The Sapphire: September Birthstone, Zodiac Stone & Healing Properties

This September, we celebrate the sapphire as the birthstone. Prized for its rich blue hue, sapphires are said to promote truth, sincerity and faithfulness. They have been worn as jewellery for centuries and are a popular choice for engagement rings. The sapphire is also the zodiac stone for Virgos and Libra. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at this beautiful gemstone and explore its history, healing properties and different colours. We'll also showcase some of our favourite sapphire jewellery from the Latelita London collection.

 

What is the sapphire and where does it come from?

 

The sapphire is a gemstone that belongs to the mineral family of corundum. It is typically found in shades of blue, but can also be found in other colours including pink, yellow, orange and green. Sapphires are mined all over the world, with some of the most famous deposits coming from Kashmir in India and Sri Lanka.

 

Where does the word sapphire come from?

 

The name sapphire comes from the Greek word 'sappheiros', which means blue. In ancient times, sapphires were believed to have healing properties and were used to treat a variety of ailments including mental illness and epilepsy. Sapphires were also thought to bring good luck and protect those who wore them from harm.

 

The sapphire throughout history

 

The sapphire has been used in jewellery for centuries and is a popular choice for engagement rings. In the Middle Ages, sapphires were thought to symbolise heaven and were worn by priests and bishops. In more recent times, sapphires have been associated with royalty - in particular, Princess Diana's engagement ring, which featured a 12-carat sapphire surrounded by diamonds.

 

Sapphire the zodiac birthstone for Virgo and Libra

 

The sapphire is the zodiac stone for Virgo and Libra. It is said to promote truth, sincerity and faithfulness. Sapphires are also believed to have healing properties and are said to be helpful for treating mental illness, epilepsy and insomnia.

 

What colours do sapphires come in?

 

Sapphires come in a variety of colours, with the most popular being blue sapphires. Blue sapphires are said to symbolise wisdom, loyalty and trustworthiness. Other colours of sapphire include pink sapphires, which represent love and compassion; yellow sapphires, which represent happiness and good fortune; and green sapphires, which represent growth and vitality.

 

No matter what your birthstone or zodiac sign is, the sapphire is a beautiful gemstone that makes for stunning jewellery. In the Latelita London collection, you'll find a range of sapphire jewellery including necklaces, bracelets and rings.

 

If you're looking for a special piece of sapphire jewellery to add to your collection, we've got plenty of beautiful options to choose from. Our sapphire jewellery is perfect for September birthdays, Virgo and Libra zodiac signs, or anyone who loves the colour blue!

 

How to care for your sapphire jewellery

 

Sapphires are a durable gemstone and can withstand everyday wear. However, sapphires should be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush to remove any dirt or build-up. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the sapphire.

 

How to store you sapphire jewellery

 

To store your sapphire jewellery, wrap it in a soft cloth and place it in a jewellery box or pouch. Sapphires should be kept away from other gemstones to avoid scratching.

 

When wearing sapphire jewellery, take care not to expose it to extreme heat or cold, as this can cause the sapphire to crack. Avoid wearing sapphires while doing household chores or gardening, as they can be scratched by dirt or debris.

 

With proper care, your sapphire jewellery will last a lifetime.

 

Famous sapphires in history

 

Sapphires have been coveted by royalty and celebrities for centuries. Some of the most famous sapphires in history include:

 

The Star of India:

This blue sapphire weighs in at a whopping 530 carats and is the largest known star sapphire in the world. It was found in Sri Lanka in the 19th century and is now on display at the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

 

The Hope Sapphire:

This blue sapphire weighs 45.52 carats and was once owned by King Louis XIV of France. It is now on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

 

The Black Prince's Ruby:

This red sapphire is actually a spinel, but it has been mistaken for a ruby for centuries. It weighs 170 carats and is set in the Imperial State Crown of England.

 

The Blue Belle of Asia:

This blue sapphire weighs 421 carats and was once owned by Mogul Emperor Shah Jahan. It is now on display at the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

 

Sapphires are truly a gemstone fit for royalty. If you're looking for sapphire jewellery that will make you feel like a queen, browse the Latelita London collection today!

 

Famous people who have worn sapphires

 

Throughout history, sapphires have been worn by some of the most famous people in the world. Here are just a few of the most notable sapphire-wearers...

 

Princess Diana:

Perhaps the most famous sapphire-wearer of all time was Princess Diana. Her engagement ring, which featured a 12-carat sapphire surrounded by 14 diamonds, was later worn by her daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton.

 

Jackie Kennedy:

Jackie Kennedy's engagement ring featured a sapphire and diamond cluster design. After her husband's assassination, she wore the ring as a reminder of their love.

 

Elizabeth Taylor:

Elizabeth Taylor was known for her love of sapphires, and she owned several sapphire jewellery pieces throughout her life.