Sapphire - The September Birthstone

Birthstones
Properties of certain gemstones are related to signs the zodiac signs or the months of birth. They are known as birthstones. In ancient times, the meaning of birthstones was symbolized by their association with events in history. Birthstones are believed to possess energy of the ruling planets they are associated with. Birthstones are said to affect the emotional, as well as physical well-being of the wearer. They are also believed to possess healing powers. Birthstones for each month have different and special attributes.

Sapphire- The September Birthstone
Sapphire is a favorite all over the world, on account of its availability in vivid colors and its versatility. Sapphire is the traditional, as well as the modern birthstone of September. It is also the birthstone of Virgo, the sixth zodiac sign. Sapphire is also considered to be the anniversary gem, for the 5th and the 45th years of marriage.

Sapphire is one of the four most precious gemstones (the other three being, diamond, ruby and emerald). Along with ruby, it is a variety of the mineral, corundum. Sapphire exists in a myriad of colors, including pink, orange and lavender. However, blue sapphire is well-known and also highly prized. The name sapphire is believed to originate from 'sapphirus', the Greek word, meaning blue. Sapphire has been found in Sri Lanka, since the 7th century. It is also found in Australia, America, Myanmar, China, Thailand, Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria.

Traces of the use of sapphire are found, since ancient times. There was a notion, that the Earth is set on sapphire, and hence, the sky is blue. It is also believed that the Ten Commandments, were written on sapphire. The ancient Egyptians associated sapphire with the 'eye of Horas' (the eye in the sky). It was also popular amongst the Romans, for its beauty. Sapphire was worn by kings, as it was believed to possess the property of wisdom; whereas, priests used it, as it was also said to symbolize purity. Sapphire was used as an antidote for poison and also as a cure for a number of illnesses, in ancient times.

Properties of Sapphire
Blue is the most prominent and popular color of sapphire. It is reminiscent of a cloudless night sky. The color, blue, is associated with trust, loyalty, wisdom, faith, understanding. These are also believed to be the significant properties of sapphire. Sapphire, the September birthstone, is said to completely lack all effervescent qualities.

Sapphire is associated with physical and emotional balance. Attributes like wisdom, purity and sympathy are linked with sapphire. Sapphire also stands for qualities required in a healthy relationship, like loyalty, faithfulness, truth, sincerity, constancy and reliability. Therefore, it signifies long term relationships. Sapphire also said to inspire clarity of thoughts and improve problem solving capacity. It is said to protect the possessor from evil thoughts. In ancient times, sapphire was used to perceive future. Hence, it is also believed, that sapphire strengthens the power of intuition.

Sapphire Jewelry
As sapphire is nearly as hard as a diamond. It also is durable and easy to handle. The largest sapphire, the Star of India, is of 563 carats and is on display in a museum in New York city. The Kashmir sapphire, velvety blue in color, is considered the most superior variety of sapphire. All kinds of sapphire jewelry; rings, earrings, necklaces; is available in a variety of enchanting designs. Necklaces or bracelets made using an assortment of sapphires in several colors. As sapphire stands for permanence in relationships, sapphire engagement rings are popular all over the world. Even Princess Diana, received a sapphire engagement ring from Prince Charles. There is also a belief, that the luster of sapphire in an engagement ring diminishes, if the partner is being unfaithful.

Sapphire, the September birthstone, will prove to be an excellent gift for your beloved, as it expresses love, longing and respect. The gorgeous, bright blue sapphire will surely be appreciated!