Sapphire is a classic gemstone known for its rich blue color. It stands as a symbol of intelligence, wisdom, and good judgment, serving as September’s official birthstone.
Holistically, people have worn sapphire for centuries to promote calmness and manage depression. Creatively, this stone represents a deeper level of thought, ideal for philosophers to artists.
If you want to spot real sapphire jewelry, look no further than Hollywood red carpets where stars like Penelope Cruz and Heidi Klum can be found accessorizing with the popular gemstone. Members of the royal family, like Kate Middleton, are also fans of vintage sapphire gems.
You can learn a lot about a gemstone’s history from those who wear them.
Discover even more facts about this sparkling precious gemstone.
Sapphire and the Ancient Greeks
Did the sapphire trend start with the ancient Greeks themselves?
The color blue also symbolizes the heavens. Thus, these ancient civilizations may have worn blue sapphires to feel closer to the Gods.
For ages, this stone has represented wisdom, even today. Ancient Greeks likely wore this precious gemstone when seeking advice from oracles.
Ancient Buddhists, Hebrews, and More
The sapphire tradition continued throughout history and around the world.
In the east, ancient Buddhists integrated sapphires into their culture as they believed the gemstone represented spiritual enlightenment. Similarly, ancient Hindu practitioners incorporated sapphire into acts of worship. The leaders of early Christianity saw the gemstone as a protective stone, including it in ecclesiastical rings.
In India, Kashmir was home to a violet-colored sapphire between the 19th and 20th centuries. Sapphires from the region still set records, selling for over $6.7 million as recently as 2015; that’s approximately $242,000 per carat.
Sapphire and the Royal Family
Perhaps, the most notable celebrities in history with a strong connection to sapphire is the British Royal Family.
By the early 1980s, the precious gemstone represented royal love and marriage.
Kate Middleton continued the tradition handed down by the late Princess Diana of wearing the iconic 12-carat sapphire engagement ring.
Famous and Real Sapphire Jewelry
Beyond the royal family, you’ll find a treasure trove of famous sapphire rings and jewelry.
One of the most famous pieces to date is the legendary Star Of India Sapphire. Weighing at more than 560 carats, it stands as the second-largest sapphire in existence. The gemstone was originally donated to the American Museum of Natural History by J.P. Morgan.
The Smithsonian Institute is home to the famous Logan Blue Sapphire. This gemstone hails from Sri Lanka and is known for having zero internal flaws. It’s named after its original owner, Mrs. John A Logan.
A familiar name on this list, Rockefeller, is the namesake of this next sapphire. Its signature cornflower blue has captivated gemologists for years.
At one time, it was also in the hands of the Maharaja in the 1930s.
These stories serve as wonderful inspiration when you want to buy customized sapphire rings.
Remember the History of the Sapphire
The stories behind real sapphire jewelry span the globe, time periods, and culture.
Think about the stories your own jewelry holds.
Discover even more fascinating facts and topics in the blog!