The traditional birthstone of those born in September, and the gift for your 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries. Sapphires have been prized as a gemstone since 800BC.
Ancient Persians believed that the sky was painted blue by the reflection of Sapphires.
Another legend has it that the 10 Commandments were written on tablets of Sapphire, eventhough it was most likely Lapis Luzuli. This Biblical refence is not the only one. Because of their blue color an association with the Heavens has been made. During the Middle Ages Sapphire was the stone of choice for many Ecclesiastical Rings. And one of the Stones of the Apocolypse-more on that one later.
Not only a stone of the heavens, Sapphires have been used as a symbol of wise and pure rulers. "The Regal Gem" has been the center of many crown jewels, and given as gifts to and by rulers. Remember Princess Di's engagement ring?
Sapphires, or corundums-come in many different colors. From the traditional blues, to pinks, yellows, black and white-clear. Red occurs often but red corundums are called Ruby. Color change Sapphires occur as well-usually bue under natural light and violet under artifical light-but they are rare.
There is one notable Color-Change Sapphire-the "Le Saphire Marveilleux". Owned by a Polish nobleman in the 18th Century, this stone was the object of a series of stories written by his wife-Mme de Genlis. The stone was used to detect the fidelity of women in the story, changing color if she was unfaithful.
A stone of prosperity, Sapphires protect the wearer from disease and poverty. Wear your Sapphire in good health and proseprity.
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