An Introduction to Sapphires, September's Birthstone

September 05, 2019

Blue Sapphire - Photo Courtesy of Thomas Samson

Photo courtesy of Thomas Samson

 

Sapphire is a significant stone for many number-related milestones. Not only is it the birthstone for September, it is also the gem representing the 45th anniversary and the sapphire jubilee, which is the 65th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign over Britain. 

Sapphire is a sibling to the gemstone ruby. Both are varieties of the mineral “corundum”. Most people would say that the sapphire’s color is typically blue, but natural "fancy" sapphires also occur in many colors. There are also "parti sapphires" that show two or more colors. Just like ruby, sapphire is a 9 on the Moh’s hardness scale, which makes them ideal stones for daily wear due to their toughness.




Also in Birthstone Articles

 Photo Courtesy of G.I.A.
An Introduction to Blue Zircon, December's Birthstone

December 03, 2019

Blue zircon shares the honor of being December’s birthstone with another beautiful blue stone: turquoise. Although zircon sounds like some sort of synthetic material, it in fact isn’t. Blue zircon is a natural stone. 

Continue Reading

Imperial Topaz - Image courtesy of GIA
An Introduction to Topaz, November's Birthstone

November 07, 2019

Topaz is the birthstone for November and represents the 16th wedding anniversary alongside with peridot. This gemstone’s name comes from the ancient Greek name “Topazios” for Saint John’s Island in the Foul Bay of Egypt. 

Continue Reading

Black Opal
Opals - One of October's Birthstones

October 10, 2019

Opals are unique gemstones. Although geologists don’t really have a conclusive answer as to exactly how these stones form, one thing is for certain – water is involved.

Continue Reading