blue variants are also said to open the throat and third eye chakra.
Kyra Hensley and Anna Anderson contributed to this article.
