Few gemstones capture the imagination and inspire awe like the sapphire, the official birthstone of September. Known for its deep, velvety blue hue, sapphire has been revered throughout history as a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and divine favor. While blue sapphires remain the most iconic, this gemstone comes in a rainbow of colors, making it as versatile as it is breathtaking.
A Gemstone with Ancient Roots
Sapphires have been treasured for thousands of years. Ancient Persians believed the sky’s blue color was the reflection of a giant sapphire on which the world rested. In medieval Europe, clergy wore sapphires to symbolize heaven, while royalty used them as protective talismans against envy and harm. Kings and queens often adorned their crowns and robes with sapphires, associating the gem with power, integrity, and immortality.
The sapphire’s legendary history also ties it to romance. In 1981, Princess Diana received a stunning blue sapphire engagement ring, later worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales—solidifying sapphire’s place as a timeless symbol of love and elegance.
What Makes a Sapphire Special?
Sapphires are part of the corundum mineral family, the same family as rubies. What differentiates them is color: rubies are red corundum, while sapphires can be blue, pink, yellow, green, or even colorless. The most prized sapphires are a vivid “cornflower blue” or the deep royal blue known as “Kashmir sapphires.”
With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphires are second only to diamonds in durability, making them an excellent choice for everyday wear in rings, earrings, and bracelets. This strength has made sapphires a favorite for engagement rings and heirloom jewelry that can be passed down for generations.
Symbolism and Meaning
Throughout history, sapphires have carried rich symbolism. They represent wisdom, sincerity, and truth, and have often been linked with loyalty in love and friendship. Many cultures also believed sapphires had protective qualities, shielding wearers from harm and negative energies. For those born in September, the sapphire is thought to bring peace of mind, clarity, and good fortune.
Modern Styles and Jewelry
Sapphires are far more versatile than most people realize. While the deep blue is the classic, modern designers are increasingly working with pink, yellow, and green sapphires to create vibrant, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. At Johnston Jewelers, we offer sapphires in a variety of settings—whether you prefer a timeless solitaire ring, a halo pendant, or a custom bracelet accented with diamonds.
Sapphires also make stunning center stones for engagement rings, offering a meaningful alternative to diamonds while still providing durability and brilliance. For those who love unique jewelry, multi-colored sapphire designs combine different hues for a truly personalized look.
Sapphire Jewelry at Johnston Jewelers
At Johnston Jewelers, we honor the timeless beauty of sapphire with expertly crafted designs. Our collection includes classic blue sapphire jewelry as well as modern pieces featuring sapphires in a range of colors. Whether you’re celebrating a September birthday, marking an anniversary, or simply looking for a stone that carries centuries of symbolism, a sapphire piece is a meaningful and enduring choice.
With over 50 years of experience, we ensure every sapphire we source and set meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.