Sapphire Gemstone Jewelry use and History - By: blog.RubyLane.com

The name "Sapphire" comes from the Latin word "Sapphirus " meaning "Blue" and is said to be a symbol of Saturn (dark blue) and Venus (Light blue). Known as September's birthstone, it is also the stone for the zodiac signs of Aries, Cancer, Taurus and Libra and can be given as a gem on the 5th and 45th wedding anniversary.Because it was believed to promote constancy and sincerity, sapphire has been popular among royalty often used as an alternative to diamonds in engagement rings. I'm sure many of us can recall the magnificent Sapphire and Diamond engagement ring that was given to Princess Diana from Prince Charles back in the early 1980's. According to legend, Sapphire is a symbol of heaven and joyful devotion to God often called the stone of destiny. A very powerful stone, it was thought to promote prosperity as well as transform negative emotions into joy and love. In medicine, it was thought to ward off infection and was often used to treat disorders of the eyes and skin. It was also believed to contribute to mental clarity and to sooth sore throats.

Sapphires, or corundum crystal is made up of aluminum oxide which has been exposed to high temperatures and pressure. The most common forms of sapphires are formed when titanium particles are present in the corundum creating a blue color. Traces of other minerals in the corundum can create different colors or fancy Sapphires, ie iron will cause the color to be green or yellow while chromium will produce pink and vanadium will create purple shades.

Sapphires found in India, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka (Ceylon) are among the most desirable. Burma sapphires are known for their pure blue colors while Ceylon sapphires are collected for their pastel blue shades as well as their fancy color variations. In addition to Africa, Australia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand and the USA (Montana, North Carolina), sapphires have been found in Brazil, Cambodia, India, Madagascar, Tanzania and Vietnam.

Sapphire is one of the most durable gems second only to diamonds on the hardness scale making them ideal for jewelry that is worn frequently. When buying sapphires, look at the purity of their color including the depth and tone and color saturation choosing sapphires that are not too light and not too dark.

Known as the stone of power, love and healing, Sapphire is the perfect choice for jewelry set in silver, gold, or platinum and wonderful to give for any occasion, not to be limited to only those born during the month of September or under the zodiac signs of Aries, Cancer, Taurus or Libra.

Sapphire gemstones use and history of the Blue sapphire stone. A powerful stone that invokes love and can be used to heal the Sapphire has a rich and wonderful history.

Deb Gallagher
Island Vintage Jewelry

http://islandvintagejewelry.rubylane.com