The September Sapphire: A Guide to the Birthstone 

Whether you or your partner is celebrating a September milestone or you’re researching monthly birthstones, you’re in for a treat. The sapphire, a gemstone rich with history and meaning, is associated with the ninth month of the year and is not only a symbol of royalty but also an emblem of luck, wisdom and truth. 

Whether you’re considering a Sapphire engagement ring to propose to your soulmate or seeking a faultless birthday gift to treat yourself or a loved one, this guide will take you on a journey through the world of sapphires. Discover one of the ‘big three’ gemstones, its deep-rooted symbolism and what makes it an eternal treasure. 

 

What colour is the birthstone for September? 

The colour of September’s birthstone, sapphire, is most classically an intense, velvety and enchanting blue. However, the beauty of this gem lies in its ability to birth a spectrum of colour, a quality that makes each gemstone captivating.  

As one of the few gemstones to be born from more than one compound element, sapphires can range from hues of river blue, deep-sea teal, tropical peach, lighthouse yellow and cloudy grey. In its purest state, the September birthstone is actually colourless, but traces of elements such as iron and titanium influence the colour. However, sapphires are unable to be any shade of red, otherwise it would be classified as a ruby.  

While some sapphires are treated with heat to unlock their most vibrant hue and clarity, the most exclusive find is an untreated stone. Although these are very rare finds, the valuation increases because of this, and each unenhanced sapphire is certified to acknowledge its natural state.  

When selecting a sapphire, you’re not just choosing a certain colour. You’re choosing a mood, a memory and a gift from the Earth to adorn you or your loved one. Each one possesses a feeling: 

 

• A light, frosty and airy blue is reminiscent of a winter morning sky, evoking serenity and a calm, pure energy in quiet confidence. 

• A subtle violet hue captures the cathartic shades of an autumn sunset, reflecting a soul that is introspective, sensitive and passionate. 

• A vivid and saturated royal blue epitomises the quintessential colour of nobility with its brilliance and luminosity, magnifying an unapologetic boldness of one’s unwavering style and ambition. 

• A deep navy-black represents a grounded force with its profound depth, authority and sophistication. 

 

Most sapphire gems display delicate, intricate and feather-like inclusions which add textured depth, much like a signature on a priceless work of art. These natural characteristics aren’t a measure or the final stop of a stone’s beauty – in fact, it’s the craftsmanship of gem-cutters and jewellers who skilfully accentuate the appearance of diamonds and gemstones through the cutting process. Each September birthstone you admire has undergone individual attention to emphasise its spirit. 

 

What is the meaning of September’s birthstone? 

September’s cherished birthstone, sapphire, is saturated with a tapestry of meaning across the ages. Legends from ancient Greece and Rome whispered of its power to guard the wearer against harm and envy, a belief echoed in Christian tradition, where it was seen as a protective talisman. Beyond its role as a guardian, Buddhists held deeper spiritual significance for the sapphire, who saw it as a guide toward enlightenment. 

 

Sapphire gemstones are celebrated for their powerful associations, which include: 

• Luck: A charm believed to bring good fortune to its wearer. 

• Wealth and prosperity: A stone treasured for its association with abundance. 

• Nobility: A gem that has adorned the crowns and hands of royalty, symbolising honour and grace. 

• Faithfulness: A token of loyalty and sincerity in relationships. 

To unlock the stories of other gemstones, view our guide Gemstones and their Meanings.. 

 

The most desired sapphire accessories for September 

A sapphire’s great strength makes it an ideal choice for everyday wear. Scoring 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, the September birthstone is a gorgeous and resilient accessory. It’s also particularly well-suited for rings, though we always recommend removing your jewellery during activities like sports, household chores or exposure to extreme temperatures.  

Our expert jewellers at Shining Diamonds ensure that every piece meets the highest standards of quality, focusing on three key attributes that define a gemstone’s beauty: its cut for brilliance, clarity for purity and carat for its unique weight and presence.  

Discover our most desired sapphire accessories, each sculpted to be cherished for a lifetime.  

 

Elegant Pear Blue Sapphire Diamond Trilogy Ring 

 

SKU: RX4912BSC 

 A timeless tale of three. Our pear-cut sapphire is caressed in a claw setting and takes centre stage between two brilliant white diamonds. Each one acts as a radiant companion, enhancing the sapphire’s captivating blue, and is crafted to symbolise the love and adoration of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Choose your forever in three colours of 9k or 18k gold, or the enduring elegance of platinum. 

 

 

Round Blue Sapphire and Diamond Hoop Earrings 

 

SKU: LMJSE4911BS  

These exquisite hoop earrings are crafted from your choice of 18k white, yellow or rose gold, with each hoop meticulously adorned* with a pavé of dazzling white diamonds. From the base of each hoop hangs a 0.85-carat round sapphire, held securely in a four-claw setting to maximise its radiance. With a good cut and VS clarity, this pair captures the essence of refined elegance.  

 

 

How to care for your sapphire jewellery 

Caring for your sapphire jewellery is simple, as natural and untreated sapphire gemstones have higher toughness and durability, so they’re not prone to chipping, breaking or cracking. However, this also means you should separate softer stones in your jewellery box to prevent your sapphires scratching your more delicate accessories. 

Untreated sapphires are safe to clean in jeweller-approved steam or ultrasonic cleaners, but you should check with your jeweller if the gemstones have been dyed or fracture filled. The safest way to clean your sapphire stones is with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.  

 

7 tips to keep your sapphires in the best condition  

• Store each item of jewellery in separate compartments or pouches to prevent scratches or dents. 

• Regularly inspect your sapphires to ensure they’re not loose. 

• Remove your sapphire jewellery when doing housework, gardening, sports and bathing. 

• Be conscious of extreme temperature changes when wearing or storing your sapphires. 

• Only allow a professional jeweller to repair, resize or polish your sapphire jewellery. 

• Avoid soaking the stone. 

• Never use harsh detergents or solvents – like alcohol, acetone or paint thinner – when wearing or cleaning your sapphires. 

 

Want to experience your next item of sapphire jewellery before you buy?  

Visit our flagship Birmingham, London or Brighton jewellery stores to try on precious jewellery and be guided by expert advice from a Shining Diamonds jeweller.