What’s the Birthstone for September?

Written By Allie Perry September 6, 2024

A gem of royalty, wisdom, and protection, sapphire is the birthstone for September. Its beauty and value have made it one of the most cherished and revered gemstones in the world! But sapphires are way more than just pretty blue stones- they come in a variety of stunning hues and carry rich history and symbolism!

Varieties and Colors of Sapphire

While the word "sapphire" may immediately make you imagine a rich, deep blue gemstone, they actually come in a wide range of colors. Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, and their range of colors depends on the presence of different trace elements. Here's a breakdown of the stunning color palette:

• Blue Sapphires: The most famous variety, blue sapphires range from light sky blue to deep, velvety royal blue. The presence of titanium and iron gives sapphires their blue hue, and stones from regions like Kashmir, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka are particularly prized.

• Fancy Sapphires: These are sapphires in colors other than blue, thanks to different trace elements:
• Pink: Produced by trace amounts of chromium.
• Yellow and Green: Caused by varying amounts of iron.
• Purple and Violet: Results from a mix of trace elements like vanadium.
• Padparadscha Sapphires: A rare and highly sought-after variety that displays a blend of pink and orange tones, reminiscent of a sunset.

• Color-Change Sapphires: These gems exhibit a phenomenon where they change color under different lighting conditions, typically shifting from blue in daylight to purple under incandescent light.

• Star Sapphires: Some sapphires exhibit a rare phenomenon called "asterism," where needle-like inclusions of rutile within the sapphire cause a star-like pattern to appear on the surface of the gem when light hits it. These "star sapphires" are highly sought after and are often cut as cabochons to enhance the effect.

Symbolism and Meaning of Sapphire

Sapphires have been revered for thousands of years across different cultures. Here are some of the key symbolic meanings associated with this gem:

• Wisdom and Learning: In ancient Greece and Rome, it was believed that wearing a sapphire would attract wisdom and divine favor. Clergy in the Middle Ages often wore blue sapphires to symbolize heaven.
• Protection: Sapphires have long been associated with protection from harm. In medieval Europe, knights would wear sapphires into battle as a talisman to keep them safe and deflect evil.
• Loyalty and Trust: In the realm of love, sapphires symbolize loyalty and fidelity, making them a popular choice for engagement rings. The deep blue hue is often associated with sincerity, trust, and faithfulness.
• Royal Connections: Due to its regal appearance and deep symbolism, sapphire has been the choice of royalty for centuries. One of the most famous sapphire pieces is Princess Diana's engagement ring, now worn by Kate Middleton.

How to Care for Sapphire Jewelry

Sapphires are incredibly durable, with a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them second only to diamonds in terms of hardness. However, proper care will ensure your sapphire retains its brilliance and beauty for years to come.

Here are some tips for caring for sapphire jewelry:

1. Cleaning: Sapphires can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are also safe for most sapphires, but it’s best to avoid them if your sapphire has inclusions or fractures.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: While sapphires are tough, harsh chemicals and cleaners can still damage them. Avoid wearing sapphire jewelry while cleaning or swimming in chlorinated pools.
3. Storage: Store your sapphire jewelry separately from softer gemstones to avoid scratches. You can use a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box for safekeeping.
4. Regular Maintenance: Over time, even the toughest stones can show signs of wear. Bring your sapphire jewelry to a professional jeweler for periodic cleaning and inspection to ensure the stone is secure in its setting.

So if you were born in September, or you’re looking for a timeless piece of jewelry or alternative engagement rings, sapphires are perfect for you in whatever color you choose!

Check out these sapphire pieces that are ready to ship!