Curiosities about sapphire that you didn't know
Sapphire, the precious gemstone favored by royalty and the birthstone of September, captivating and fascinating in equal measure, holds a series of exceptional mysteries and curiosities. Known for its impressive blue color and durability, in this post we will tell you some interesting facts about it that you surely didn't know.
The origin of sapphires
The word sapphire comes from the Greek "sappheiros" and the Latin "saphirus," and in both cases means blue.
Sapphires belong to the corundum mineral family, which includes rubies. Both rubies and sapphires are made of the same mineral, aluminum oxide. The difference in color is due to the presence of trace elements, with chromium for ruby and iron and titanium for sapphire.
Sapphire is the second hardest gemstone and ranks 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes it very scratch-resistant and suitable for jewelry, including engagement rings.
The largest deposits of this stone are in Africa and South America, although they can also be found in India, Australia, and areas of Thailand and Sri Lanka, among others.
Colored sapphires?
In their natural state, sapphires can be found in a wide range of colors, such as pink sapphire, white sapphire, yellow sapphire, or green sapphire, among others, although the most famous are blue sapphires. This blue color can vary from pale blue to deep blue, but it is the intensity of the color that is the important factor in determining its value.
The most valuable color of this mineral is cornflower blue, known as Kashmir sapphire; another extremely valuable color is the orange-pink of the Padparadscha sapphire.
Sapphire, spiritual properties
Sapphires have been associated with various symbolic meanings throughout history. They are often seen as symbols of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. In some cultures, sapphires were believed to protect against envy and harm, and since ancient times they have been used for protection, especially by royalty, clergy, and warriors.
Sapphires are the birthstone of September, and it is believed that wearing a sapphire can bring good luck and protection to those born in this month. But regardless of the birth month, it has also been associated with luck and success in various aspects of life. Not only that, it is considered a stone that aids spiritual connection and meditation.
Sapphire, a favorite stone of celebrities
Throughout history, sapphires have played a prominent role in jewelry created for royalty. Queen Victoria already wore a beautiful sapphire and diamond tiara, but other members of the British royal family have also shown their fondness for this precious stone, such as Queen Elizabeth II, who owned a wide variety of sapphire jewels, notably her tiara and the Prince Albert Brooch. Lady Di also famously wore a spectacular sapphire and diamond engagement ring, originally belonging to Queen Elizabeth II, which was later worn by Kate Middleton.
This was not the only famous sapphire engagement ring. Other celebrities like Elizabeth Hurley and Victoria Beckham wore designs featuring this stone to announce their engagement, in the case of the former, or as a gift to celebrate their engagement, as was Victoria Beckham's ring.
Sapphire is one of the most beautiful and coveted stones, perfect for wearing in different types of jewelry, such as earrings, rings, or necklaces, and boasts an interesting history full of symbolism. Remember that at José Luis Joyerías, we have a wide catalog of jewelry with sapphires, so don't hesitate to ask us for more information!
