Sapphire

Sapphire is a variety of corundum (aluminum oxide), the same mineral as ruby. With a hardness of 9, it's the second-hardest natural gemstone after diamond—perfect for jewelry made to be worn for a lifetime.

It forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks under immense temperatures and pressures, and its blue color comes from tiny traces of iron and titanium within the crystal structure.

Although blue is the most famous, corundum appears in nearly every color—pink, yellow, green, orange—called “fancy” sapphires. Only the red variety has its own name: ruby.

Treasured since Antiquity as the stone of the heavens and of royalty, it has been associated with divine protection; bishops and kings wore it as a symbol of wisdom and faith.

The world’s most famous sapphire is likely the 12-carat gem on Princess Diana’s engagement ring, chosen by her directly from a Garrard catalog—a move that caused a stir, as anyone could, in theory, order the same piece.

Today, the same ring shines on the hand of the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, after Prince William used his mother’s jewel to propose—bringing the blue sapphire back to the forefront of fashion.

The classic hue ranges from light blue to a deep, velvety blue. The most coveted stones have a saturated, but not overly dark, color with lively brilliance.

The most storied sapphires come from Kashmir (a mythic “velvety” blue), from Burma, and from Sri Lanka, mined for thousands of years.

Some sapphires reveal a six-rayed “star” (asterism), caused by fine needle-like inclusions within the stone—star sapphires are especially sought after.

A symbol of loyalty, truth, and wisdom, sapphire is the birthstone of September and a traditional gift for the 45th wedding anniversary.

With a hardness of 9, it’s remarkably scratch-resistant and ideal for everyday wear, including in rings. It only needs protection from very hard knocks.

It cleans easily with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. Its tone is beautifully showcased in both 925 silver and white gold, in elegant, statement-worthy pieces.