Every month has a birthstone, based on
early astrological associations. For those of you born in September,
your birthstone is the sapphire, a blue stone that is mineralogically
related to the ruby. Sapphire jewelry is the most common usage of
this gemstone, as it appears in everything from necklaces to
earrings, based on the size and composition of the stone.
About Sapphires
The sapphire is a primarily
blue-colored stone that is found in many different countries,
including Australia, Myanmar, Columbia, India, Kenya, Nepal, Sri
Lanka, and the United States. The gemstone is categorized much like
the ruby, and is therefore ranked according to its hue, tone and
color saturation. Although sapphires are mostly blue in color, they
can be also be green, purple, yellow, black and violet. There is also
a type of sapphires called “star sapphires.” These stones are
indeed sapphires, with one important difference – at their centers
are a thin type of inclusion made up of a white-colored mineral that
is related to titanium dioxide. This mineral forms a star-like shape
that is visible through the sapphire’s exterior, hence its name.
Sapphire Necklaces and Bracelets
Sapphire necklaces can be designed in
one of three ways: they can consist of a single sapphire suspended
from a chain, or they can be set into a larger pendant alongside
other stones, such as diamonds. (This pairing of clear diamonds and
deep blue sapphires is a popular one.) The third idea, called a
“tennis necklace” after the popular style of bracelet, consists
of many smaller sapphires inset into a series of links that are
connected into a chain. Bracelets are also designed in this manner,
although some can feature the sapphires merely as large accent
stones, meant to overpower the smaller diamonds inset into the links.
Sapphire Earrings and Rings
Sapphire earrings are designed as
either simple studs (appropriate for smaller stones, as well as
larger ones) or in elaborate chandelier styles. These earrings, like
the pendants mentioned above, tend to have diamond accents. They
dangle from your ears, go great with evening and formal wear, and
tend to leave a large impact on anyone who sees you. Some sapphire
rings also have diamonds inset alongside the larger, blue stone. They
make excellent non-traditional engagement rings, in the style of the
one given to Duchess Kate by her now-husband, Prince William.
However, a sapphire ring can be worn on any finger, and used for any
purpose: an anniversary or birthday gift, or a ‘just because I’m
successful’ present.
You can wear the sapphire gemstone
jewelry of your choice with just about anything. A necklace,
bracelet, ring or smaller set of earrings (such as studs) can go with
a dress, a work-related suit, or even a nice pair of jeans worn with
boots while out on the town. It’s hard to go wrong with pieces that
feature this classic gemstone.
