Sapphires for September

Sapphire, the birthstone for September, is a Gem Variety of the Mineral Corundum. It comes in a range of colours, not just blue. The most valuable is Kashmir Sapphire or Cornflower Blue Sapphire. Another extremely valuable form is the very rare, orange-pink Padparadschah. which displays a different color depending on its lighting. Yellow and pink Sapphire have recently become very popular, and are now often seen in jewellery. Sapphire is found in Kashmir, Madgascar, Australia, Ceylon and Brazil.

Sapphire often contains minor inclusions of tiny slender Rutile needles. When present, these inclusions decrease the transparency of a stone and are known as silk. When in dense, parallel groupings, these inclusions can actually enhance by allowing polished Sapphires to exhibit asterism. Sapphire gems displaying asterism are known as "Star Sapphire", and these can be highly prized. Star Sapphire exists in six ray stars, though twelve ray stars are also known.

Sapphire is a tough and durable gem, and the only natural gemstone harder than Sapphire is Diamond so it is ideal for jewellery. Despite this, care should still be taken to prevent fractures or chips from rough handling.

People once believed the core of the earth was a huge sapphire crystal, and along with fire the Ancient Greeks thought Prometheus stole a Sapphire from the Gods. It is said to promote forgiveness and a happy marriage so has traditionally been a popular choice for an engagement stone. I has been particularly fashionable since Prince Charles and Prince William used the same 18ct Sapphire for their proposals.

We have some extra special Sapphires for birthday presents this month. You can give a pair of lovely hand made 0.6 carat Sapphire studs for £49. We only have a limited range of stones so get in quickly. Only available instore.

As an alternative have a look at our lovely Iolite pendants too. Often mistaken for Sapphire, Iolite is a Clear fresh blue gemstone. Popular with the Vikings because of its clear colour at night it was often referred to as Water Sapphire because of its similarity with the Corundum.