My beautiful blue birthstone

Sapphire, the birthstone for September, has traditionally symbolized sincerity, truth, faithfulness and nobility. It has also, like other gems, been the subject of legend and folklore.

In ancient Greece and Rome, kings and queens were convinced that blue Sapphires protected their owners from envy and harm. During the Middle Ages, the clergy wore blue Sapphires to symbolize heaven and ordinary folks thought the gem attracted heavenly blessings.

Ancient Persians believed that the earth was supported by a huge blue sapphire pedestal and that it was the reflection of this pedestal that coloured the sky blue.

In Hindu mythology, the Kalpavriksha is a wish-fulfilling tree, described as being made up of precious stones. The fruits of the tree are Rubies, the base of the trunk is Diamond and the roots of the tree are made of Sapphires.

From the 12th century onwards, Sapphire began to be associated with the Clergy. This was in part due to an ancient belief that the Ten Commandments were given to Moses on a slab of Sapphire. It is now believed that it actually referred to Lapis Lazuli.

Star Sapphire or "Asteria" was especially shrouded in mystical properties because of the "star" that is visible in the gem. It was known to be a guiding gem, warding off evil.

The Star of India is a 563-carat Star Sapphire with a fascinating history. In 1900 it was part of an exhibition at the Paris Exposition along with "other most spectacular gems". This was commissioned by J.P. Morgan, an American banker who donated it afterwards to The American Museum.

In 1964 a gang led by Jack Murphy, stole The Star of India and other gems worth ( $3 million in today's money), from the museum. The gang was apprehended two days later and the gems were found in a Miami bus station locker. The gems were returned to the museum where it is to this day.

Precious Sapphires are part of European Royal Jewellery Collections as part of the inheritance from early kings and queens.

Thought Sapphires only came in blue? Sapphires come in different shades of blue as well as in a variety of beautiful colours, so if it is your birthstone, why not choose a shade of blue or a colour you prefer?

Sapphires measure 9 on Moh's scale of hardness, just below diamonds which make them the perfect choice for an engagement ring. They are expensive, but less so than diamonds which price is regulated.

You can choose a unique sapphire for your engagement ring or birthstone ring.

Some modern jewellery designs with sapphire.

Princess Carlene of Monaco sporting a Diamond and Sapphire tiara "The Ocean Tiara", designed especially for her.

Even though we no longer believe in all the legends and lore surrounding gemstones, I do feel an affinity towards my birthstone. I love to wear it and it does not matter to me if it is natural or simulated Sapphires.

Enjoy wearing Sapphires or just admire this gift of nature.

Wishing you love and kindness till we chat again

Loving kindness.

Shirley Rose

Sources: www.gia.edu, www.firemountaingems.com, www.diamondsfactory.co.uk, www.thenaturalsapphirecompany.com

Pictures from Pinterest