Sapphire is the birthstone for September and has a rich and fascinating history as a gemstone. The gemstone is a variety of the mineral corundum, and is most commonly known for its blue colour, although it can also come in a range of other colours including pink, yellow, and green.
Sapphires have been highly valued for their beauty and rarity since ancient times, and were particularly prized by the ancient Persians, who believed that the gemstone had many mystical and healing properties. In addition to its beauty, sapphire was believed to have many powerful properties, including the ability to protect the wearer from harm, promote good health, and bring wisdom and spiritual enlightenment.
Sapphires were also highly valued in ancient Greece and Rome, where they were used to decorate clothing, jewellery, and other decorative objects. They were often associated with royalty and were considered to be a symbol of power and wealth.
In the Middle Ages, sapphires continued to be a highly prized gemstone, and were often used to decorate the crowns and robes of royalty. The gemstone was also considered to be a symbol of divine favour, and was often used in religious objects such as crucifixes and reliquaries.
Today, sapphires are still highly valued for their beauty and rarity and are often used in fine jewellery such as rings, wine charms, necklaces, and earrings. They are considered to be a symbol of wisdom, truth, and faithfulness, and are often given as a gift to mark special occasions such as anniversaries and engagements.