September Birthstone: The Sapphire
Sabrina Easley
The very first hints of a chill in the air as September rolls around bring up images of the classic, cool blue hue of a lovely sapphire. However, many people do not know that sapphires can come in every color, not just blue, making this birthstone very versatile! Not only is this multi-colored gem eye-catching, but it ranks at a 9 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making it very resistant to surface scratches and abrasions.
18k Multi-Colored Sapphire Bracelet
For some additional fun facts on this lovely corundum, keep reading below!
Sapphires and Their Many Meanings
The very word itself, sapphire, technically refers to the blue corundum variety while ruby refers to the red corundum variety. Colloquially, however, the term “sapphire” encapsulates not just the blue-toned variety, but other colors (outside of red) as well. Sapphires often symbolize sincerity, truth, and faithfulness; the stone itself has long been associated with royalty, romance, and the human soul.
Often adorning the nobility, and even the robes of the clergy, sapphires were not just a status symbol, but often seen as a representation of Heaven itself. They were also used as a protective stone, keeping harm and envy, or even the effects of some poisons and illnesses, away from the wearer.
How to Care for Sapphires
18ky and PT Diamond and Sapphire Brooch
Not only do sapphires rank fairly high at a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale (meaning they are resistant to surface scratches and abrasions), but they also have excellent toughness and no cleavage (the tendency to chip when hit at a certain angle).
This tends to make sapphires a hardy gemstone suitable for regular or every-day wear. Warm, soapy water as well as ultrasonics at a jeweler are perfectly fine for cleaning your sapphire.
If you are interested in more information on sapphires, or you would like to admire our pieces in person, feel free to stop by during our standard operating hours!