The Sapphire: September Birthstone

History, legend and gemstone lore

The name Sapphire comes from the Greek word for Blue. Fine quality blue sapphires have always been rare and as such have been highly prized. Ceylon (Sri Lanka) has been the historical source of Sapphires, but Sapphires are found in other parts of Asia and Africa.

Source, Composition and Jewelry Variety

While Rubies are the red variety, Sapphires are the non-red variety of the mineral Corundum. Corundum is the second hardest mineral next to the diamond. While blue Sapphires are most popular, a wide range of other colors exist including pink, yellow, orange and purple. Like, Rubies, some Sapphire's exhibit a light effect called Asterism when highly polished and exhibit a beautiful six ray star on their surface. Fine star sapphires are rare and valuable. Origin plays a large influence in the value of a Sapphire. The most valuable Sapphires are from the Cashmere region followed by those from Myanmar (Burma) and Sri Lanka (Ceylon). Sapphires are often heat treated to bring out their color. Jewelry Sapphires that have not been heat treated, and instead exhibit natural vibrant color are more valuable.

Buying Sapphire Jewelry

Most jewelers will carry a selection of sapphire jewelry, selling attractive jewelry for anywhere from one hundred to a several hundred dollars. You can find a wide selection of Sapphire jewelry and other gemstone jewelry from reputable jewelers and online jewelry stores.

Be sure to Compare Jewelry Stores

For rare varieties and unique gemstone jewelry it may be best to find a specialty custom jeweler who can source fine gems and customize your jewelry. We can help. You may also wish to try buying sapphire gemstone jewelry (Sponsor Link) from a reputable online store which carries a variety of birthstone and gemstone jewelry.