What is Sapphire
Sapphire is a precious gemstone variety of the mineral corundum (aluminium oxide), renowned for its exceptional hardness (9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamond) and vibrant colours. While the classic sapphire is a deep blue—caused by traces of iron and titanium—sapphires occur in nearly every colour except red (red corundum is classified as ruby). These non-blue varieties are known as “fancy sapphires”.
Ancient Symbolism: Wisdom & Strength
Ancient civilisations revered sapphire for its rich blue hue, reminiscent of the heavens and the vast sky. Associated with divine power, it was believed to offer protection, healing, and spiritual insight. Leaders and rulers in ancient Greece and Rome often carried sapphires as talismans for guidance, wisdom, and blessings from the gods.
September Birthstone
The tradition of birthstones dates back to the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus in the Bible. This sacred garment, worn by the High Priest of the Israelites, featured 12 gemstones representing the 12 tribes of Israel. Over centuries, these stones became linked to zodiac signs and months. The modern birthstone list was standardised in 1912 by the National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America) in the United States, assigning sapphire as the birthstone for September.
Sapphire Anniversary
Symbolising integrity, fidelity, and loyalty, sapphire is the traditional gemstone for the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries. In British royal tradition, a Sapphire Jubilee celebrates a monarch’s 65 years on the throne—Queen Elizabeth II marked this milestone in 2017, becoming the first British monarch to do so.
Royal Blue
Sapphire’s associations with protection, power, and wealth have made it a favourite among royalty throughout history. The opulent Peacock Throne, commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (also builder of the Taj Mahal) in the 17th century, was lavishly encrusted with gold and sapphires and took seven years to complete.
The British Royal Family has a particularly storied connection with sapphires. The Stuart Sapphire, a 104-carat stone dating back to the 17th century, remains part of the Imperial State Crown in the Crown Jewels. In 1840, Prince Albert gifted Queen Victoria a sapphire-and-diamond brooch, which she wore as her “something blue” on their wedding day and designated as a crown heirloom in her will. The tradition continued in 1981 when Prince Charles proposed to Lady Diana Spencer with a 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire ring surrounded by 14 diamonds. This iconic ring was later passed to Catherine, Princess of Wales, upon her engagement to Prince William in 2010.
Lotus blossom: Padparadscha
Among fancy sapphires, Padparadscha is considered the rarest and most coveted. Named after the Sinhalese word for “lotus blossom,” it exhibits a delicate salmon-pink to orange-pink hue, resulting from a precise balance of chromium (for pink/red tones) and iron (for yellow). Iron can cause colour fading in other yellow sapphires, making stable Padparadscha shades exceptionally rare. The term was first applied to this specific corundum colour in 1932 by gemmologist Dr. Max Bauer, though it has since become highly prized in the trade.
List of Famous Sapphires
- Rockefeller Sapphire
- Napoléon’s sapphire diamond engagement ring for Joséphine
- Star of India
- Sapphire and Diamond Brooch by Cartier
- Sapphires Richelieu
- Stuart Sapphire
- Blue Belle of Asia
Founded in 1991, EJI is a Hong Kong-based fine jewellery manufacturer specialising in high-quality designs for global brands and private labels. Certified by the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), we combine traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to create bespoke and trend-setting jewellery. From gold and diamond pieces to vibrant gemstone collections, EJI delivers excellence to markets in Europe, Asia, the Americas, and beyond.
Sapphire is celebrated for its deep blue brilliance, durability, and timeless appeal, making it a cornerstone in luxury jewellery collections. Its prestige and versatility ensure strong demand across global markets.
Sapphire is traditionally associated with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Its symbolism enhances its value in fine jewellery, offering business owners a gemstone that conveys both elegance and emotional resonance.
As a gemstone linked to royalty and enduring love, Sapphire is ideal for high‑end collections and milestone occasions. Its reputation for strength and clarity makes it a powerful addition to anniversary and bridal jewellery.
EJI incorporates Sapphire into refined earrings, rings, and necklaces crafted in 18K gold, combining expert craftsmanship with gemstone brilliance. This enables jewellery business owners to deliver premium designs that captivate global buyers.