The sapphire is one of the most
famous, sought after, and expensive
gemstones throughout the ages. In
the ancient world, this gem’s
heavenly blue was associated with
celestial hope and faith. It was also a
symbol of power, strength, and
kindness. It’s no wonder they’re so
beloved.
The word ‘sapphire’ means ‘blue’ in
Greek. Yet, as you read on, you’ll find sapphires come in many colors.
What Is Sapphire?
It’s one of the four precious gemstones. The other three are diamond, ruby, and
emerald. This gem is comprised of the mineral corundum. Sapphire is also very
hard — the third hardest mineral after diamond and moissanite. It’s common for
this gem to have inclusions and blemishes. A ‘star sapphire’ has an asterism.
This exhibits a reflection of light as six intersecting rays of a ‘star.
Rainbow of Colors
First of all, blue is by far the most popular color for this
gemstone. It’s admired in shades from pale blue to dark
blue. And the most valued shade is a ‘strong’ blue.
Yet, the gem comes in other colors such as pink, yellow,
violet, brown, orange, green, grey, black, and clear. If
not blue, the color is always stated (i.e., Violet
Sapphire). These are also called ‘fancy sapphires.’
Furthermore, there are ‘parti sapphires,’ which show two or more colors in the
same stone, according to Wikipedia. These are not commonly used in
mainstream jewelry, however.
Finally, the only color that the sapphire cannot be is red. A red-colored corundum
is a ‘ruby.’
Traces of iron, titanium, chromium, copper, or magnesium during formation
determine the color of this precious gem.
Use of the Gemstone
Almost all natural sapphire is made into jewelry.
Due to its hardness, it is also used in infrared optical components. The most
noteworthy being infrared optical components, such as scientific instruments,
wristwatch crystals, and electronic wafers in solid-state electronics. It’s also used
in shatter-resistant windows.
Famous Sapphires of the World
Royalty and celebrities have adored this captivating stone throughout history. A
few famous include:
King Solomon. He had a ‘magical ring’ of sapphire called the ‘Seal of
Solomon.’ Some people speculate that this was a six-pointed star
sapphire.
Catherine the Great. An admirer gave her a 337-carat sapphire. The royal
family eventually sold it to finance a hospital during World War I.
Mary Pickford, silent screen actress. She loved star sapphires and owned
both the ‘Star of Bombay’ of 182 carats and the ‘Star of India’ of 536
carats.
Meaning of Sapphire
Many people have called this gem ‘Stone of Destiny.’ Wearing it may contribute
to mental clarity, wisdom, good fortune, and kindness.
It’s also the birthstone for September. And it’s associated with the astrology signs
of Aquarius, Virgo, Libra, and Capricorn.
Finally, sapphire is the precious gem for the 5th and 45th marriage anniversaries.
Earrings and cufflinks are a couple of gift ideas to mark these milestones.
Jewelry-Making Ideas
String a deep blue sapphire pendant on a
precious or semi-precious metal chain (silver,
gold or rose gold). You’re ready to go.
Make earrings from beads, eye pins, and
earring fish hooks. It’s simple, yet precious.
Mix blue with other colors of sapphire beads
for a stunning, beguiling necklace. String
beads on wire and use a gold-filled or sterling-
silver lobster clasp, and connectors.
DIY Jewelry-Making Supplies
You can make your own jewelry with sapphire precious
gems. These heavenly stones are available online at
Ny6Designs Beads and Jewelry Supply and at the store
at 1023 S. Greenville Ave., Allen, TX.
Have Your Jewelry Custom Made
Don’t know how to make jewelry? No worries. You may
want to take a class or inquire about our custom-made
jewelry service. Phone 214-509- 6700.
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