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Sapphire
– September's Gemstone of Brilliant Blue
Author: Sarah Stephens
Sapphire is a
precious gemstone frequently incorporated into some of the most
modern, beautiful handmade jewelry in the world. It is most often
found in shades of deep blues, and is widely recognized as the
September Birthstone as well as zodiac signs of Taurus and Virgo, the
5th, 45th, 30th, 15th, and 50th anniversaries, the time of 10 am and
Thursday and Tuesday. But beyond its modern-day uses and
associations, sapphire holds a decadent mythological, spiritual and
etymological history that adds nostalgic value to its already strong
aesthetic worth. Read on for more information that will help you fall
in love with your sapphire jewelry – or inspire you to buy some today!
Sapphire is
the mineral variety of the species corundum. Although many people
associate Sapphire with the color blue, this precious colored gem
comes in a vast array of hues and saturations, in just about ever
color of the rainbow and clear as well, except for red (red ones are
Rubies!). These other colors are called "Fancy Sapphires."
The beautiful
blue Sapphire is immaculate, pure and heavenly. Throughout history,
the Sapphire has been associated with qualities like sympathy,
harmony, friendship and loyalty, permanency and reliability. Not
surprisingly, in some cultures sapphires as more popular than
diamonds as the center stone for engagement rings.
Sapphire
gemstones look best as parts of formal evening jewelry when paired
with diamonds, quartz or pearls. More casual combinations include
softer contrasts with green peridot, light aquamarine, citrine or
ruby. To see a selection of handmade artisan jewelry featuring
sapphire, click here. Sapphire is typically considered a
sophisticated gemstone that works well with any outfit. In earrings,
it works especially well to enhance the luster of blue eyes.
The word
Sapphire comes from the Hebrew Sapir. Centuries ago, the Persians
believed that the sky was one big, sparkling Sapphire, and called the
stone "the gem of the heavens." People believed that the
power of wisdom was held within the Sapphire, promoting mental
clarity, enabling the wearer to find the answer to their problems,
and let go of grudges, increasing tranquility in everyday life that
is sent from the heavens.
A sapphire engagement
ring value is determined by the richness and purity color of its
color. Most Sapphires are heat-treated to eliminate impurities and
improve color and clarity. Throughout history, the majority of the
world’s sapphires were mined in Sri Lanka, Madagascar and
Myanmar. Today, some of the finest Sapphires come from mines in Montana.
Mohs' Hardness
score is based on a 10 point scale where 10 is the most resistant,
like a diamond, and 1 is easily scratched, such as Talc. Sapphire
gets a score of 9, meaning that it is very scratch resistant and
therefore suitable as a component of everyday jewelry. Sapphire
gemstones should be regularly cleaned by a professional or with a
soft rag and mild soap and water, or an ultra-sonic cleaner or
steamer. Other methods, including solvents and harsh chemicals should
be avoided when cleaning your handcrafted jewelry as exposure to
these elements can damage semi-precious and precious gemstones and pearls.
Learn more
about all semi-precious gemstones, including amethyst, apatite, black
onyx, blue topaz, carnelian, chalcedony, citrine, coral, garnet,
white topaz, crystal, diamond, emerald, iolite, jade, Labradorite,
moonstone, pearl, peridot, prehnite, rose quarz, ruby, sapphire,
smokey topaz, tanzanite, tourmaline and tourquoise when you check out
this gemstone chart. |
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