Sapphire – The Regal Birthstone of September

From ancient rulers to contemporary icons, sapphire has long been one of the world’s most celebrated gemstones. As September’s birthstone, it offers far more than just deep blue brilliance—it symbolises wisdom, loyalty, truth, and serenity.

Let’s explore what makes sapphire such a timeless treasure.

A Gem Fit for Royalty

The sapphire’s legacy spans centuries. In ancient Persia, it was believed that the sky was blue because it reflected the colour of giant sapphires beneath the Earth. In medieval Europe, clergy wore sapphires as a symbol of heaven, while kings valued the stone for its reputed protective powers.

Perhaps most famously, sapphire sits at the heart of Princess Diana’s engagement ring, now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales—a perfect example of how this gem continues to symbolise grace and tradition.

Colours Beyond Blue

While blue sapphires are the most iconic, the stone actually comes in a rainbow of hues—known as "fancy sapphires". These include:

• Pink sapphires for romance and compassion

• Yellow sapphires for prosperity

• Green sapphires for calm and balance

• Padparadscha sapphires – rare peachy-pink gems prized for their unique beauty

The blue variety, however, remains the most valued—especially those with a rich royal or cornflower blue tone.

Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

Sapphires are traditionally associated with:

• Wisdom and mental clarity

• Truth and sincerity

• Loyalty and devotion

• Protection from envy or harm

For those born in September, sapphire is believed to enhance focus, bring calm during chaos, and strengthen intuition—making it both beautiful and beneficial.

Sapphires in Fine Jewellery

Due to their hardness—second only to diamonds on the Mohs scale—sapphires are ideal for everyday wear in rings, earrings, and necklaces.

When shopping for sapphire jewellery, consider the 4 Cs:

• Colour: Deep, velvety blue is most prized

• Clarity: Most sapphires have inclusions; eye-clean stones are rare

• Cut: A well-cut sapphire brings out its brilliance

• Carat: Larger stones with rich colour are more valuable

Ethical and Sustainable Sapphires

With increasing demand for transparency in gemstone sourcing, ethical sapphire mining is more important than ever. Gemfields, for example, champions responsible sourcing through traceability initiatives and partnerships that support local communities.

For conscious consumers, choosing a sapphire with a traceable origin ensures your gem is not only beautiful, but also ethically sourced and socially responsible.

Why Gift a Sapphire?

Whether it’s a September birthday, an anniversary, or a symbolic gesture, sapphire is a meaningful gift. Its deep colour and historic prestige make it a favourite for engagement rings, milestone jewellery, and heirloom pieces.

Final Thoughts

The sapphire’s enduring appeal lies in its balance of mystery, elegance, and strength. As the birthstone of September, it invites introspection, expresses sincerity, and embodies the quiet confidence of timeless beauty.

Whether set in vintage gold or sleek modern designs, a sapphire is never just a gem—it’s a statement.