First things first: what's a sapphire? Well, it's a gemstone that's part of the corundum family. You might be picturing a stunning blue stone right now, and you're not wrong! But did you know that sapphires can strut their stuff in a whole rainbow of colors, except red? That's right – when it comes to sapphires, there's more than meets the eye!
Sapphire as birthstone for September
Sapphire was chosen as the birthstone for September for several reasons. First and foremost, the deep blue color of the sapphire is often likened to the autumn sky, making it an ideal symbol for the transition from summer to fall which typically occurs in September.
Colors of Sapphires: While blue is the most traditional and prized color for sapphires, they come in a spectrum of colors, known as "fancy sapphires." These can include pink, yellow, green, orange, and other hues. The rarity and desirability of colors can vary.
Deep Meaning of Sapphires:
But there's more to sapphires than meets the eye – they carry a wealth of symbolism:
- Symbol of Royalty: Kings and queens have long favored sapphires, associating these gems with nobility and prestige.
- Wisdom & Protection: Sapphires are often linked with wisdom and protection, believed to bring spiritual enlightenment and shield the wearer from harm.
- Romantic Symbol: Blue sapphires are popular choices for engagement rings, symbolizing loyalty, sincerity, and a commitment to a lasting and meaningful relationship.
Historical Background:
Now, let's take a trip back in time to discover the history of sapphires:
- Ancient Beliefs: In the good old days, people believed that sapphires could bring blessings from the heavens. Talk about heavenly!
- Medieval Influence: During the Middle Ages, sapphires were the 'it' accessory for clergymen. They were also thought to protect their wearers from envy and harm.
- Star Sapphires: Ever seen a sapphire that seems to have a star inside it? That's a star sapphire! They're pretty rare, so if you see one, count yourself lucky!
- Ceylon (Sri Lanka) Sapphires: If sapphires were celebrities, the Ceylon sapphire would be the A-lister. Known for their exceptional color and clarity, these gems are in a league of their own!
How to Care for Sapphires:
As with all precious gems, sapphires need a little TLC to keep their sparkle:
- Cleaning: Clean your sapphire jewelry gently using warm, soapy water and a soft brush or cloth. Ultrasonic or steam cleaners? Not a good idea – they might damage the gemstone.
- Avoid Abrasion: Although sapphires are pretty tough, they can still get scratched. Store your sapphire jewelry separately to avoid contact with harder materials.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Sapphires don't like sudden temperature changes. Keep them away from extreme heat or rapid temperature fluctuations.
- Regular Inspections: Check your sapphire jewelry settings periodically to ensure the stones are secure. And don't forget those regular check-ups with your jeweler!
In recent news, an 11.87-carat unheated Burmese sapphire fetched a whopping $660,900 at a Bonhams New York auction. This transparent cushion-cut gem sold for three times its estimated price (source).
Meanwhile, SAPPHIRE Technology has announced their latest TOXIC, NITRO+ and PULSE Radeon™ RX 6000 Series Graphics Cards, showcasing innovative cooling designs and remarkable performance (source).
To wrap it up, sapphires are more than just beautiful gemstones; they're symbols of royalty, wisdom, and protection, with a rich history that adds to their allure. With proper care, your sapphire jewelry will continue to be a timeless symbol of elegance and beauty for years to come. Ready to let your sapphires shine? 💙