September Birthstone - The Definitive Guide (2024)

Factors to Consider When Choosing the September Birthstone

September Birthstone Color

• Blue Shades: Deep, vibrant blue is the most well-known color for a sapphire, and is primarily caused by the presence of trace elements like iron and titanium within the gemstone's crystal structure. The specific shade of blue can vary depending on the amount of these elements, with sapphires ranging from light sky blue to rich royal blue. The most valuable and rare sapphires tend to have a deep, velvety blue with violet undertones.
• Variety of Colors: In addition to blue, sapphires come in a variety of other colors, referred to as fancy sapphires. These include pink, yellow, green, purple, and even colorless (white). The intensity of color can significantly affect the stone's value, with more saturated hues being more prized.
• Undertones: Lighter blue sapphires or those with grey or greenish undertones are generally less valuable, but they can still make beautiful and unique jewelry pieces.
• Rarest and Most Valuable Colors: The rarest and most valuable sapphires include the Kashmir sapphire, known for its velvety cornflower blue hue. Royal blue sapphires from regions like Sri Lanka are also highly prized for their deep, saturated blue tones. Burma sapphires are highly prized for their exceptional quality and deep, vivid blue color. These sapphires are known for their rich saturation and excellent clarity, often rivaling Kashmir sapphires in value.

Healing Properties of the September Birthstone

• Stone of Wisdom: Sapphire, often called the "stone of wisdom," is believed to enhance mental clarity and insight, helping to focus the mind and improve decision-making. It is also thought to promote calmness and inner peace, aiding in emotional balance and reducing stress.
• Protection: As the September birthstone, sapphire is believed to offer strong protective qualities, shielding its wearer from negative energies and misfortune. It also promotes peace and security, helping to balance emotions and build resilience during challenging times.
• Physical Healing Properties: Sapphire is believed to help with ailments related to the eyes, improving vision and easing eye strain. It is also thought to support overall healing of the skin and soothe throat-related issues, enhancing physical well-being.

Sapphire Inclusions

• Natural Imperfections: Sapphires often contain natural inclusions, which are tiny internal characteristics formed during the gemstone's growth. These inclusions can include needles, crystals, or small fractures and are typically a sign of the stone's authenticity.
• Silk: While fewer visible inclusions can increase a sapphire's value, some inclusions, like the "silk" effect (tiny needle-like inclusions), can enhance the gem's beauty by softening its color and giving it a velvety appearance.

September Birthstone Meaning & Symbolism

The September birthstone, traditionally associated with the sapphire, holds special meanings and symbolism that resonate with Virgo individuals and their unique characteristics.

Virgo & Libra

• Zodiac Signs: The zodiac signs associated with the September birthstone, sapphire, are Virgo (August 23 - September 22) and Libra (September 23 - October 22).
• Forty-Fifth Wedding Anniversary: Sapphire symbolizes lasting loyalty, wisdom, and strength in a marriage, making it the perfect gemstone to celebrate 45 years of enduring love and commitment.
• Fifth Wedding Anniversary: Sapphire symbolizes truth, loyalty, and sincerity, making it an ideal gift for celebrating five years of a strong and trusting marriage. Its durability and beauty reflect the enduring bond between partners.

“Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."

—Chloe G verified buyer

Wisdom and Truth

• Promotes Wisdom and Truth: Sapphire is believed to promote mental focus and spiritual insight, helping individuals make clear, sound decisions and stay true to their core values. Its calming energy is thought to enhance wisdom and clarity, guiding personal and spiritual growth.

Honesty and Sincerity

• Faithfulness: Sapphire is thought to foster honesty, sincerity, and faithfulness, making it a symbol of deep trust and loyalty in relationships. It is often associated with strengthening bonds and encouraging truthfulness between partners.

Crown Chakra

• Crown Chakra Connection: The Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) is the seventh chakra, located at the top of the head, and is associated with spiritual connection, enlightenment, and higher consciousness. It is believed to govern wisdom, self-awareness, and a deep sense of peace. When balanced, the Crown Chakra promotes a sense of unity with the universe, helping individuals feel connected to a higher purpose.

Celebrity

If you have an appreciation for the glamour of Hollywood and the world of cinema, wearing a sapphire ring can be a delightful choice, knowing that it's a beloved gemstone among numerous celebrities and even royalty. This elegant style has graced the hands of renowned personalities, counting among its enthusiasts the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Princess Diana, and Kate Middleton.

Sapphire History

• Ancient Popularity: In ancient Greece and Rome, rulers and nobility wore sapphires as a symbol of protection and wisdom. Sapphires were also worn by clergy in the Middle Ages, symbolizing purity and connection to the divine.
• Victorian Era: During the Victorian era, sapphire became a popular gemstone, symbolizing loyalty, truth, and nobility. Queen Victoria herself was known to wear sapphires, which helped elevate the gemstone’s status as a symbol of royal elegance and sentimentality. Sapphires were frequently used in engagement rings and jewelry pieces, often set in intricate designs typical of the romantic and ornate Victorian style.
• Art Deco Era: In the Art Deco era (1920s—1930s), sapphire became a prominent gemstone in bold, geometric designs that defined this period's jewelry. Jewelers often paired sapphires with diamonds and other colorful gemstones to create striking contrast and eye-catching pieces.
• Modern Era: In the modern era, sapphire continues to be a symbol of elegance, luxury, and timeless beauty. Its popularity surged in 1981 when Prince Charles gave Princess Diana a stunning blue sapphire engagement ring, which is now worn by Kate Middleton, solidifying sapphire’s association with royalty and prestige.

Sapphire Crystal Uses

Sapphires are often used in homeopathic and alternative practices, such as meditation, energy healing, and spiritual ceremonies. These gemstones are believed to align the throat and third eye chakras, promoting mental clarity, communication, and spiritual insight. Sapphires are also thought to enhance focus, calm the mind, and foster emotional balance, making them ideal for meditation and stress relief. Their energy is said to promote wisdom and protection, making them valuable additions to altars, sacred spaces, or even crystal grids. For optimal spiritual benefits, sapphires can be used in both natural light and during moments of quiet reflection, where their deep hues are said to help connect the wearer to higher consciousness and inner peace.

“My experience with Vintage Diamond Ring was so excellent I really had to think about it for a while. First their selection of jewelry is profound. The quality is superior.”

—Claude P verified buyer

Vintage Sapphire Rings and Jewelry

As the September birthstone, sapphires have been cherished for centuries and can be found in a wide range of vintage rings and jewelry styles. Frequently cut into classic shapes like ovals, cushions, or even the "emerald" cut, sapphires are designed to maximize their rich color and brilliance. They are often set in intricate designs inspired by nature, such as floral or vine motifs, particularly in jewelry from the Victorian era. Sapphires were also highly popular during the Art Deco period, where their bold, deep hues complemented the geometric and symmetrical designs of the time.

Sapphires are incredibly versatile, coordinating beautifully with both yellow gold and white gold settings. They are often paired with diamonds for extra sparkle or used as striking accents alongside other colored gemstones like rubies or emeralds. Vintage sapphire pieces are found in many forms, from rings and brooches to earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, making them a timeless choice for any jewelry collection.

Choosing the September Birthstone

Looking for the perfect piece of vintage sapphire jewelry or a meaningful gift for a September birthday? Explore our collection of vintage sapphire rings and jewelry, each one offering a unique blend of history, elegance, and the deep beauty of the September birthstone. Whether you're searching for an iconic engagement ring or a timeless accessory, find your perfect sapphire piece today and embrace the lasting charm of this precious gemstone. Shop now to add a touch of royal elegance to your collection!

Vintage Engagement Rings For Everyone:

No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.

Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:

Vintage rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. If you're looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of September Birthstone Rings today!

Suzanne Sachs

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.

Contact Suzanne

If you love vintage or eco-friendly jewelry please feel free to contact Suzanne or browse our collection of eco-friendly vintage engagement rings.