Sapphires are September’s birthstone and are mostly known for their beautiful blue colors. They also come in a full spectrum of colors, such as yellows and pinks, peaches and oranges, purples and grays, greens, and even lesser known “parti” sapphires which have two or more colors.
The gemstone sapphire is one of two gemstone varieties of the mineral corundum, which gets its various colors from different trace elements in its chemical structure.
True red corundum is called a ruby while all other colors of corundum are known as sapphire. Corundum is also the hardest stone next to a diamond, ranking 9 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.
llyn strong fine art jewelry is located in Greenville, SC, and specializes in creating custom-made fine art jewelry. Browse our online inventory of fine art jewelry. Contact us today at 864-233-5900 or visit our storefront at 1322 E Washington St Suite C1, Greenville, SC 29607. Let us help you reimagine, re-think and re-invent your jewelry collection!
Sapphires are great for engagement rings or other jewelry that you intend to wear daily because of their hardness and durability.
The most recognizable sapphire engagement ring in recent history is the “Princess Di” ring presented to Lady Diana Spencer by Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales in 1981. It is a 12ct. Ceylon sapphire surrounded by a halo of diamonds set in 18K white gold.
There was royal controversy surrounding Princess Diana’s ring as she broke tradition by selecting a “stock” design from Gerard Jeweler’s existing catalog (The Marguerite Ring) instead of commissioning a one-of-a-kind design as was the royal custom.
Diana chose a design that was not exclusive to the royal family and was accessible to commoners. Later she became known as the “People’s Princess.”
Fact #1
Sapphire is not only the birthstone for September, but Ceylon sapphires are also symbols used to celebrate your 5th or 45th wedding anniversaries. If you happen to be lucky enough to be a member of royalty celebrating 65 years on the throne, a sapphire jubilee ring or pendant is a must!
Fact #2
Sapphires throughout history are believed to possess powerful healing properties: the ability to protect the wearer from harm, cure ailments, and also to bring inner peace to the wearer.
Fact #3
Sapphires are as mysterious as they are exquisite. They have captivated humanity for centuries and are often referred to as the “gem of the heavens,” “gem of gems,” or “gem of the gods.” Astrologically they are linked to the planet Saturn. Ancient civilizations believed they were the window to the heavens, connecting mortals to the gods because of their many celestial blue hues.
Fact #4
Sapphires have adorned many royal crowns, jewelry, and regalia throughout time, making them a symbol of wisdom, loyalty and nobility. Princess Diana’s famous sapphire ring is now being worn by her daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge.
Fact #5
Sapphires have often been featured and mentioned in literature, art, and film. In “A Lover’s Complaint,” Shakespeare described the “heavenly hued sapphire” as having the power to create wit, laughter, or sorrow.
Sapphires for All
In conclusion, sapphires are a great gemstone to be worn regularly. Please join us to view our extensive collection of sapphires in a wide variety of colors and shapes at our Fall Gemstone Roundtable on October 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th. Seating is limited and reservations are required. Please call 864-233-5900 or e-mail us at info@llynstrong.com to make your reservation. Visit llynstrong.com to learn more.
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