September Birthstone
As autumn kicks off with September, it brings along a special guest: the striking sapphire birthstone. These gems, boasting shades from bold royal blue to soft pastels, symbolize wisdom, loyalty and divine favor. It’s these qualities that often make sapphires click so well with folks born in the ninth month.
Here at James Avery, we understand there’s something special about the connection between a person and their birthstone. And for many people, learning more about their birthstone only adds to that unique bond.
In this guide, we will be diving headfirst into all things sapphire. We’ll be exploring the rich history and tales surrounding this September birthstone, closely examining the fascinating stories that have followed the sapphire for centuries. Plus, we’ll dig into its spiritual significance, spill some fun facts, give you the low-down on sapphire care and help you pick out the perfect piece of sapphire jewelry from our James Avery collection.
The Durability of the September Birthstone
When we consider the physical properties of sapphires, their allure extends beyond their captivating beauty. Sapphires are renowned for their durability and hardness, rating a solid 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This places them just behind diamonds, which sit alone at the pinnacle with a rating of 10.
This exceptional hardness of sapphires, coupled with their outstanding resistance to scratches, means they are less susceptible to damage compared to other gemstones. They’re resilient enough to withstand the rigors of daily wear, retaining their lustrous appeal even after years of usage.
This makes sapphires an ideal choice for everyday jewelry, particularly for pieces such as engagement rings and wedding bands worn regularly. Their durability also ensures they can be passed down as cherished heirlooms, preserving their physical beauty and spiritual symbolism for generations to come.
Whether you’re drawn to sapphires for their spiritual connotations, their historical significance, or simply their resplendent beauty, one thing is certain — a sapphire jewelry piece from James Avery will be a treasured possession, encapsulating timeless elegance and profound meaning.
Sapphire Birthstone Care and Cleaning
Caring for your sapphire birthstone jewelry ensures that it continues to sparkle and shine for years to come. Whether it’s your treasured September birthstone piece or a gift from a loved one, proper maintenance is key to preserving its beauty. Here are some tips for taking care of your sapphire jewelry:
Keeping your sapphire clean will help it maintain its brilliant sparkle. Regular cleaning at home can be performed by following these steps:
Keep your sapphire pieces away from harsh chemicals, such as chlorine and bleach, which can damage the stone and the metal setting. Always remove your sapphire jewelry before swimming in a chlorinated pool or cleaning with bleach-based products.
- Mix warm water and mild dish soap in a small bowl.
- Place your sapphire jewelry in the mixture and let it soak for about 15-20 minutes.
- Use a soft, clean toothbrush to gently scrub away any dirt or grime, paying particular attention to the underside of the stone where dirt often accumulates.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
To prevent scratches, always store your sapphire jewelry separately from other jewelry pieces. Use a fabric-lined jewelry box or individual soft cloth pouches to keep your jewelry safe.
Just like you’d visit the dentist for regular check-ups, your precious gem jewelry also needs professional attention. Having your sapphire jewelry inspected and professionally cleaned at least once a year is advisable. This ensures the settings are secure and the sapphires are not loose, in addition to giving your piece a deep clean.
Adhering to these care tips will keep your sapphire jewelry looking as beautiful as the day you got it.
Fun Facts About Sapphires
While blue is the most known color for sapphires, this stunning gemstone can be found in a rainbow of other hues, excluding red. (Red sapphires are classified as rubies.)
These are called “star sapphires,” and they display a captivating star-like pattern when subjected to a single light source.
This deep affection for sapphires symbolizes wisdom, virtue and good fortune. A renowned example is the engagement ring given by Prince Charles to Princess Diana, later passed to Kate Middleton by Prince William.
Many believe that the Ten Commandments were inscribed on tablets of sapphire, signifying the gemstone’s association with divine law and sacredness.
Ranking nine on the Mohs scale, they are resilient and resistant to scratches, an ideal trait for daily wear jewelry.
In addition to being the birthstone for September, sapphires commemorate the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries.
Weighing a remarkable 422.99 carat, it finds its home in the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.
Named after the color of a lotus blossom, these sapphires sport a unique pinkish-orange hue.
A lab-grown sapphire possesses the same physical, chemical and optical characteristics as natural sapphires. Lab-created blue sapphires offer a more affordable option for those on a budget.
Often worn by scholars and priests, the gemstone became a symbol of their pursuit of knowledge.
Can You Wear Sapphire Every Day?
Absolutely! The durable nature of sapphires, second in hardness only to diamonds, makes them an excellent choice for everyday wear. Sapphire gemstone rings, pendants, earrings, or bracelets are able to withstand the rigors of daily life without losing their radiant appeal. From the office to a night out, sapphire jewelry is a versatile and beautiful accessory for every occasion.
How to Shop For the September Birthstone at James Avery Artisan Jewelry
When you’re ready to shop for your sapphire jewelry, there are four important factors to consider: color, cut, clarity and carat weight—known as the 4Cs. With a James Avery lab-created Sapphires, you’ll have a cherished piece that checks all the marks of the 4cs.
At James Avery, our expert artisans can guide you in choosing a unique piece for your jewelry collection. Our team will ensure you find a piece that resonates with your style and preferences.
We invite you to explore James Avery’s sapphire jewelry collection, where you’ll discover an exquisite range of sapphire jewelry, from stunning solitaires to pieces where sapphires complement other gemstones. Our collection is designed and crafted with the utmost care, ensuring you a piece of jewelry and a cherished keepsake.
Begin your journey into the world of sapphires today, experience the James Avery difference and adorn yourself with a gem that is as unique and memorable as your September birthday. Contact us for more information or to have an expert assist you today!
Explore our full collection of lab-created blue sapphire gemstone jewelry today.