Sapphire - September birthstone

Sapphires are possibly the most popular gemstone in the world.  Royalty has  preferred sapphires over diamonds as engagement rings because they are known to be far rarer than diamonds.  Some of the world's most famous sapphiress come from India, in the Vale of Kashmir, high in the Himalayas.  The fine blue gems found here have been known for about 100 years, but because of the high elevation mining can be carried out only a few months of the year.  Sapphires are also mined in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Madagascar and Australia. 

 

Sapphires come in many colors, however, blue is the most popular color and the rarest are the rich, medium royal blues.  Natural untreated sapphires are in a class of their own and are always more valuable.  Along with diamonds, sapphire is the hardest of all gems.  It is scratch resistant and not prone to chipping and breaking.  Sapphire rings and bracelets can be worn and enjoyed every day without fear of damaging the stones.

 

Sapphires were believed to attract divine favor to their owners.  A gem could preserve its wearer from envy, protect against captivity, and serve as a key to understanding the sayings of the ancient Greeks.  Sapphires are consiered to signify truth and sincerety.