Long before people understood chemical composition and could, therefore, classify gemstones into groups, species or variety, color was the primary trait used to group minerals. As a result there were very broad groups into which many gemstones with very different characteristics were lumped together. Sapphire is one of these gemstones. The name sapphire comes via Middle French and Latin, and is mainly attributed to an Ancient Greek word, sáppheiros, meaning ‘precious stone’, though it may ultimately be traced back to a Sanskrit word, sanipriya, meaning ‘dark-colored stone’. It is this last point of reference that gives us a look at the very general methods of classifying gemstones in ancient times: the word sapphire was used to describe any dark-colored stone of value, usually lapis lazuli, azurite or the deep-blue corundum that typifies what we popularly think of when we see or hear the word sapphire. However, as we know today, thanks to gemology, sapphires are not contained only to this color; in fact, they come in all colors across the visible spectrum – even grey! The only color that does not apply to sapphires is ruby-red because those are…rubies (sapphire and ruby are in the same family – corundum).

So, while the word sapphire was used in ancient times to refer to a large body of dark-colored (usually blue) stones, it is today used to refer to a large body of colored corundum that ranges from orange hues to yellows, greens, purples and, of course, blues. And, while they do recognize that the deep-blue variety of sapphire is the most popular, they encourage you to choose from the wide range of colors when selecting a September birthstone for you or your loved one. So, what are the colors of the September birthstone? As previously mentioned, sapphire is the name of any color of corundum (aluminium oxide) except red; at least the blood-red that is strictly reserved for ruby. Though colorless sapphires are rare, they were once used as diamond imitations; today they are commonly used as accent stones (small, simple-cut stones set around a center stone to increase its brilliance). Sapphires are split into two main color categories: the traditional (blue and colorless), and fancy (pink and purple, orange and yellow, green, black, etc.).

History of the Sapphire

The Ancient Persians knew the sapphire as ‘The Celestial Stone’ and believed that the world rested on a giant sapphire pedestal that painted the sky blue with its reflection. The theme of sapphire as a connection with the divine and heaven continues through Ancient Greek and Roman mythology and into Christendom. The Greeks associated sapphire with Apollo, the prophetic deity of the Oracle at Delphi. Worshippers seeking help and advice from the Oracle would wear sapphire to garner Apollo’s favor and open their ‘third eye’, making it easier to understand the prophesy. Moreover, it was a commonly held belief among ancient Greeks and Romans that wearing blue sapphires would protect one from envy, infidelity and harm.

What is the significance of the September birthstone?

Sapphire symbolizes nobility, truth, sincerity, and faithfulness; hence its age-old appropriation by royalty who wished to embody and exemplify those virtues. Moreover, sapphire is believed to bring gifts of fulfillment, joy, prosperity, inner peace and beauty. Traditionally, the power to bring harmony between lovers, as well as peace between adversaries, was attributed to the sapphire. Additionally, sapphires were said to bring calm to the wearer in uncomfortable social situations, as well as expose frauds. Anyone embroiled in a legal matter could benefit from wearing a sapphire piece of jewelry. In astrology, the blue sapphire is connected to the planet Saturn and Saturday, while the white (or colorless) sapphire is associated with Venus and represents Friday, the day dedicated to that planet. Sapphire’s symbolism extends to springtime, as well, and in differing zodiacal systems, this gemstone covers both Taurus and Gemini. Today, sapphire is still a stone of wisdom, learning, mental acuity and psychic activation. Its pure blue color is associated with order and healing of the mind, lending strength and focus, and an ability to see truths and to utilize that knowledge. The blue of sapphire represents the throat and third-eye chakras, which are the seats of communication and awareness, respectively.
It is thought that meditating with sapphire in your hand can help you get wonderful inspiration and ideas that’ll support your creativity and expressions of power. Perhaps this is why many creators and artists prefer sapphire’s properties and effects. The notion of a sapphire engagement ring, which symbolizes sincerity and faithfulness, was made popular in 1981 when Prince Charles gave Princess Diana a blue sapphire engagement ring that she wore while she captivated the world. Today, that ring is proudly worn by Prince William’s bride Kate Middleton. Many celebrities, including Penelope Cruz and Elizabeth Hurley, have followed this fashion of wearing a sapphire engagement ring, wedding them to the ancient virtues symbolized by this precious gemstone.

The healing properties of sapphires

When it comes to sapphire as the September birthstone, this gemstone is thought to have a special power for protecting those born in September.
The sapphire shields those born in this month against negative thoughts and brings a positive structure and order to their life. Sapphire possesses strong protective properties which resonate on sacred spheres; virtually all religions in the world speak of the September birthstone with respect and awe. It makes an excellent protective talisman, especially when there’s a risk of psychic, mental, or emotional attack.
This precious gem strengthens and awakens the link between the higher and the physical self. Wearing sapphire jewelry frequently helps you develop a stronger bond with your spiritual team, including the healing guides, spirit guides, guardian angels, and even passed loved ones. It can assist you in times of change by providing clearer visions you need to reach your dreams and complete your goals.
Sapphire’s power to transmute negative thoughts and energy also makes it highly effective for earth and chakra healing. Regarding sapphire and physical health, this gem can improve your bone density, as well as overall strength.

This excellent gemstone can also support good physical strength for people who’ve undergone reconstructive surgery where titanium is commonly used, promoting post-surgical healing while providing the energy to calm inflammation. Sapphire can also be useful for those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. It helps them by stimulating both the pituitary gland and the thyroid gland. Moreover, it revitalizes the auric field and detoxifies the skin. The September birthstone is also known for quelling fevers, stanching nosebleeds, reducing inflammation and curing infection. Many have reported positive results in using sapphire to heal burns. Overall, sapphire accelerates all healing processes by influencing the willpower to get well.

Sapphire is practically the perfect birthstone. Not only are endless color varieties to choose from, the incredible durability of sapphire makes it ideal for any use in jewelry. People who have a September birthday are truly lucky to have such a meaningful and versatile birthstone! In all its celestial hues, sapphire emerges as a holy and magnificent birthstone. The blue color is a clear-cut reflection of the colors of the sky and a symbol of the virtues of life. Wearing this precious gemstone will not only calm your emotions, but it will also bring more respect, trust, faith, and patience to your life.