Birthstones: September - Sapphire

Sapphires

 

Most notably blue, sapphires are the birthstone of September. Sapphires are members of the corundum family, and while in it's most purist form are colorless, trace elements cause variations in color. They come in almost any color of the rainbow (except for red, which are considered rubies!) - even black and brown. Colored sapphires that are not blue are considered "fancy sapphires."

The standard by which most blue sapphires are judged are an intense, velvety blue from Kashmir. They appear velvety due to micro inclusions that refract the light. The intense blue of sapphires has become the color standard for other blue gemstones.

Other notable sapphire colors include padparadscha (which means lotus flower in the native Sri Lankan language), which color is pinkish orange. While blue sapphire is undeniably the most popular, different color varieties have come into popularity with different trends (read: rainbow!). 

Not only is sapphire the birthstone of September, but also the gift of fifth and 45th wedding anniversaries. They symbolize nobility, truth, faithfulness and are just as timeless as their allure. 

Shopping for Sapphire

Due to sapphire's popularity, there are many imitators (imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, right?). These imitators include glass, plastic and lab grown or synthetic sapphire. When shopping for sapphire, assume treatment unless otherwise stated. Almost all sapphires have some treatment - natural or lab created. Naturally being heated from the earth to change color makes the gemstone more valuable and rare. Heating in a lab decreases rarity and value.

Color is the driving factor for sapphire's price, the stone should be bright and intense. If it's too dark to where you can't see the color or too light where it's not very saturated, it's less valuable. Ultimately though, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Caring for Sapphire

Sapphire (regardless of the color!) has a hardness of 9 on Moh's scale (Diamond's are 10!). They are hearty and steadfast, which make them ideal for any piece of jewelry. They will not show as much wear on a ring or bracelet as other softer stones will. 

If you do want to clean your jewelry with sapphires, I advise using a soft toothbrush and warm, soapy water. Additionally, regularly have your prongs and settings checked by a jeweler to make sure your sapphires will remain safely in your jewelry.

Major Sapphire Moments

Arguably one of the most famous blue sapphires on earth - this 12 carat ceylon stunner.
Originally given to Princess Di in 1981. 

 
Jackie Kennedy's Sapphire, Diamond and Ruby Van Cleef & Arpels desk clock.
Casual enough, right?

Helen Mirren at the 2018 Oscars - need I say more? The woman can do no wrong.  

For more information on Sapphires, email: info@annapjay.com