September’s birthstone is sapphire!

Although the most popular variety of these gems is blue, they won’t leave anyone born during this month feel blue when they wear them. Sapphire is associated with wisdom and nobility, and is believed to allow for greater powers of focus and concentration.

Like the ruby, this gemstone is comprised from the mineral corundum, the second hardest natural material known to man. Except instead of the element that gives the ruby its red colour, sapphires get their hue from other elements including iron. Iron is the specific element that makes sapphires blue.

Sapphires date back long ago

The popular roots of sapphires date back to the Middle Ages, during which time it was believed this gem symbolized heaven, and it was the gem of choice for ecclesiastical rings. But the history of sapphires extends earlier than that – rulers of ancient Persia believed the sky was blue as a result of reflecting sapphires.

Be like Lady Diana

In modern times, the sapphire got a boost in pop culture when Prince Charles presented one to Lady Diana in an engagement ring. Prince William used the same ring when proposing to Catherine Middleton, now Duchess of Cambridge.

Visit TSC.ca’s Birthstone Boutique to shop our full assortment of sapphire jewellery.