The September birthstone is sapphire, a traditionally blue stone that also comes in virtually every color. This precious gemstone is a versatile, beloved jewel with centuries of uses and meanings.
The month of September comes from the Latin septem, meaning “seven,” because it was the seventh month in the calendar back when March started the year.
September often represents the start of autumn, a new school year, and harvesting crops. United Nations holidays in September celebrate charity, democracy, and world peace.
Today, September symbolizes abundance, service, and self-reflection.
Does the month’s birthstone reflect these ideals? Find out today as we cover the history, meanings, properties, and powers of the September birthstone sapphire. We’ll also touch on alternative September birthstones and gift ideas!
Pictured above: Faceted colored sapphire ring
Sapphire is the main birthstone for September, but is sapphire the only birthstone for September? It’s definitely the main birthstone, but birthstones have changed over time.
The earliest birthstone lists, inspired by Biblical lists of 12 gemstones, had peridot for September and sapphire for April.
Modern formalized lists began in 1870, when Tiffany & Co published a pamphlet of birthstone poems, with sapphire for September.
The first official standardized list was created in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America), followed by a 1937 list by the British National Association of Goldsmiths. Both designated sapphire for September.
However, the most recent 2013 United Kingdom list has 2 September birthstones: sapphire and lapis lazuli.
Funny enough, the word “sapphire” was originally used for lapis lazuli and other blue gemstones.
Speaking of history, let’s travel back to sapphire’s legendary past!
Pictured above: A pair of Byzantine (circa 500 to 700 AD) gold earrings with pearl and sapphire stones; Discovered in 1902 at Karavas, Cyprus; Now displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York | Image credit: Unforth, Flickr, CC-BY-SA-2.0
The oldest known sapphire source is Sri Lanka, based on sapphire jewelry dated from 600 to 275 BC. Sri Lankans saw sapphires as celestial gifts and the mines as sacred.
An ancient Persian legend claimed Earth sat on a huge sapphire and its reflection made the sky blue. They called sapphire lazvard, meaning “having the color of clear sky.”
Sapphires were connected to the sun god Apollo in ancient Greece.
Ever heard of Prometheus, the Titan god chained to a rock while an eagle ate his liver every day? One version says the rock was sapphire, and Prometheus kept a piece of it, said to be the first sapphire gemstone, on a ring made from his chain after Hercules freed him.
Medieval clergy wore blue sapphires to represent heaven, chastity, and spiritual devotion, like the huge sapphire amulet worn by devout Roman Emperor Charlemagne.
On that topic…
Mentions of sapphire in Judaism and Christianity include:
Seal of Solomon: Legendary inscribed sapphire signet ring of Israelite king Solomon said to grant him supernatural powers
Ten Commandments: Fundamental principles given by God to the prophet Moses, said to be etched onto sapphire tablets in rabbinical Judaism
High Priest’s Breastplate: Sanctified “breastplate of judgment” worn by High Priest of the Israelites and adorned with 12 gems, sapphire being the fifth
New Jerusalem or Zion: Utopian afterlife society described in a prophetic vision as having twelve gem “foundation stones,” one being sapphire
Mentions of the September birthstone in Islam include:
Religious Rings: Worn traditionally by the Shi’a and Imams to indicate being a believer, inspired by the prophet Muhammad’s signet ring; Imam narrations say sapphire rings dispel poverty
Seventh Heaven: Dar-us-Salam, the level of peace, last of seven “levels” of heavenly paradise, described in the Quran as having valleys of pearls and sapphires
In Hinduism, sapphires are prominent in Vedic astrology, where certain gemstones are believed to boost the positive effects or diminish the negative effects of different planet placements in one’s birth chart.
Blue sapphire is associated with Saturn, the planet of responsibility and career. Yellow sapphire is tied to Jupiter, the planet of success and personal growth. White sapphire can substitute for diamond as a stone for Venus.
Pictured above: Hand-colored lithograph of Queen Victoria's Imperial State Crown, early-mid 19th century | Image credit: British School, Public domain
Royals wearing sapphire dates back to ancient kings and queens of Rome and Greece.
Some famous examples of royal British sapphire crowns are:
Belgian (or Victorian or George VI) Sapphire Tiara: Sapphire & diamond tiara created from Princess Louise of Belgium’s necklace, purchased by Queen Elizabeth II in 1963 and converted to match George VI Victorian Suite
St. Edward’s Crown: Oldest and largest British crown, set with 444 gemstones including St. Edward’s Sapphire and Stuart Sapphire; Original crown worn by medieval king St. Edward the Confessor (with sapphire from his ring); Current version made in 1661 for Charles II (adding his Stuart Sapphire); Only worn during coronations since 1911
Imperial State Crown: Contains St. Edward’s Sapphire, part of British Crown Jewels; Made for King George VI’s coronation in 1937; Worn by new king or queen when leaving coronation and attending State Openings of Parliament
Pictured above: Replica of Lady Diana Spencer's sapphire engagement ring | Image credit: Ann Porteus from Tasmania, Australia; Flickr; CC-BY-SA-2.0
Some famous examples of royal British sapphire jewelry are
Prince Albert Brooch: Sapphire and diamond brooch set in gold, given to Queen Victoria II by Prince Albert in 1840; Worn by Princess Diana of Wales for wedding-day “something blue” in 1981
George VI Victorian Suite: Sapphire & diamond necklace and earrings, largest sapphire later removed and made into pendant; Created in 1850 and given by King George VI to daughter Elizabeth in 1947
Princess Diana’s Choker Necklace: Sapphire & diamond clasp with 7 pearl strands; Clasp adapted from brooch given to Princess Diana of Wales by Queen Elizabeth II
Princess Diana’s Engagement Ring: Garrard ring with sapphire center stone & diamonds, inspired by Prince Albert Brooch; Presented by Prince Charles in 1981; Presented by Prince William to Kate Middleton in 2010
Speaking of engagement rings, did you know sapphires were the norm before diamonds? Popularized by nobility in the 1400-1500s, engagement rings usually had sapphire center stones until diamonds became standard.
The sapphire September birthstone is a variety of the aluminum oxide mineral corundum. The other variety is ruby, both being precious gemstones. But wait, is ruby a September birthstone? Traditionally, ruby is a July birthstone.
These minerals are the second hardest after diamond, ranking at 9 on the Mohs scale.
Corundum stones form in metamorphic rocks or aluminum-rich, silica-free igneous rocks. Impurities and inclusions present during formation lead to sapphire’s varied appearances.
So, what is the September birthstone’s color?
Pictured above: Faceted peacock / mermaid sapphire
Throughout history, “sapphire” has been synonymous with “blue.” However, the September birthstone’s color actually includes every hue except red — that’s ruby.
Corundum is allochromatic, so colors come from impurities. The impurities behind each shade are listed below. You can learn more about each sapphire color at the articles linked:
White – No (or minimal) impurities
Blue – Iron & titanium (more titanium means darker shades)
Pink – Chromium (small amounts)
Purple – Vanadium or combination of chromium, titanium, & ferrous iron
Yellow – Ferric iron
Orange – Chromium & iron impurities or exposure to irradiation (natural or lab-induced)’
Green – Ferric iron & ferrous iron
Black – Iron & high titanium
Brown – Iron & sometimes titanium
Pictured above: Faceted purple sapphire
Additionally, there are some notable varieties of this September birthstone with gorgeous appearances:
Color-Change Sapphire: Usually color-changing from blue or purple in daylight to violet or reddish-purple under incandescence
Padparadscha Sapphire: Combination of pink & orange, originally from Sri Lanka; Among rarest & most valuable types
Peacock or Mermaid Sapphires: Blue and green with 50-50 hue ratio
Bi-Colored or Parti-Colored Sapphires: Distinct colors in different sections, usually green & yellow
Star Sapphires: Display multi-rayed “star” of reflected from optical effect called asterism caused by parallel inclusion bundles of rutile or diaspore
Trapiche Sapphires: Display 6-rayed star-like pattern internally that resembles wheel-spokes due to carbonaceous inclusions setting between growth zones
Color is just one factor when grading the September birthstone’s quality.
Pictured above: Faceted yellow sapphire
The value of sapphire birthstones depends on the color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Treatments and formation (synthetic vs. natural) also play a role.
The top sapphire value factor is color. Blue is most popular but also most valuable, particularly cornflower blue.
Bright saturation and medium to deep tone are best. Kashmir blue, Padparadscha, and bright pink hues are most valuable. Black is least valuable.
Sapphires must be cut to maximize pleochroism, color-zoning, sparkle, size, and optical effects (if present). The most popular faceted cuts are round, oval, and cushion. Emerald, marquise, and pear shapes are more valuable.
Optically phenomenal stones like sapphires must be cut as cabochons. The stone may be carved or beaded, too.
Pictured above: Faceted Kashmir sapphire
Sapphires have Type II clarity, so minor visible inclusions are common, but higher value goes to stones with fewer visible inclusions. Some sapphire clarity grades follow standard diamond grading — IF for best to I3 for worst.
The best sapphires have VVS clarity, but most are VS to SI.
The exception to inclusions-lowering-value rule is when inclusions cause asterism or a velvety look (e.g. Kashmir sapphires).
Different colors of sapphire September birthstones range in carat weight. Quality tends to decrease in larger sizes, so the most valuable color (blue) with good quality and high carat weight is exceptional and rare.
Price-per-carat rates will increase at each September birthstone’s size interval, and options over 5 carats are significantly pricey.
Around 95 percent of sapphires are heated to improve color and clarity, so heat treatments don’t usually affect value much.
Other potential treatments include diffusion, irradiation, or flux fracture-healing. Avoid sapphire birthstones with thin-film coating, fillings, or oil treatments.
Lab-grown synthetic sapphires have gained popularity among buyers looking for more ethical or affordable gem alternatives.
Value-wise, lab-grown sapphires cost up to $10,000 less per carat than their natural counterparts.
Pictured above: Blue star sapphire ring with accent diamonds
Today, the September birthstone’s meaning is often one of wisdom, loyalty, and faith. (Read more about each sapphire color’s meaning in our Sapphire Info Guide.)
Some interpretations of sapphire’s meaning have been more prominent over time:
In ancient times, priests and magicians believed sapphires helped them make and interpret predictions about the future. Ancient Greeks wore sapphire to visit the oracle at Delphi, believing the September birthstone connected them to spirits.
Alchemists, astrologers, and sorcerers also used sapphire’s magical properties, sometimes for accessing their “third eye.”
Many cultures see blue sapphire as heavenly and sacred. Interpretations of its shine range from the stone not shining on corrupt wearers to dimming if one’s partner was cheating.
Another common belief is that sapphires dispel evil and attract divine favor.
Some Muslims believe blue sapphire brings its wearer success, peace, and enlightenment and protects them from curses.
Some Christians view star sapphires (pictured above) as representing faith, hope, and destiny.
Pictured above: Blue sapphire engagement ring
One nickname for sapphire is “Stone of Commitment.” September birthstone engagement rings are thought to represent fidelity and everlasting love.
One saying goes: “Married in September’s golden glow, smooth and serene your life will go.”
Already married? Sapphire is the traditional 5th and 45th wedding anniversary gem! Plus, according to The Knot, September is currently the most common wedding month.
As a healing stone, some of the September birthstone’s physical powers popular over time include:
Poison antidote
Increases strength
Benefits the eyes
Boosts immune system
Fever treatment
Emotionally, sapphires are believed to be calming, boost confidence, and facilitate peace between enemies or quarreling lovers.
Pictured above: Lapis lazuli earrings
Sapphire isn’t the only September birthstone. Ancient birthstone lists actually designated peridot for September instead of August.
Another option for September birthstone jewelry is lapis lazuli, an opaque deep blue gem with golden speckling.
What is Virgo’s birthstone? Ruled by Mercury, September-born Virgos (before September 23) can benefit from planetary stones for Mercury like fluorite or aventurine.
What crystal is for Libra? Ruled by Venus, September-born Libras (from September 1 to 22) might love the Venus stone white sapphire. Other great Libra birthstones include ametrine, peridot, and morganite.
Did you know September birthdays are the most common in the US? According to CDC and SSA data, September 9 takes the top spot.
Chances are, you have a loved one born in September if you aren’t a September baby yourself. If you are, you could even gift a September birthstone ring to celebrate Mother’s Day!
Other September birthstone gift ideas:
Personalized birthstone pendant
Necklace with their birthstone and your own
Minimalist stackable birthstone ring
Bracelet with birthstone charm
Birthstone themed candle
Trinket dish decorated with birthstone
You could even combine the September birthstone and flower — aster or morning glory — in customized jewelry. Like sapphire, aster symbolizes wisdom, love, and everlasting bonds. Morning glory also symbolizes everlasting love, along with resilience.
Pictured above: Gold earrings with orange, purple, and green sapphires with white accent diamonds
Sapphires are one of the most enduring, legendary gemstones. Though their blue form is most popular, these crystals offer a range of hues and options perfect for any September birthstone jewelry!
Find traditional and alternative September birthstones from our hundreds of gemstones available!
隨著炎熱的夏日逐漸消逝到清爽的早晨,秋天的樹葉鋪滿街道,閃閃發光的天藍色寶石標誌著季節的轉換。九月播下秋分的種子,帶來新的開始、恢復和焦點。還有什麼寶石比九月生日石藍寶石更能像徵這個過渡階段?
藍寶石是現存最受歡迎的珠寶之一。幾個世紀以來,他們標誌性的矢車菊藍色色調為皇家宮廷和貴族家庭的大廳增光添彩。可以理解,藍寶石像徵著智慧、誠信和力量。
與蔚藍的海洋深處相匹配,公眾對這件非凡的寶藏的崇拜是當之無愧的。讓我們深入了解九月生日石的含義、歷史和象徵意義。
您知道藍寶石是四大寶石之一嗎?沒錯:它們是與鑽石、紅寶石和祖母綠並駕齊驅的珠寶。
這些珍貴的藍色寶石已經存在了幾個世紀。 藍寶石是所有生日石日曆都認可的官方九月生日石。
為什麼藍寶石是九月的生日石?要回答這個問題,我們需要探索藍寶石的意義和象徵意義。
看,“藍寶石”一詞來自拉丁語“隔膜”,翻譯為數字 7。您可能想知道為什麼公曆中的第九個月以數字七命名,並且有一個很好的解釋。
根據羅馬曆法,在公元前 45 年採用儒略歷之前,人們一直在計時。這個原始系統錯誤地計算了一個太陽年的真實長度,只有 10 個月。根據這個時間表,九月是一年中的第七個月。
直到公元前 703 年,國王努瑪·普姆皮利烏斯 (Numa Pmpilius) 才將前兩個月納入日曆,將九月推遲到第九個月。
由於九的拉丁詞是“Novem”,您可以想像為準確起見完全重命名最初的十個月所需的重組工作。
九月生日石的含義來自兩個起源的結合:拉丁語和希臘語。拉丁詞“saphirus”和希臘詞“Sapheiros”的相似之處在於它們都代表藍色。
由於藍寶石最著名的顏色是藍色,因此它的同名也代表了它的顏色。然而,藍寶石有多種顏色。事實上,您可以在彩虹的每一種顏色中找到藍寶石,但只有一個除外:紅色。
那是因為紅色藍寶石實際上是紅寶石!
沿著歷史的線索追溯到古代,我們看到藍寶石在各個世代和文明中的重要性——從聖經時代到今天。
世界上最著名的藍寶石之一落入近代歷史,當時查爾斯王子送給他美麗的新娘一枚引人注目的藍寶石戒指。戴安娜王妃贏得了全世界的心。
在她不幸去世後,當威廉王子將這件神聖的傳家寶送給他的準新娘凱特·米德爾頓公爵夫人時,她心愛的藍寶石珠寶成為了過去與現在的交匯點。
有四個地點負責採購全球藍寶石供應:
澳大利亞:最大的藍寶石礦在新南威爾士州和昆士蘭州
斯里蘭卡:一個創造了“印度洋珠寶盒”的地方肯定會提供一系列令人驚嘆的生動寶石,包括藍色和白色藍寶石
緬甸:摩谷地區供應飽和度最高的藍寶石,稱為“緬甸藍寶石”,還有它們的姊妹寶石紅寶石和其他引人注目的寶石,包括橄欖石和玉石。
克什米爾:由於 1881 年的喜馬拉雅山滑坡,克什米爾南部地區出現了藍寶石礦床。然而,生產放緩,現在唯一的克什米爾紫色藍寶石
我們已經介紹了藍寶石的起源、歷史和意義,但這些珍貴的珠寶象徵著什麼?
在古代,藍寶石代表著配偶所期望的善良美德,包括誠實、純潔和忠誠。這就是藍寶石成為精美訂婚或週年紀念禮物的原因。戰士們對這顆寶石的屬性有著如此強烈的信仰,以至於他們在開始戰鬥之前將它們送給了他們的妻子,希望這種魅力能激發忠誠。
藍寶石的一個流行暱稱是“天體之石”。任何猜測為什麼?在古代波斯,人們將藍寶石視為與神性和天堂的聯繫。在羅馬和希臘神話中,藍寶石將其浸藍的筆觸描繪在天空中。
藍寶石在宗教中的盛行是如此突出,以至於十誡被刻在石板中。石頭是用什麼做的?當然是藍寶石!
九月生日石為兩個星座增光添彩:
生日在 9 月 1 日至 22 日之間的處女座
生日在 9 月 22 日至 30 日之間的天秤座
九月生日受到藍寶石的特殊保護,藍寶石賦予佩戴者歡樂、舒適和積極的想法。如前所述,藍寶石是通往更高意識和天體連接的管道。
享受這些好處並為您的生活增添一抹藍色優雅的最佳方式之一就是佩戴藍寶石首飾!
藍寶石無疑是世界上最受歡迎的寶石之一。從拿破崙的妻子約瑟芬 (Joséphine) 的帝王手指到如今的劍橋公爵夫人,藍寶石長期以來一直在皇室中佔有一席之地。
值得慶幸的是,您不必是公主或皇室成員也能搶到屬於自己的閃閃發光的藍色寶石。藍寶石隨處可見,可用於製作精美的個性化生日禮物!
你有一個 9 月的愛人,你想用一份體貼的禮物給你驚喜嗎?為什麼不選擇藍寶石戒指、項鍊吊墜或一對藍寶石耳環?
想要進一步個性化您的禮物?選擇您所愛之人最喜歡的顏色的九月藍寶石!
藍寶石因其生動、迷人的藍色色調而備受珍視。 有什麼比用迷人的藍寶石珠寶來表達您的愛的深度更好的方式來慶祝特別的人?
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