As September arrives, we celebrate its stunning birthstones, each one holding a special charm and rich history. Sapphire dazzles with its spectrum of colours, ranging from sky blue to vibrant pink and yellow. Meanwhile, Lapis Lazuli captivates with its celestial blue hues.
Our gemstone experts here at Sennen Jewellery are eager to explore their fascinating stories and versatile beauty, sharing their expertise as we explore what makes these gems truly remarkable.
Whether you're born in September or simply admire these striking blue stones, let us guide you through their fascinating world, revealing why they continue to be beloved in jewellery collections worldwide.
September Birthstone: Key Points Summary
Physical and Chemical Properties: We explore blue sapphires and their varieties, including the rare green sapphire and versatile white sapphire.
Historical Background: Insights into the roles these gemstones, particularly the blue sapphire, have played across various cultures and their evolution into a symbol of nobility.
Styling Sapphire and Lapis: Discover how Sennen Jewellery incorporates these gemstones, particularly sapphire, in contemporary designs, from blue sapphire and diamond combinations, engagement rings and innovative ethical gold pieces.
Cultural and Symbolic Meaning: Explore the rich symbolism associated with sapphires and Lapis, and why they are cherished as the September birthstone.
Famous Sapphires and Legends: Tales of legendary sapphires and the iconic pieces of jewellery that have made history.
Physical Properties and Formation
Sapphire, the September birthstone, is a gem variety of the mineral corundum, known for its impressive hardness, rated 9 on the Mohs scale, making it second only to diamond in hardness.
This gemstone is not limited to its iconic blue variety; it also appears in a spectrum of other colours like pink, yellow, green sapphire, and the rare red corundum, which is exclusively classified as ruby due to its deep red hue.
The presence of trace elements such as iron and titanium contributes to the sapphire’s vibrant blue colour through the process of lattice diffusion, while chromium imparts a pink colour to some sapphires.
Sapphires in different colours, including the lesser-known but equally stunning white sapphire, which lacks the colour-causing trace elements, are all considered sapphires due to their shared corundum composition.
White sapphires, offering a clear and often more affordable alternative to diamonds, are particularly valued for their pure, colourless appearance, which is achieved when there is an absence of trace elements that colour other sapphires.
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of the Heavens
Unlike the structured formation of sapphires, Lapis is a rock, composed mainly of lazurite, which gives it a deep celestial blue, often speckled with pyrite that mimics a starry sky.
Coloured Sapphires
Sapphires are all made of the same mineral, corundum, but the variety of colours beyond the traditional royal blue is due to trace elements present within the crystal structure during their formation. For example:
Blue sapphires contain iron and titanium, which are responsible for their deep, rich blue tones.
Pink sapphires owe their hue to the presence of chromium, similar to rubies, but in lower concentrations that result in a lighter pink rather than red. They offer a soft yet vibrant alternative to blue sapphire and are popular in more feminine designs.
Orange sapphires owe their warm hue to traces of chromium and iron, lending them a fiery glow. When incorporated into jewellery, these gemstones exhibit a vibrant and captivating brilliance, reminiscent of a sunset.
Yellow sapphires are coloured by trace amounts of iron that do not contribute to the blue colouring. When set in jewellery, they provide a sunny, cheerful hue that captures the light brilliantly
Green sapphires come from a combination of iron and titanium traces within the crystal. These beautiful stones are perfect for pieces that aim for an earthy aesthetic.
White sapphire is essentially pure corundum without the presence of trace elements that impart colour to other sapphires. White sapphires are prized for their clarity and subtle beauty, making them a favored choice in various types of jewellery, embodying elegance and sophistication. They are a fantastic alternative to diamonds, providing the same sparkle at a more accessible price point.
The History and Symbolism of the September Birthstones
Sapphire: Royal and Divine Connotations
Historically, sapphires were cherished by royalty and clergy as symbols of wisdom and purity. They were often worn as protections against harm and envy.
Sapphires were believed to protect the wearers from evil and poisoning during the Middle Ages. Historically, sapphires have decorated the robes and jewellery of royalty and clergy, symbolizing wisdom, virtue, and good fortune.
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of Ancient Knowledge
Lapis Lazuli was highly treasured by the Egyptian Pharaohs, used in jewellery, amulets, and the famous burial mask of Tutankhamun.
Throughout history, Lapis has been associated with strength and courage, royalty, and gods, making it a highly influential stone in human civilization.
Lapis Lazuli has been used in some of the most significant art pieces, including as a pigment in Renaissance paintings, where its value sometimes surpassed that of gold.
Styling September's Birthstones: Sennen Jewellery's Recommendations
Sapphire in Contemporary Jewellery Design
At Sennen Jewellery, we recommend sapphire for its exceptional hardness and vibrant colours, making it a top choice for engagement rings and other fine jewellery.
The resilience of sapphire ensures it can withstand daily wear, which makes it ideal for settings in rings, earrings and necklaces that are frequently worn.
The ring pictured was crafted by Francesca Stella in Cornwall, and is a one of a kind handmade ring made with Single Origin Mine 18ct gold and a mesmerizing star sapphire.
Lapis Lazuli's Artistic Appeal
We at Sennen Jewellery also adore the artistic appeal of Lapis. Its rich, celestial blue interspersed with golden flecks of pyrite gives each piece a unique, eye-catching appearance. Lapis Lazuli pairs exquisitely with both gold and silver, but in our opinion silver coloured metals really show it off to it's full potential.
We recommend Lapis Lazuli for those seeking statement pieces or artisan jewellery that emphasizes the stone’s mystical and celestial qualities. Whether set in simple silver earrings or a more elaborate white gold necklace, Lapis brings a touch of the heavens or the deep blue sea to any outfit.
Famous and Valuable Sapphire Jewellery
Sapphire, with its deep blue elegance, has been central to numerous legendary jewellery pieces, particularly those associated with British royalty.
The Princess Diana Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring
One of the most iconic pieces of sapphire jewellery is the engagement ring that was given to Lady Diana Spencer by Prince Charles in 1981. This ring features a 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds, set in 18k white gold.
It was created by the crown jeweller Garrard, and inspired by a sapphire and diamond cluster brooch, a wedding present from Prince Albert to Queen Victoria. This same ring made headlines again in 2010 when Prince William proposed to Catherine Middleton with it, and it is now known as the Duchess of Cambridge's engagement ring, symbolizing royal continuity and capturing the public's fascination.
Queen Elizabeth II’s Sapphire Collection
Queen Elizabeth II had an impressive collection of sapphire jewellery, which included the famous Sapphire Jubilee Brooch, a gift to mark her 65 years on the throne. Again made by crown jewellers, Garrard, this piece features a large, 118.88ct royal blue Burmese sapphire surrounded by Garrard's signature diamond cluster settings.
The Queen also owned the Victorian Suite of Sapphire and Diamond, which includes a necklace and earrings originally bought by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1840. This suite was later enhanced with a matching bracelet and ring.
Sapphire remains a favoured precious stone in many collections due to its symbolism of wisdom, virtue, and good fortune.
The Star of India
One of the most famous sapphires is the
Sapphire Jubilee Brooch, a gift to mark her 65 years on the throne. Made by royal jewellery designers, Garrard, a 563-carat star sapphire displayed at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. This greyish blue stone is known for its size and the striking star pattern visible on both sides of the stone.
The Legend of the Giant Sapphire
According to Greek mythology, Prometheus, the Titan who gave fire to humanity, was punished by being chained to a rock. In certain versions of the tale, this rock is described as a giant sapphire. After Hercules liberated Prometheus, a fragment of the stone remained on his finger, believed to be the origin of the first sapphire.
September Birthstone Jewellery
The main choices for the September birthstone, Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli, offer much more than stunning visual appeal. Rooted deeply in history and enriched with cultural significance, these gemstones bring a depth of character to any piece of jewellery.
Whether set in a traditional vintage piece or a modern design, Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli continue to capture the hearts of jewellery lovers everywhere as the quintessential September birthstone. Visit Sennen Jewellery today to find how this timeless birthstone can enhance your collection.
Our Top Picks of Sapphire and Created Sapphire Jewellery
FAQs: September Birthstone
Why are Blue Sapphires considered a symbol of royalty?Â
Sapphire has been associated with wisdom and royalty due to its rich blue colour, which has historically been linked to celestial and divine qualities. Sapphires have decorated various royal and religious ornaments throughout history, reinforcing its regal symbolism.
Who Owns Princess Diana's Sapphire Jewellery Now?
Jewellery belonging to the late Princess Diana is currently split between her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. Some pieces have been inherited by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, who is married to Prince William. Other pieces have been sold at auction, with proceeds going to charity.
Is there an alternative birthstone for those born September?Â
Jacinth and Chrysoprase are alternative birthstones for people born in September. Jacinth, with its fiery orange hues, symbolizes healing and protection, while Chrysoprase is valued for its vivid green colour and is believed to attract abundance and joy.
What is the birthstone for Virgo?
For those born under the zodiac sign Virgo (August 23 - September 22), the primary birthstone is sapphirer. Virgos who are born in August might also resonate with peridot, the traditional August birthstone, known for its shimmering green hues that symbolize strength and vitality.
Sapphire, especially in its blue varieties, symbolizes wisdom, virtue, and holiness, aligning well with Virgo's characteristics of intelligence, meticulousness, and purity.
Which sapphire colour is the most valuable?
Among the various colours of sapphires, the blue variety, specifically the rich, vivid blue sapphires known as "cornflower" or "Kashmir" blue, are generally the most valuable. These sapphires, celebrated as the September birthstone, feature a deep, velvety blue that is highly sought after and often commands the highest prices in the gem market. The rarity and unique saturation of this blue make it especially prized among collectors and enthusiasts.
While the classic blue sapphires are typically the most valuable, other colours like the intense pink sapphire, vibrant yellow sapphires, and the rare green sapphire also hold significant value and appeal. Each of these colours has unique qualities that can attract specific tastes and preferences in jewellery.
White sapphire, though less common, offers a clear, pure alternative that appeals to those looking for something different from the traditional blue.
Regardless of the colour, the worth of a sapphire in any of these hues also depends on its clarity, cut, and carat weight, making each stone unique. As the birthstone for those born in September, sapphires of all shades continue to be a cherished choice for jewellery, representing wisdom and nobility.
Interested in the Birthstones for other months? Take a look at our guide here: Your Guide to Birthstones (sennenjewellery.com)
Article Sources: Jewels of Diana, Princess of Wales - Wikipedia
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