Who can escape the fascinating appeal of Sapphires? With its perfect balance of classical beauty and contemporary expression, it’s no wonder this gemstone is so prevalent among many royal families.

September brings seasonal changes and ushers in the start of the beautiful fall season. The month of September is not only one of the most popular months for weddings around the world, but it also possesses a largely favored gemstone too. 

Although the color that comes to mind for most people when they think of sapphire is deep royal blue, in reality, no two sapphires are alike because of the many variations of colors and shades. This guarantees a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry with a beautiful and symbolic meaning. 

Keep reading to learn more about one of our favorite birthstones.

What Are The Three Birthstones For September?

As a matter of fact, there are several gemstones that represent September besides sapphires. The month of September actually boasts three unique and magnificent gemstones as its birthstone. They include Sapphire, Lapis Lazuli, and Carnelian. 

Even though sapphires are the most common gemstone choice for September, zircons come in second place. But don’t let that stop you from adding any of the less popular gemstones to your jewelry collection.

What Is The September Birthstone Color?

The beautiful rich blue of Sapphire makes it one of the most desirable birthstones. But did you know that Sapphires come in a kaleidoscope of colors too? While the most popular hue is royal blue, the gemstone’s colors can vary from pink, green, orange, purple, and yellow. From our point of view, no matter what you choose as your favorite shade, it still counts as a September birthstone. 

September Birthstone History & Symbolism

The word ‘sapphire’ comes from the Latin word ‘saphirus’ and the Greek word ‘sapheiros, both meaning blue. Did you know that the unique meaning behind every gemstone is informed by its history and tradition? The historic and much-desired gemstone is customarily connected with royalty, nobility, and spirituality.
To date, royals believe that the September birthstone brings protection, good fortune, healing, and wisdom. But many also believe that sapphires represent virtue, good fortune, and sincerity, which are all important qualities in a marriage. Sapphire engagement rings have long been a symbol of devotion and sincerity, making them a perfect choice for brides.

Where Is The September Birthstone Found?

Sapphire is found in only a handful of locations around the world. The three most well-known and important sources for the September birthstone are Kashmir, Myanmar (formerly Burma), and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka, in particular, boasts the world’s most sought-after sapphires because of their rich, shimmering blue hues. However, sapphires from Sri Lanka are among the most expensive. 

More recently, mines and significant quantities of the September birthstone have also been found in Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, India, and the United States (Montana), among other countries in Asia and Africa. In fact, Madagascar is fast becoming one of the world’s leading countries of stunning sapphires.

September Birthstone Jewelry Gifts

From elegant necklaces to bold sapphire earrings, the JamesAllen.com September birthstone jewelry collection is complete with various styles, designs, and colors. Making it perfect for those looking to make the ultimate style statement. September birthstone jewelry makes an excellent gift for a number of reasons:

Now, when it comes to celebrities, blue sapphire engagement rings in particular are very popular and have also been associated with the royal family for centuries.

This trend began during the early 80s when Prince Charles gave Lady Diana Spencer a magnificent Sapphire engagement ring which, of course, came with a hefty price tag. The non-traditional and very unique engagement ring caused major controversy, as not everyone in the British royal family approved of the bold gemstone.  

Princess Diana’s sapphire blue engagement ring may be one of the most recognizable pieces of jewelry in history and it seems many other stars like Victoria Beckham, Penelope Cruz, and of course, Kate Middleton have followed suit.

Sapphire Birthstone Care & Cleaning

Jewelers use a tool called the Mohs Hardness Scale to rate a gemstone’s general resistance to scratching. Gemstones are ranked from 1 to 10 on the scale, diamonds are the hardest at 10, while pearls are the softest at an average of 3. It’s important to note that higher gemstones are more durable while lower gemstones need a little more protection and care.

Sapphires are ranked 9 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, meaning the gemstone is highly durable and is not prone to cracking, chipping, or breaking. Furthermore, you do not need to be overly careful when cleaning them. 

But, this does not mean you can get away from caring for and cleaning your sapphire jewelry. Keep in mind that at least twice a year, you should check your sapphires to ensure the gemstone is not loose in its setting. Additionally, experts recommend storing your sapphire jewelry separately in its own container or in a soft bag to avoid being scratched.

Sapphires can also easily be cleaned at home. Even though you can use ultrasonic cleaners and steam with no problem, soap and water will do the trick. 

All you’ll need is:

• A small bowl 
• Soft-bristled bristled toothbrush
• Warm water 
• Mild soap 

Steps to clean your diamond:

1. Add warm water into a small bowl with some mild soap.
2. Soak your sapphire jewelry for ± 20 minutes. If your jewelry seems extra dirty, let it soak longer.
3. Next, brush the gemstone with a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse the jewelry with clean water.  
4. It’s very important to dry the gemstone thoroughly with a soft towel.
5. DO NOT allow the water to stay sitting on the gemstone.

Fun Facts About Sapphires

• Princess Diana’s engagement ring featured a whopping 12ct oval cut sapphire surrounded by diamonds.
• The Star of Adam is an oval-shaped blue star sapphire, currently the largest star sapphire in the world. Discovered in Sri Lanka in August 2015, it weighs 1,404.49 carats. 
• Sapphires are often considered one of the Big 3 gemstones, accompanied by Emerald and Ruby.
• Color changing sapphires exist. Yes, we are just as intrigued as you are. These types of sapphires exhibit different colors in different lighting, shifting from blue in the daylight to a bluish purple in the nighttime under incandescent light.
• Sapphires and the Ruby gemstone have a lot in common, and many refer to them as ‘relatives’. Both rubies and sapphires form the same mineral corundum, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. Red corundum is called ruby, while all other gem-quality forms of corundum are called sapphires.

FAQs

What stone is suitable for Virgo?

The zodiac sign’s birthstone belongs to those born between August 23rd and September 22nd. Although various gemstones are associated with Virgos, the main and most suitable stone is blue Sapphire. 

Is Sapphire expensive? 

Sapphires are regarded as one of the most valuable gemstones. However, they do range in price depending on many different factors. Sapphires range from $25 per carat to more than $11,000 per carat, and the most expensive one ever sold came in at $135,000 per carat. 

Do all months have two birthstones? 

Traditionally each month is associated with one birthstone, but you will find some months have multiple birthstones. This fact does create some confusion, but the multiple options for some months were created in order to allow more affordable options in addition to the traditional, more expensive stones.

Final Thoughts

Are you a September baby?  Which color of sapphire is your favorite? Let us know on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, or Twitter.

You can also read more about a particular birthstone in our related blog posts.

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Peridot is the perfect summery treat! Its grass-green hue pairs perfectly with those hazy, lazy, crazy days of summer. Wear the August birthstone as you sip a mint mojito by the side of the pool.

Looking for a gift for someone special born in August? Peridot Jewelry is here to end your search! Its bright yellow-green hue complements both cool and warm skin tones – plus, it looks stunning in any design. Peridot is a cosmic gemstone, perfect for an out-of-this-world gift or a gem you could easily treat yourself to.

If you want to know more about the peridot birthstone, read on to find out about its origin, meaning, symbolism, and other fun facts!

What Is The Birthstone For August

Did you know that August has three unique birthstones? Peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Peridot is the most famous of the three as it only exists in one color- a cosmic green.

Some cultures believed that peridot had the power to ward off evil spirits, and so they began to set the gem in gold and other precious metals to intensify its good fortune. Peridot jewelry began as goblets and decorated sword handles, all with the belief that these objects would now bring greatness, strength,  and power.  

Where Is Peridot Found?

Though not as popular as other gemstones, peridot is the only gem that comes in a single color and is formed in the earth’s mantle (the mostly-solid bulk of the earth’s interior). So, why is this cool? Well, the only other gem to be formed in the earth’s mantle is the diamond. All other gemstones (except pearls) are formed in the earth’s crust.

Peridot is mined in many parts of the world. It was first mined by Egyptians on an island (St John’s Island) located in the Dead Sea. Nowadays, it’s mined in countries like China, Brazil, Australia, Norway, and Pakistan.

August Birthstone Color

When we think of popular green gemstones, the first one that comes to mind is the emerald. After all, emeralds are the rarest and most valuable green gem we know of. However, there’s another green gemstone that deserves our attention, and it’s the August birthstone. Peridot is an exclusively green gemstone, and it’s widely used in birthstone jewelry. Its extraterrestrial color is one of the most important qualities of this special gem. 

Peridot can range from pure green to yellowish green, almost like a grass green shade. 

Peridot Birthstone Meaning & History

Peridot has been mined as a gemstone for over  4000  years and is even mentioned in the  Bible. It’s referred to in there by its original title, Chrysolite. The name Chrysolite was taken from the Ancient Greek word chrysolithos, meaning golden stone, as it often has flashes of gold seen within it. The August gemstone is the only famous member of the Olivine mineral family, which is a species of magnesium-rich silicate minerals.

Peridots have long been associated with Ancient Egypt. The Egyptians thought peridot protected against nightmares and brought the wearer confidence, good luck, and health. It’s believed that some of Cleopatra’s famous emeralds were actually peridots.

Peridot Birthstone Symbolism

Need some extra luck in your life? Peridot is one of the luckiest gemstones you’ll find. Peridot is also known as the money stone and increases willpower, well-being, and vitality. 

Peridot is known as the stone of compassion, and peridot is believed to bring its wearer good health, good cheer, restful sleep, and peace in their relationships by balancing emotions and mind. This green gemstone is also said to have the ability to inspire eloquence and creativity.

FAQs About The August Birthstone

What is peridot good for?

Peridot is good for protecting against negativity and easing anger. It’s a friendly gemstone that helps during difficult times and balances emotions. 

Is Peridot a rare gem? 

Peridot is a common mineral, but gem-quality peridot is fairly rare, with some peridot gems being found in exotic places. 

What zodiac is Peridot? 

The August birthstone belongs to the Leo star sign. 

Does peridot glow in the dark?

3000 years ago, the miners on Topazios Island didn’t work in the daytime because they believed that peridot was invisible in daylight. Since it could absorb the sun’s rays, it had the ability to glow in the dark, making it easier to mine at night. 

Can you wear Peridot every day?

Of course! Since peridot is a lucky stone with so much positive symbolism, it’s the perfect gem to wear every day. Make sure you have your peridot cleaned regularly to keep its color sparkling.

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Happy birthday to all our pearl-loving June babies! You’ve lucked out with this luminescent June birthstone. Gorgeous and affordable, this marine beauty upgrades any personal style. Read on for our favorite pearl birthstone jewelry gifts.

Let’s start off with a fun fact. Only two months out of the year have three birthstones, June and December. That means that June babies, aka Geminis and Cancers, are lucky enough to have some stunning stones to choose from, none better than the classic pearl. In our humble opinion, of course. 

What Is The June Birthstone?

Aside from moonstones and alexandrite, pearls are perhaps the most popular choice as June’s birthstone. Pearls are the only gemstone created from a living animal- the mollusk! They can be found in clams, oysters, and mussels. So, the next time you’re enjoying these shellfish, remember they’re also responsible for one of the world’s oldest gems. 

The June birthstone is extra special because it doesn’t need to be mined like other gems (natural pearls). In fact, it doesn’t need any specific cutting or polishing to look incredible. It just is! 

What Are The Different Types Of Pearls?

South Sea Pearl

Originally exclusive to Australia, South Sea pearls are now cultured in Indonesia, Burma, and the Philippines. Colors range from white pink and silver pink to dark gold. Australian pearls also come in fancy colors, including red gold which is extremely rare and highly regarded. These sizable pearls work well in strands and statement pieces.

Tahitian Pearl 

Often called black pearls, Tahitian pearls grow in the warm, turquoise lagoons of French Polynesia and other islands in the South Seas. Colors range from gray to black, shimmering with peacock green, gray, and purple overtones. Try these dark devils for an edgier look.

Akoya Pearl 

Coming from Japan, the most valued Akoya pearl colors are white and white with pink undertones. The most common of the cultured pearls, their roundness, nacre depth, and consistent luster have positioned them as the preferred choice for a timeless statement.

Freshwater Pearl 

Though originally produced in Japan, 90% of the world’s freshwater pearls now come from China. Supply is abundant and each shell can produce up to 100 pearls simultaneously. While typically irregular in color and shape, freshwater pearls are the most affordable and are widely used in sterling silver jewelry because of their availability.

How Is A Pearl Created?

There’s a big misconception that natural pearls are formed from a grain of salt when it’s actually the result of a parasite. The parasite lodges itself inside the mollusk, and as a defense, the animal emits a fluid called nacre. The fluid coats the irritant with milky layers of nacre, eventually forming a pearl. 

Given how popular pearls are, especially as bridal jewelry, pearl farmers have learned ways to recreate the natural process of pearl cultivation. These pearls are called ‘cultured pearls’ and come in a variety of hues. Along with the popular cream and white colors, farmers can create pearl jewelry in lilac, grey, and even black. 

Since natural pearls are rare and hard to find, cultured pearls are more common in the jewelry industry. Like lab grown diamonds, these pearls are just as real and exhibit the same high quality as natural pearls. 

Pearl Birthstone History

The world’s oldest pearl, the “Abu Dhabi Pearl,” dated back 8,000 years to the Neolithic period and was discovered in 2017 on Marawah Island, off the coast of Abu Dhabi. The oldest known pearl necklace was discovered in the sarcophagus of a Queen who died in 520 BC. 

Pearls, which were known in ancient Greece as the tears of the gods, have been worn and used as adornments for centuries. Only the very rich could afford them as they were extremely rare. As of the early 1900s, pearls have become more accessible because of commercial culturing and are a classic and affordable gemstone for nearly any budget. 

Pearl Birthstone Symbolism

Pearls, given their long history, have racked up a pretty good symbolism portfolio at this point. For some, pearls are symbolic of wisdom- hence the term “pearls of wisdom.” Moreover, they’re said to offer protection along with good luck and wealth. 

And if that weren’t a good enough reason to invest in this little gem, they’re also supposed to be symbolic of the wearer’s purity, kind nature, and generosity.

For those on their wedding day or anniversary, pearls represent the broader idea of seeing love as a treasure. Why? Because pearls were so hard to find and so rare, they became a treasure to anyone who found them. 

Why Should You  Buy A Pearl Engagement Ring And Pearl Jewelry?

1. Pearl engagement rings are a unique alternative to classic engagement rings.
2. Believe it or not, pearl engagement rings are the perfect budget-friendly option.
3. They’re the June Birthstone, something your June-born partner may appreciate.
4. They come in a variety of designs, from ring settings to metal, pearl sizes, and colors! 
5. Pearls go with everything, as will your pearl engagement ring.

FAQs

What is the true birthstone for June?

People born in June are lucky enough to have three true birthstones. These include pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. June is one of three months, including August and December, that have more than one stunning birthstone. 

Are there multiple birthstones for June?

Yes, June has three beautiful birthstones, pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone.

Why does June have 3 birthstones?

One of the main reasons June has three birthstones is because some ancient gemstones have become too rare and therefore aren’t as easily accessible on the market. 

What color is the birthstone for June?

Pearl birthstone comes in a variety of different colors, from white to black/grey, and even pink. Alexandrite can change colors depending on the light from bluish-green to purplish red. 

Why is June’s birthstone the pearl?

To astrologists, the pearl represents the birthstone for June. They also say that the gem is aligned with the zodiac sign of Gemini.

Is alexandrite more expensive than diamonds?

Alexandrite and diamonds have a similar value and it’s not uncommon to find alexandrite jewelry priced the same as diamonds. This is because alexandrite gemstones are becoming rarer. 

What is the rarest birthstone?

Painite is the rarest gemstone. It’s not just the rarest gemstone, but also the rarest mineral on earth. 

How much is alexandrite worth?

Currently, it’s said that a 1-carat alexandrite gem can go up to $15,000.

Final Thoughts

For more about pearls and other birthstone jewelry, check out our related pearl posts! We’re always happy to help you find the perfect gift whether it’s for yourself or that special person in your life. Visit us at JamesAllen.com today and find out what fine jewelry, engagement rings, and wedding rings are perfect for you!

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Tap your heels together three times and repeat after us: there’s no birthstone like ruby, there’s no birthstone like ruby, there’s no birthstone like ruby.

What Is The July Birthstone? 

Ruby, the July birthstone, is a lustrous, blood-red color stone that has been prized for millennia. Rubies are mentioned multiple times in the bible, were described by Pliny in the first century AD, and are named “the king of gems” – ratnaraj – in Sanskrit. Traditionally mined in South Asia, and in particular Thailand and Myanmar, they made their way via the Silk Road to all corners of the ancient world. 

The History Of The July Birthstone

Though rubies likely rose to royal status first in ancient India, they were quickly adopted into noble families wherever they went. Jaw-dropping ruby jewelry sets are currently worn by the royal families of England, Denmark, and Portugal. And a bit further back, Marco Polo wrote that the Chinese emperor Kublai Khan, upon visiting the ruby mines of Sri Lanka, was so taken by the gems’ beauty that he offered to trade a whole city for one particularly massive scarlet stone. 

The Color Of Ruby 

Color is the most significant factor affecting a ruby’s value. The finest ruby has a pure, vibrant red to slightly purplish red color. In most markets, pure red colors command the highest prices, and ruby with overtones of orange and purple are less valued. The color must be neither too dark nor too light to be considered the finest quality. If the color is too dark, it has a negative effect on the stone’s brightness. 

At the other extreme, if the color is too light, the stone may be considered to be a pink sapphire, even if the color strength or intensity is high. That said, pink sapphires enjoy a following, at a far more competitive price than rubies. Ultimately, the most desirable color of ruby is the one you prefer the most.

Ruby Gemstone Meaning & Symbolism

Ruby gemstones enjoy a wealth of special ruby meanings, among them passion, love, wisdom, wealth, and power.

Ancient Hindus believed those who offered rubies to the god Krishna would be emperors in future life. People in India and Burma also believed that rubies provided safety and peace, and medieval Europeans thought these gems guaranteed health, wealth, wisdom, and success in love.

The ruby’s depth of history and meaning certainly makes them one of the more impressive birthstones; July babies are lucky enough to have an excuse to wear these charming gems year-round.

7 Fun Facts About Rubies

1. Ruby is one of the four precious gemstones. The others are emerald, sapphire, and diamond.
2. The word ruby comes from the Latin Rubens, which means red.  Rubies are found in many shades of red, from rich darkish red to pigeon blood red and pinkish red.  The red hue comes from traces of the mineral chromium. The most precious rubies are those with a full, rich red color with just a hint of blue tones.
3. A ruby is a pink to blood-red colored gemstone, a variety of the mineral corundum. Other varieties of gem-quality corundum are called sapphires.
4. Ruby is the birthstone for July. It is also a traditional gift for those celebrating their 15th or 40th anniversary.
5. Rubies are extremely strong, registering 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. They are as resilient as sapphires and only slightly softer than diamonds.
6. Rubies have been found all over the world, including in Myanmar (formerly Burma), Africa, Australia, and the USA.  Most of the finest rubies were mined in Myanmar, thus the finest rubies are now known as “Burmese Rubies”.
7. Almost all rubies have flaws –  Rubies without imperfections are exceptionally rare.  In fact, that is one way that a ruby is authenticated – if it has no inclusions, it is likely not a genuine ruby!

The July Birthstone: Ruby Rings

A ruby ring is the perfect birthstone gift. Special, singular, and super scarlet – gifting a beautiful ruby in a meaningful setting will melt the heart of any July birthday. The ultimate advantage of a ruby ring? The wearer can always see it. They’ll hold it up to the light, wiggle their fingers, and let your ruby birthstone ring shine.

The July Birthstone: Ruby Engagement Rings

Rubies have a long history of symbolizing love, passion, romance, courage, and protection. This beautiful symbolism makes them a perfect center stone for your engagement ring.

Ruby engagement rings aren’t just a unique twist on the traditional diamond ring, but they offer a sense of personalized style and will certainly make you stand out from the crowd.

The July Birthstone: Ruby Necklaces

A ruby necklace is the birthstone gift for the extroverted July birthday. It makes its wearer an instant subject of attention. What’s better than a stunning ruby pendant to punctuate a grand entrance?

The July Birthstone: Ruby Bracelets

Make your very special July baby feel even more glorious with a diamond and ruby bracelet customized to them. Or slip on a ruby bangle and start celebrating. 

The July Birthstone: Ruby Earrings

Studded diamond and ruby earrings are cute additions to your gemstone wardrobe. Popping on these sparkling ruby hoops is the simple formula for an instant good day. Or if you’re a simple stud lover, try on a pair of halo ruby studs for maximum sparkle.

Rubies are bold gemstones with a deep-rooted royal history. Anyone with a July birthday has lucked out since the ruby is a birthstone with gusto. Extremely durable, this scarlet stone can be worn all the way to your next July birthday with minimal upkeep needed. Gifting ruby jewelry is a surefire way to memorably mark your next July milestone.

More About Gemstones

We hope you found this helpful! If you’re looking to know more about gemstones, or you’re curious to learn more about a particular birthstone, check out our related blogs below! 

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