September’s birthstone is the precious sapphire. A gemstone of royalty and wisdom, has been revered for centuries. Its deep, vibrant hues and symbolic meaning have made it a favourite for engagement rings, crowns, and heirlooms. Today, this stunning gem continues to captivate hearts with its unparalleled beauty and rich history. Let us discover the origins of sapphire, explore its incredible colour spectrum, and uncover some not so well known facts. Plus, we’ll introduce you to our sapphire engagement ring design—a masterpiece of craftsmanship and elegance.
A brief history of the sapphire
Sapphires have fascinated humans since ancient times. Their name comes from the Greek word *”sappheiros,”* meaning “blue stone.” Throughout history, sapphire has been associated with celestial powers and divine protection. In the Middle Ages, it was believed that sapphires could protect their wearers from harm and envy, and even detect fraud or deception. Kings, queens, and priests often adorned themselves with sapphire jewellery as a symbol of wisdom, faith, and virtue.
Origin or where do you find sapphires
Sapphires are primarily found in countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Madagascar. However, Australia and Montana in the U.S. have also gained prominence for producing high-quality sapphires. Over time, sapphires have made their way into the hands of jewellers who use the gem’s allure to create iconic pieces for royalty and celebrities alike.
Colour spectrum is more than just blue
When people think of sapphires, the image of a royal blue gem usually comes to mind. But did you know that sapphires come in nearly every colour of the rainbow? These varieties, called “fancy sapphires,” include pink, yellow, green, purple, and even orange. The only colour a sapphire cannot be is red, because red corundum is classified as ruby.
The most prized sapphires are known for their intense blue hue, often described as “cornflower blue” or “royal blue.” This iconic colour is a result of trace amounts of titanium and iron within the stone’s crystalline structure. However, the rarity of other colours, such as padparadscha sapphire (a unique pink-orange blend resembling the hues of a sunset) has made them highly sought after by collectors and experts.
Little-known facts
While sapphire is famous for its rich blue shades and royal associations, there are a few surprising facts about this gemstone that aren’t widely known.
- The Star Sapphire Effect: Some sapphires exhibit a rare phenomenon called *asterism*, where a star-shaped pattern appears on the stone’s surface when viewed under direct light. This is caused by needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile, which intersect in just the right way to create a star effect. Star sapphires are incredibly rare and often considered mystical due to their stunning visual effect.
- Sapphire in Technology: Beyond its beauty, sapphire has a very practical use. Synthetic sapphire is used in the manufacturing of high-durability glass for smartphones, watches, and even military-grade optical systems. Its hardness, second only to diamond on the Mohs scale, makes it incredibly scratch-resistant.
- Healing Properties and Mythology: In ancient times, people believed that sapphires had healing powers, particularly for eye diseases and mental clarity. It was also thought to attract blessings and bring peace of mind to the wearer. While modern science may not back these claims, sapphire continues to symbolize purity and wisdom.
Our sapphire engagement ring design
We have taken the timeless beauty of sapphire and elevated it into a modern-day classic with our custom-designed sapphire engagement ring. The latest one is a very striking ring, with an intense blue color that shines both in sunlight and in darkness. We paired it with 6 diamonds and forged it in 18K white gold. Perfect for the woman who has always dreamed of a blue sapphire, making it truly stand out. We know it will make her feel in harmony, and she will enjoy it for its longevity.
This design reflects the perfect balance between tradition and contemporary elegance, making it ideal if you are seeking something unique yet timeless. With sapphire being the gemstone of loyalty and love, it’s the perfect symbol for engagements, representing the deep and enduring connection between two people.
Apart from designing and crafting with the love to detail, we always aim for quality and durability. Ensuring it’s not just a ring, but a piece of art that will be cherished for generations.
Why choose sapphire?
Sapphires are not only beautiful; they are incredibly durable, making them ideal for an engagement rings that will last a “lifetime”. With a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphire is highly resistant to scratching and damage; second only to diamonds in terms of toughness. Whether you opt for a classic blue sapphire or one of the many fancy colours, this gem is an excellent choice for those looking for a ring that stands the test of time, both in style and strength.
Moreover, sapphire’s symbolism of fidelity and sincerity makes it especially meaningful for engagement rings. The deep blue hue has long been associated with trust and loyalty, essential values in any relationship. However there is no limit, it can also be designed within a pendant or earrings are very common treasure for sapphires.
