For over a century, sapphire has been recognized as September’s official birthstone. The name “sapphire” comes from the Latin sapphirus and the Greek sappheiros, which both mean “blue stone,” though the gem comes in many other colors, too.
Sapphires have been treasured and used in jewelry making for thousands of years, and it’s no mystery why! Not only is this gem stunningly beautiful, but it also scores a 9 on the Mohs scale—only one rank below the diamond—making it tough enough to wear daily without having to worry about chipping or scratching the stone. But it wasn’t just superb durability that attracted the ancients to sapphires—it was also something more mystical.
To the ancient Greeks and Romans, blue sapphires were believed to provide protection to those who wore them. Similarly, in Medieval Europe, they were thought to be cures for various illnesses and ailments, but some cultures went even further. According to the ancient Persians, the earth itself rested upon a giant blue sapphire which gave the sky its signature hue.
Though such beliefs may have fallen out of fashion, this gorgeous stone never has. From royal robes to stunning engagement rings, the blue sapphire is an enduring favorite found around the world. Major mines are found in Kashmir, Myanmar and Sri Lanka, but smaller sources have been discovered in Australia, Madagascar and even the USA, hidden deep within the mountains of Montana.
Of course, thanks to modern technology, sapphires don’t always have to come from the ground; they can be grown in the lab! Lab-created sapphires are chemically, physically and optically identical to those that were formed within the earth. These are a great option for eco-conscious shoppers or for those looking for a flawless stone at a fraction of the price.
Check out our beautiful line of sapphire jewelry right here on our website or drop by one of our stores to see it for yourself!
