A Guide to Sapphire Jewelry
Royal blue and rich in history, sapphire is more than September's birthstone. As one of the world’s most celebrated gemstones, its prestige reflects its beauty, durability, and regality.
Sapphire jewelry draws us in with its sublime, one-of-a-kind character. Whether you’re celebrating a September birthday, looking for an engagement ring with a distinctive pop of color, or treating yourself to some well-deserved luxury, sapphire’s timeless symbolism and undeniable elegance bring something special to any collection.
Let’s explore the gemstone’s storied past and enduring presence.
What is Sapphire?
Sapphire doesn’t stand alone. In fact, it comes from a family.
Sapphire is a type of corundum, a mineral that forms in an array of eye-catching colors. Red corundum is classified as ruby; other hues are considered sapphire. Blue is traditionally considered sapphire’s signature color, but sapphires can appear in an incredible range of colors: pink, violet, green, yellow, orange, black, and beyond. These other varieties are known as “fancy sapphires.”
Because the blue variety of this gem is known exclusively as “sapphire,” the term “blue sapphire” is redundant; however, people often use this color-based qualifier to distinguish it from fancy sapphires.
One reason sapphire is a superior choice for jewelry is its uncommon durability, which sets it apart from other natural minerals. Next only to diamonds, sapphire possesses a Mohs hardness of 9. Its exceptional durability makes this resilient stone an excellent choice for everyday wear.
Sapphire: A Symbol
In ancient times, people believed sapphires offered good fortune and protection. Today, their identity has evolved to encompass noble qualities: sincerity, truth, and loyalty.
Sapphires have adorned religious relics and been worn by royalty for generations. Princess Diana famously wore a Ceylon sapphire engagement ring, which King Charles presented to her. Her son, Prince William, later passed the ring down to Catherine, Princess of Wales.
A Rock of the World
The history of sapphire spans the globe, with notable sources ranging from Kashmir and Sri Lanka to Myanmar, Montana, and beyond.
Kashmir Sapphires
Hailing from the Himalayan region of Kashmir, Kashmir sapphires are among the world’s most beloved gemstones. Their vibrant, cornflower color is softened by intricate rutile inclusions known as “silk,” lending this variety of sapphire a decadent, velvety finish. The legendary Kashmir deposits produced their greatest quantities of sapphire in the late 19th century, and production has been extremely limited ever since. As a result, Kashmir sapphires appearing on the market today are exceptionally rare, with many originating from stones mined more than a century ago.
Ceylon Sapphires
Sri Lanka, once known as Ceylon, has been a historical source of rare and radiant gemstones for over 2,000 years. It is famed for magnificent crystals like garnet, amethyst, topaz, and, of course, Sri Lankan sapphire. This iconic sapphire variety is vividly bright and mesmerizingly transparent.
Yogo Sapphires
Sapphire is also part of America’s geologic history. During Montana’s 19th-century gold rush era, miners discovered sapphires in several areas of the state, including deposits along the Missouri River, Rock Creek, and Yogo Gulch.
Yogo sapphires are exceptional. While many Montana sapphires come from secondary deposits, Yogo sapphires come from primary deposits. This means they are mined directly from the rocks where they form, rather than being separated from their formation site. As a result, Yogo sapphires have naturally rich shades ranging from blue to violet, along with unparalleled clarity.
Burma Sapphires
Myanmar, historically known as Burma, is another source of fine sapphire. The famed Mogok region has produced these gemstones for centuries, with the finest Burma sapphires prized for their rich, intense blue color, sometimes touched with a subtle violet hue. Their exceptional color and storied origin have made Burma sapphires some of the world’s most sought-after colored gemstones.
Enhance Your Style with Sapphire Jewelry
From necklaces and rings to earrings and more, sapphire jewelry offers boundless possibilities. Explore our extensive selection of sapphire jewelry and discover a piece that complements your collection.
Sapphire rings
Timelessly understated and ideal for everyday wear, sapphire rings are a wonderful alternative for couples looking to step outside the diamond. They can also serve as a meaningful gift for engagements, birthdays, and other important milestones.
Sapphire earrings
Sapphire earrings are both versatile and enchanting. Sapphire studs add subtle charm to any outfit, and ornate drop earrings lend a magnetizing glimmer to your evening attire.
Sapphire necklaces and pendants
Incorporate this uncommon stone into your aesthetic with a sapphire necklace or sapphire pendant. These gems add visual depth and dimension to the neckline, making them a remarkable match for other pieces.
Colored gemstone collections
Sapphires don’t have to be the only star of the show. At Lux Bond & Green, our colored gemstone collections feature pieces that pair sapphire with other precious stones. These heirloom-quality pieces showcase sapphire in settings and styles suited to special occasions and everyday outfits alike.
Discover Sapphire Jewelry at Lux Bond & Green
With centuries of cultural significance, uncanny magnificence, and outstanding style, sapphire is anything but ordinary. At Lux Bond & Green, we’re proud to carry a stunning variety of sapphire jewelry. Whether you’re choosing a gift for a September birthday, seeking the engagement ring of your dreams, or expanding your collection, our expert non-commissioned staff of certified gemologists will guide you as you discover the piece that’s been waiting for you.
Visit our Connecticut or Massachusetts showrooms or shop online today.