SEPTEMBER BIRTHSTONE: SAPPHIRE

The September birthstone, Sapphire, has been sought after and cherished for millennia. It is classically the blue variety of corundum (Ruby being the red variety), although it actually occurs in a wide variety of colours (including orange, pink and purple). In addition to being the September birthstone, Sapphire is also gifted at 5^th and 45^th wedding anniversaries.

Along with Ruby and Emerald, it is classed as one of the ‘big 3’. In fact ,the big 3 and diamond are the only 4 precious gemstones in existence – all others are semi-precious. Sapphire measures 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness and so is very robust and resistant to damage. This makes it very suitable for daily wear in rings or any other jewellery items. Sapphires are mined across the globe but the largest reservoirs are in Sri Lanka and Kashmir, India.

Sapphires are symbols of fidelity, sincerity, truth and nobility – hence the obvious choice for an engagement ring setting. Additionally, they have long been worn by clergy and royalty. Reputed healing powers include curing of plague boils and diseases of the eye. They were also thought to be an antidote to poison and a protection from injury and envy.

Perhaps the most famous modern sapphire is the 12 carat blue gemstone, surrounded by diamonds, in Princess Diana’s engagement ring – now worn by Duchess Kate Middleton. This classic design has been copied by many.

Whether you choose a classical blue Sapphire or a modern ‘coloured’ one you will have a gem of endurance.