Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum. The word "sapphire" is from the Greek word “sappheiros”, which means blue. Historians believe this originally referred to lapis lazuli, but later evolved to define the gemstone that we know today. With a rating of 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, sapphires are the second hardest mineral next to diamond, which tops the list at 10. This hardness makes gem-quality sapphires extremely desirable in jewelry production of every type.
Most people tend to think of sapphires as blue, but there are many different colors of sapphire. These are commonly referred to as “fancy sapphires” like green, purple, white, or yellow sapphires. The one exception is the red sapphire, which is called “ruby,” known for its brilliant and deep red color (yes, rubies are actually sapphires!).
Sapphires of good quality can command high prices, as they are only found in a handful of places around the world (Sri Lanka, Kashmir, and Burma are perhaps the most well known regions). Of course blue is the color most associated with sapphires, and Sri Lanka has long been known the be the most consistent producer of these highly prized gemstones. Good quality blue sapphires are not too dark, and not too light, but rather strike a balance that highlights the intensity of its color.
While sapphire is the birthstone for September, the Zodiac has the sapphire as the main gemstone for Taurus (those born April 20 - May 20).
Make sure to check out all of the incredible sapphire rings, pendants, bracelets, and earrings that we have available both online and in our store. Whether it’s a birthday treat for yourself or a loved one, you will be able to find the perfect gift for that special day!
At 423 carats, and about the size of an egg, the Logan Sapphire can be seen at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Surrounded by about 16 carats of round-cut diamonds, it is one of the world’s largest faceted blue sapphires. Mrs. John A. (Polly) Logan donated it to the museum in 1960…what a gift!
In 1934 John D. Rockefeller bought was what later to be known as the Rockefeller Sapphire. It is a 62.02 carat faceted blue sapphire, in a rectangular step cut, mounted in a diamond ring. The current listing price for this one of a kind sapphire is a cool $3,031,000, but could fetch as much as 5 million at auction!
Clean your sapphire in warm soapy water; rinse and dry with a soft cloth, and remember to store your sapphire pieces in a fabric lined jewelry box, or wrap in a soft cloth to keep scratches at bay. Avoid the usual household chemicals that can corrode gemstones like bleach and acids.
