Sapphires are one of the gemstones I am most fascinated with. When people think of gemstones, they mostly think of diamonds, emeralds or rubies, but I think of Sapphires. One day in the library, I saw many interesting books on gemstones but my eyes fell on a book about my new favourite gemstone- Sapphire. I was amazed by the different shades, textures and looks of the gem.
The Allure
The September Birthstone – Sapphires are one of the most revered gemstones in the world. They are admired for their stunning beauty and durability. Sapphires are part of the corundum family, which also includes Rubies and Emery. Sapphires’ most common shade is the medium blue hue. However, they come in a wide variety of colors, making them both versatile and in high demand. The unique shades of Sapphires have captured human attention for centuries.
Origin and Formation
Sapphires are primarily composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂ O₃) with elements such as iron, titanium, magnesium, and chromium. These elements are the reason for the gemstone’s colour variations. Most commonly, sapphires are blue because of the iron and titanium that absorb light in a way that gives the gemstone its stunning blue colour. However, sapphires can also be found in different varieties of other colors, including yellow, pink, green, and even transparent. The rarest variety of sapphire is the Padparadscha. It is a gemstone that blends pink and orange in a mesmerizing way and is reflective of a sunset.
Sapphires are formed inside metamorphic rocks under extreme heat and pressure, deep within the Earth’s crust, often over millions of years. This process also explains how they are so durable, since they have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale making them the second hardest gemstones after diamonds. Sapphires are mostly scratch-resistant but hard surfaces, lemon juice, another Sapphire, or diamonds can scratch or damage them. If you regularly clean them with warm soapy water, it will keep your sapphires sparkling for a long time. The fact that sapphires can maintain their shine and toughness has made them a symbol of lasting beauty and strength.
Where Sapphires are Found
Sapphires are found across the Earth, some areas being Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Kashmir, Madagascar, and Australia. These areas produce sapphires with unique properties and remarkable appearance. Sri Lanka, is renowned for its vibrant blue sapphires, while the Kashmir region produces sapphires with a velvety blue hue. Madagascar is a major source of sapphires, particularly the yellow, pink, and green ones. Australian sapphires, which are often lighter in color, have a distinct pure hue.
Sapphires in Use
Throughout history, sapphires have been seen as symbols of wisdom, nobility, and purity. In ancient Greece and Rome, they believed that wearing a sapphire could protect the person from envy and harm. Sapphires have also been very important among royalty. The most famous sapphire jewelry piece in recent history is the engagement ring of Princess Diana. A 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, it is one of the most recognized pieces of royal jewelry.
Sapphires are highly sought after in the current times as well. Their durability and stunning color variations make them ideal for rings, necklaces, earrings, and other jewelry items. These gems are available in a range of cuts and shapes, including oval, round, cushion, and emerald cuts.
In addition to their historical and spiritual significance, sapphires are also believed to bring peace, mental clarity, and inner strength. Their special properties and mystical looks make them an amazing choice for enthusiasts of fine jewelry.
Writer : Aanya Jain
Grade : 5 (Year 2025)
Place : Virginia, USA
