A versatile and exceptionally strong birthstone

Sapphires signify loyalty, love, and even heaven

Since the days of Ancient Persia, the blue sapphire symbolizes protection, wisdom, and divine favor. In fact, in the early Christian church, the blue sapphires adorning vestments were meant to signify Heaven. In our modern times, blue sapphires also have come to denote loyalty and enduring love. (That is why they are the traditional gift of 45th wedding anniversaries.) These same qualities make blue sapphires a deeply meaningful and personal gemstone for September birthdays.

What makes sapphires unique and valuable?

Blue sapphires are evaluated based upon the purity of their blue hue, the most valuable of which have a velvety-blue to violet-blue color. Because of the way they are formed in nature, blue sapphires often have some inclusions, which are tiny flaws trapped within them. The number of inclusions is a contributing factor to what is known as a gem’s clarity grade. Blue sapphires with extremely high clarity (i.e., few to no inclusions) are often synthetic. Naturally occurring sapphires with such clarity are very rare—and highly valuable.

One of the harder birthstones

Natural blue sapphires are tough, and don’t cleave—meaning they won’t crack easily if bumped. That makes blue sapphires a smart pick for rings and other pieces you wear often.

How are sapphires formed?

Sapphires are formed over millions of years from intense pressure or crystallization from molten rock. Conditions required include an environment with high aluminum and low silica, and the color variations are caused by amounts of trace elements, such as include iron, titanium, or chromium. Madagascar is the highest producer of sapphires, but many also come from Sri Lanka, Australia, and Myanmar.

ABOUT THIS STONE

Here are some interesting tidbits about sapphire that make it a great choice for custom birthstone jewelry.

Naturally durable: With a hardness just below diamond, sapphire is built to last—perfect for rings, necklaces, and pieces meant to be worn daily. On the Mohs Scale, it has a hardness of 9 out of 10.
A variety of striking blue hues: Best known for their vivid blues, sapphires also come in a range of stunning colors, making them ideal for complementing pieces with multiple birthstones.
Investment value: Sapphires are known for retaining their value over time, and yet they usually cost less than other gemstones.
Historically treasured: Ancient civilizations prized blue gemstones as symbols of the divine, associating them with the heavens, truth, and royalty.

THE TEXAS CONNECTION

Sapphires are mined in Sri Lanka, Kashmir, Myanmar, among other locations, but they do not have a true geological connection to Texas. However, here are some Texans who were born in the month of September and have sapphire as their birthstone:

Beyoncé – Born September 4, 1981, in Houston, Texas. An international superstar, singer, actress, and businesswoman.
Tommy Lee Jones – Born September 15, 1946, in San Saba, Texas. Academy Award-winning actor known for roles in The Fugitive and No Country for Old Men.
Ann Richards – Born September 1, 1933, in Lakeview, Texas
Former Texas governor, known for her wit, leadership, and fierce advocacy. A true Texas trailblazer whose bold spirit mirrors the strength and symbolism of sapphire.
Buddy Holly – Born September 7, 1936, in Lubbock, Texas
Rock ’n’ roll pioneer whose music changed American culture. His brilliance and originality still shine bright—just like a sapphire in the spotlight.

Who are you honoring with a birthstone?

Whether you are honoring a mother, a grandmother, a sister, or a group of friends, here are examples of some of the beautiful birthstone jewelry our designers can customize just for you.