In continuing with what I love most about gemology, I'd like to tell you a little about the birthstone for September...the sapphire.

  'Sapphire' comes from the Greek word 'Sappheiros' meaning 'blue'.  Starting from the beginning the ancient Persians believed that the actual Earth sat upon a huge sapphire, thus giving the reflection and making the sky blue.  Back then a sapphire was worn to protect harm.  The sapphire would protect the wearer from envy.  It was seen as a symbol of sincerity, truth, and constancy.  Legend has it that if a poisonous snake was placed next to a sapphire, the rays from the gem would kill the snake!  That's why it was believed that the sapphire was an antidote against poison. 

  Sapphire rings have been popular since the Middle Ages.  Clergy men favored sapphires because the color represented heaven.  The British have a long history with the sapphire.  Sapphires adorn the cross on the Imperial Crown and I'm sure you remember the sapphire and diamond ring given to Lady Diana by Prince Charles.

  Sapphire is the official birthstone for the month of September as well as the 5th, 23rd, and 45th wedding anniversaries with a star sapphire given for the 65th anniversary.