By Kimberly Tate, Content Specialist, American Gem Society and AGS Laboratories
A new month means we have a new birthstone(s) to celebrate! Sapphire, the birthstone of September, has been a cherished gem for thousands of years. In honor of this breathtaking gem, we’ve listed four fun facts about sapphire so you can learn more!
1. A Birthstone with Many Hues
Although typically thought of as blue, sapphires come in a rainbow of colors. Its hues vary from violet, green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and intermediate hues. Sapphires in any color but blue are called “fancies.” However, red is an exception because it is classified as ruby.
2. They Are Second Only to Diamonds in Durability
The remarkable hardness of sapphires, which measure 9 on the Mohs scale, is second only to diamond. That’s why sapphire is one of the few gemstones that make a great alternative for an engagement ring.
3. Sapphire Has Been Popular for Centuries
Greeks wore sapphire for guidance when seeking answers from the oracle. Buddhists believed that it brought spiritual enlightenment, and Hindus used it during worship. Early Christian kings cherished sapphire’s powers of protection by using it in ecclesiastical rings.
4. A Symbol of Royalty
Medieval kings wore sapphire and many believed that the gems would protect them in battle. Sapphire became a symbol of royal love in 1981 when Britain’s Prince Charles gave Lady Diana a 12-carat blue sapphire engagement ring. Prince William later gave this ring to Kate Middleton when he proposed in 2010.
Find the sapphire of your dreams at an American Gem Society (AGS) jeweler near you!
Check out these beautiful designs by AGS members for inspiration.
