Birthstone facts
September's birthstone is the sapphire, and it has a rich history and a number o
Published: Sep 14, 2023
Blue is the Most Common Color: When people think of sapphires, they often picture a deep blue gemstone. While sapphires come in a range of colors, blue sapphires are the most common and popular. However, sapphires can also be found in pink, yellow, green, purple, and even colorless varieties.
1. Symbol of Wisdom: Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom and royalty. In ancient times, it was believed that sapphires could protect their wearers from envy and harm.
2. Famous Sapphires: Some of the world's most famous sapphires include the Star of India, which is one of the largest sapphires in the world, and the Hope Sapphire, which is associated with the famous Hope Diamond.
3. Tough and Durable: Sapphires are known for their durability. They are second in hardness only to diamonds, making them an excellent choice for jewelry that will be worn frequently.
4. A Variety of Locations: Sapphires are found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Australia, and the United States. Each location can produce sapphires with unique characteristics and colors.
5. Ancient Beliefs: In ancient times, sapphires were thought to have protective powers. People believed that sapphires could guard against evil spirits and bring good fortune.
6.Celestial Connections: The word "sapphire" is derived from the Greek word "sappheiros," which referred to the gem's blue color. Some cultures associated sapphires with the heavens, believing they were a reflection of the sky.
7. Corundum Family: Sapphires belong to the corundum family of minerals, which also includes rubies. Both rubies and sapphires are composed of the same mineral, aluminum oxide, but their colors are due to different trace elements.
8. Birthstone Tradition: The practice of assigning specific gemstones to each month as birthstones can be traced back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated from the Breastplate of Aaron, a religious garment described in the Bible's Book of Exodus.
9. Variety of Cuts: Sapphires can be cut into various shapes and styles, including oval, round, cushion, and emerald cuts. The choice of cut can greatly affect the appearance and brilliance of the gemstone.
Whether you're a September baby or simply admire the beauty of sapphires, these fun facts can help you appreciate the rich history and symbolism associated with this stunning gemstone.
1. Symbol of Wisdom: Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom and royalty. In ancient times, it was believed that sapphires could protect their wearers from envy and harm.
2. Famous Sapphires: Some of the world's most famous sapphires include the Star of India, which is one of the largest sapphires in the world, and the Hope Sapphire, which is associated with the famous Hope Diamond.
3. Tough and Durable: Sapphires are known for their durability. They are second in hardness only to diamonds, making them an excellent choice for jewelry that will be worn frequently.
4. A Variety of Locations: Sapphires are found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Australia, and the United States. Each location can produce sapphires with unique characteristics and colors.
5. Ancient Beliefs: In ancient times, sapphires were thought to have protective powers. People believed that sapphires could guard against evil spirits and bring good fortune.
6.Celestial Connections: The word "sapphire" is derived from the Greek word "sappheiros," which referred to the gem's blue color. Some cultures associated sapphires with the heavens, believing they were a reflection of the sky.
7. Corundum Family: Sapphires belong to the corundum family of minerals, which also includes rubies. Both rubies and sapphires are composed of the same mineral, aluminum oxide, but their colors are due to different trace elements.
8. Birthstone Tradition: The practice of assigning specific gemstones to each month as birthstones can be traced back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated from the Breastplate of Aaron, a religious garment described in the Bible's Book of Exodus.
9. Variety of Cuts: Sapphires can be cut into various shapes and styles, including oval, round, cushion, and emerald cuts. The choice of cut can greatly affect the appearance and brilliance of the gemstone.
Whether you're a September baby or simply admire the beauty of sapphires, these fun facts can help you appreciate the rich history and symbolism associated with this stunning gemstone.