September Birthstone

Known for its deep and mesmerizingly blue color, September’s birthstone, the sapphire, comes in a variety of colors and shades. Still, the clear blue hues have forever been associated with royalty, fidelity and one’s soul.

But whether it is regality you seek, or simply expressing your love, sapphires are the promising way to go. With a long-standing history and captivating colors, sapphires have become one of the most popular and prized gems.

Similar to July’s birthstone - the crimson ruby - sapphires are a form of the mineral corundum, the second-hardest mineral. As in certain cultures the ruby represents the earth, warmth and strength, many ancient practices have considered the sapphire to be its antithesis; representative of the clear, starless skies, of the sea, divinity and peace.

Like many other birthstones, the sapphire was named by the ancient Greeks, as the word σάπφειρος translates to “blue”. Thanks to its bewitching celestial shades, the ancient Greeks associated the stone with the God Apollo, son of Zeus and God of truth, prophecy, poetry and healing. Thus, people would often wear the gem when they sought to consult oracles. Furthermore, the gem was considered to resemble an eye, and therefore manifest the powers of the “third-eye”, granting the ability to see into the future.

Interestingly enough, the notion that sapphires were somehow linked to eyes was maintained until the Middle Ages. Though it is believed that the sapphire was used to treat eye conditions as early as Ancient Egypt, the first recorded proof of this is from the 16th century. The Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V wore the stone and touched people’s eyes to cure any disease and offer his blessing.

Symbolizing devotion and nobility, sapphires have for centuries graced the robes and jewels of royal families. The most famous sapphire that exists to this day, is set in the late Princess Diana’s engagement ring, the same one which Prince William had later on given to his wife Kate Middelton. The association with such a beloved and cherished public figure, have only added to the classic and ethereal ambiance surrounding the coveted sapphire.

There seems to be an etymological disagreement with regards to the origin of the gem’s name. Some believe it derives from the appearance of the gem in the Hebrew bible ספיר (Sapir), while others believe it translates from Sanskrit शनिप्रिय (Shanipriya). In both ancient cultures the gem has a prominent role, thus supporting both claims.

In the bible, the sapphire is the second stone of the sacred priestly breastplate and according to different sources, it was used to enlighten the eyes and offer inner godly peace. Similarly, in Hindu tradition, the sapphire is also believed to bring its wearer closer to the planet of Saturn, which represented power and the ability to make a change. Moreover, Hindu mythology tells of a divine tree that grants wishes and its roots are made of sapphires while the fruits are enchanted rubies.

Whether truly magical or immersed in rich history and earthly grace, the sapphire is without a doubt one of the most noble and prized gems out there.