For those born in September, the sapphire is their birthstone—a gem that has captivated the hearts of many for centuries with its deep, celestial blue. At The Bench Jewellery, we understand the importance of personalizing your jewellery, and there’s no better way to celebrate your September birthday than with a piece featuring this stunning gemstone.
The History of Sapphire
Sapphires have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. In ancient Greece and Rome, kings and queens believed that blue sapphires protected their owners from envy and harm. The clergy of the Middle Ages wore sapphires to symbolize Heaven, and to this day, the gemstone is still associated with divine favour.
The name “sapphire” comes from the Greek word “sappheiros,” meaning “blue stone.” However, sapphires can actually come in a variety of colours, including pink, yellow, green, and even a rare orange-pink variety known as padparadscha. Despite these variations, the classic deep blue sapphire remains the most recognized and sought-after.
The Symbolism of Sapphire
Sapphires are often associated with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. In many cultures, they are believed to bring peace of mind, serenity, and spiritual enlightenment. The stone’s strong connections to royalty and romance make it a popular choice for engagement rings and other significant pieces of jewellery.
At The Bench Jewellery, we cherish the sapphire not only for its beauty but also for the powerful meanings it holds. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a September birthday or simply appreciate the symbolism, sapphire jewellery offers both elegance and a deep sense of history.
Interesting Facts About Sapphire
Sapphires are more than just a beautiful gemstone; they are steeped in fascinating history and unique qualities. Here are some interesting facts about sapphires that you might not know:
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Colour Variety: While blue is the most recognized color for sapphires, they actually come in almost every color of the rainbow, including pink, yellow, green, and purple. These non-blue sapphires are known as “fancy sapphires.” However, red corundum is classified as rubies, even though they share the same mineral composition as sapphires.
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Star Sapphires: Some sapphires display a rare optical phenomenon known as asterism, where a star-shaped pattern appears near the surface of the stone. These are called “star sapphires” and are highly prized by collectors and jewellery enthusiasts.
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Durability: Sapphires are quite durable, with a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, second only to diamonds. This makes them an excellent choice for engagement rings and other jewellery that will be worn daily.
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Famous Sapphires: The “Star of India” is one of the most famous sapphires in the world. Weighing over 563 carats, it is one of the largest star sapphires ever discovered and is currently housed in the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
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Symbolism and Beliefs: Historically, sapphires have been believed to protect their wearers from envy and harm. They were also thought to symbolize purity and wisdom, often used in ancient times by priests and kings.
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Royal Connection: Sapphires have long been associated with royalty. One of the most famous pieces of sapphire jewellery is Princess Diana’s engagement ring, which features a stunning 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds. This ring is now worn by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.
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Synthetic Sapphires: In 1902, the French chemist Auguste Verneuil developed a process to create synthetic sapphires, known as the Verneuil process. These lab-grown sapphires have the same chemical and physical properties as natural sapphires but are more affordable.
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Healing Properties: In the Middle Ages, people would grind sapphires into a powder believing it could treat eye diseases and improve vision.
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Sapphire Anniversary: In the modern era, the sapphire is the traditional gift for a 45th wedding anniversary, symbolizing the enduring love and loyalty in a long-lasting marriage.
These fascinating facts highlight the allure and versatility of sapphires, making them one of the most cherished gemstones worldwide.
Sapphires in Custom Jewellery
One of the greatest joys at The Bench Jewellery is crafting custom pieces that tell a story. Our goldsmiths in Kamloops, Kelowna, and Chilliwack are experts in working with sapphires, transforming them into custom creations that resonate with personal meaning.
When it comes to designing custom sapphire jewellery, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re envisioning a classic solitaire ring, a pair of striking earrings, or a unique pendant, sapphires can be the perfect centerpiece. Our jewellers can guide you through selecting the right shade, cut, and setting to create a piece that is uniquely yours.
Caring for Your Sapphire Jewellery
Sapphires are one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds, making them an excellent choice for everyday wear. However, like all precious stones, they require proper care to maintain their brilliance.
To keep your sapphire jewellery looking its best, we recommend cleaning it regularly with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid exposing your sapphires to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, and always store them separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
If your sapphire jewellery ever needs a professional touch-up, our teams in Kamloops, Kelowna, and Chilliwack are always here to help with cleaning, repairs, or adjustments.
Conclusion: The Timeless Allure of Sapphire
Sapphires are more than just a birthstone; they are a symbol of timeless beauty and enduring love. Whether you’re drawn to their deep blue hues or their rich history, sapphires make a meaningful addition to any jewellery collection.
At The Bench Jewellery, we are proud to offer custom jewellery services in Kamloops, Kelowna, and Chilliwack, where our skilled jewellers can bring your sapphire visions to life. Celebrate your September birthday, or simply indulge in the beauty of this classic gemstone, with a piece that is uniquely yours.