✨ Celebrate September with Sapphire
September’s birthstone is one of the most iconic gems in the world: the sapphire. Known for its deep blue brilliance, sapphire has been cherished for centuries by royalty and gemstone lovers alike. But blue isn’t the only option, and today’s choices range from natural treasures to lab-created beauties. Which sapphire is right for you? Let’s explore!
Sapphire: Is this the gemstone for you?
When most people think of sapphire, they imagine a rich, royal blue — and that’s the traditional September shade. But sapphire actually comes in nearly every color except red (red corundum is classified as ruby). You’ll find pink, yellow, green, purple, and even colorless sapphires, each with their own unique appeal. Still, blue sapphire remains the most classic and celebrated for September birthdays.
Natural vs. Lab-Created Sapphires
Natural sapphires are mined from the earth, with origins spanning Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and the famous Kashmir and Burmese deposits. Their colors can vary widely, making each stone one-of-a-kind.
Lab-created sapphires, on the other hand, are grown in controlled environments that replicate natural conditions. They have the same chemical makeup and durability as natural sapphires but usually feature more consistent color — and come at a fraction of the price. For everyday jewelry or budget-friendly gifts, lab sapphires are an excellent choice.
Sapphire in Wedding & Engagement Jewelry
Sapphires aren’t just for September birthdays — they’ve become a beloved choice for engagement rings and wedding bands. Here’s why:
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Durability: With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphire is nearly as tough as diamond, making it perfect for daily wear.
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Symbolism: Its associations with loyalty, truth, and lasting love make it a meaningful stone for marriage.
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Color Options: While blue remains timeless, couples love customizing with pink, yellow, or even green sapphires for a unique twist on tradition.
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Royal Inspiration: Iconic pieces, like Princess Diana’s sapphire ring, continue to inspire brides who want something classic yet distinctive.
For wedding bands, sapphires add a striking accent as side stones or inlaid channels, bringing both beauty and symbolism to a lifelong piece.
History & Symbolism
Sapphire has long been a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and protection. Ancient civilizations believed sapphires shielded wearers from harm and envy. In medieval Europe, clergy wore them as a symbol of heaven, while royalty used them to represent truth and sincerity.
Even today, sapphire carries those timeless meanings — making it a gemstone that feels as powerful as it is beautiful.
Famous Sapphires
One of the most famous sapphires of all time is Princess Diana’s engagement ring — now worn by Kate Middleton. With its deep blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, this iconic piece has inspired countless designs and reinforced sapphire’s place as a symbol of elegance and romance.
Sapphire Jewelry Today
Sapphire is second only to diamond in hardness, which makes it perfect for everyday wear. Blue is the most traditional, but many people are drawn to fancy colors like pink or yellow for something unique. Lab-created sapphires make colorful designs more accessible, while natural stones offer the rarity and individuality of earth-mined gems.
Alternative September Gemstones
While sapphire is the official September birthstone, a few alternatives are sometimes celebrated:
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Blue Spinel – Rare and naturally beautiful, offering a vibrant blue at a lower price than sapphire.
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Lapis Lazuli – An ancient stone prized for its deep royal blue flecked with gold.
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Blue Zircon – Brilliant sparkle with a vivid, electric blue hue.
These alternatives make wonderful options for those who want something different while still honoring September’s signature blue.
Sapphire as a Birthstone Gift
September birthdays are lucky to claim sapphire as their stone. Whether natural or lab-created, blue or fancy-colored, sapphire makes a meaningful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or “something blue” for weddings. With its symbolism of loyalty and strength, it’s the perfect gemstone to celebrate lasting love and cherished milestones.
Fun Facts & Zodiac Connections
Beyond birthdays, sapphire is also tied to the zodiac signs Virgo (August 23 – September 22) and Libra (September 23 – October 22). For Virgos, sapphire’s symbolism of wisdom and clarity complements their thoughtful, detail-oriented nature. For Libras, sapphire represents balance and harmony, aligning with their pursuit of fairness and peace.
Fun fact: In ancient lore, sapphires were believed to protect travelers, inspire honesty, and even guard against poison. Some also believed the stone’s color would fade if worn by someone unfaithful — adding to its reputation as a gem of loyalty.
At Sparkle & Jade, you’ll find sapphire jewelry to fit every style and occasion — from natural sapphire rings and pendants to lab-created designs that bring luxury within reach. Browse our collection to discover the perfect September piece for yourself or someone special.
