Posts tagged Sapphire

Sapphire is a semi-precious gemstone frequently incorporated into some of the most modern, beautiful handmade jewelry in the world. It is most often found in shades of deep blues, and is widely recognized as the September Birthstone as well as zodiac signs of Taurus and Virgo, the 5th, 45th, 30th, 15th, and 50th anniversaries, the time of 10 am and Thursday and Tuesday. But beyond its modern-day uses and associations, sapphire holds a decadent mythological, spiritual and etymological history that adds nostalgic value to its already strong aesthetic worth. Read on for more information that will help you fall in love with your sapphire jewelry – or inspire you to buy some today!

Sapphire is the mineral variety of the species corundum. Although many people associate Sapphire with the color blue, this precious colored gem comes in a vast array of hues and saturations, in just about ever color of the rainbow and clear as well, except for red (red ones are Rubies!). These other colors are called “Fancy Sapphires. “

The beautiful blue Sapphire is immaculate, pure and heavenly. Throughout history, the Sapphire has been associated with qualities like sympathy, harmony, friendship and loyalty, permanency and reliability. Not surprisingly, in some cultures sapphires as more popular than diamonds as the center stone for engagement rings.

Sapphire gemstones look best as parts of formal evening jewelry when paired with diamonds, quartz or pearls. More casual combinations include softer contrasts with green peridot, light aquamarine, citrine or ruby. To see a selection of handmade artisan jewelry featuring sapphire, click here. Sapphire is typically considered a sophisticated gemstone that works well with any outfit. In earrings, it works especially well to enhance the luster of blue eyes.

The word Sapphire comes from the Hebrew Sapir. Centuries ago, the Persians believed that the sky was one big, sparkling Sapphire, and called the stone “the gem of the heavens. ” People believed that the power of wisdom was held within the Sapphire, promoting mental clarity, enabling the wearer to find the answer to their problems, and let go of grudges, increasing tranquility in everyday life that is sent from the heavens.

A Sapphire’s value is determined by the richness and purity color of its color. Most Sapphires are heat-treated to eliminate impurities and improve color and clarity. Throughout history, the majority of the world’s sapphires were mined in Sri Lanka, Madagascar and Myanmar. Today, some of the finest Sapphires come from mines in Montana.

Mohs’ Hardness score is based on a 10 point scale where 10 is the most resistant, like a diamond, and 1 is easily scratched, such as Talc. Sapphire gets a score of 9, meaning that it is very scratch resistant and therefore suitable as a component of everyday jewelry. Sapphire gemstones should be regularly cleaned by a professional or with a soft rag and mild soap and water, or an ultra-sonic cleaner or steamer. Other methods, including solvents and harsh chemicals should be avoided when cleaning your handcrafted jewelry as exposure to these elements can damage semi-precious and precious gemstones and pearls.

Learn more about all semi-precious gemstones, including amethyst, apatite, black onyx, blue topaz, carnelian, chalcedony, citrine, coral, garnet, white topaz, crystal, diamond, emerald, iolite, jade, Labradorite, moonstone, pearl, peridot, prehnite, rose quarz, ruby, sapphire, smokey topaz, tanzanite, tourmaline and tourquoise when you check out this gemstone chart.