SAPPHIRES: A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY, MEANING, AND ENDURING LUXURY
April 1st, 2025
Sapphires hold a place of reverence in the world of gemstones, captivating cultures across the globe with their brilliant hues and timeless beauty. The history of sapphires can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where they were considered not only symbols of beauty but also of power and protection. The word "sapphire" is derived from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning "blue," a reference to the gemstone’s most iconic colour. Although blue sapphires dominate the gemstone’s identity, sapphires can also be found in an array of other colours, including pink, yellow, green, and even rare white varieties, known as "colourless" sapphires.
The earliest known sources of sapphires can be traced back to ancient Sri Lanka, which has been producing these precious stones for over two millennia. Today, Sri Lanka remains one of the most important sources of high-quality sapphires, prized for their deep blue tones. Other notable sources include Myanmar, Thailand, Madagascar, and Australia. In recent years, the discovery of sapphire deposits in new regions, such as Montana in the United States, has further broadened the availability and appeal of these sought-after gems.
Throughout history, sapphires have been imbued with powerful symbolic meanings, from medieval times when they were believed to protect their wearer from envy and harm, to modern-day interpretations as a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. In the Middle Ages, clergy wore sapphires to symbolize purity and piety, while monarchs believed the gemstone could ward off ill fortune. In more contemporary times, sapphires gained widespread popularity as a symbol of eternal love, often seen in wedding jewellery. One of the most famous modern associations is the sapphire engagement ring worn by Princess Diana, and later by Kate Middleton, which further solidified the gemstone’s connection to royalty.
The value of a sapphire is determined by several factors, including its colour, clarity, size, and origin. Among these, colour is the most important criterion. The ideal sapphire is a rich, velvety blue, with neither too much green nor violet in its tone. The most prized sapphires are often referred to as "Kashmir" sapphires, named after the region in India, where they were first discovered in the 19th century. These stones are renowned for their deep, intense blue and their rarity, making them among the most valuable sapphires on the market today. While Kashmir sapphires are rare and nearly impossible to find in modern markets, sapphires from other locations, including Sri Lanka and Myanmar, also command high prices based on their exceptional colour and quality.
In the realm of high jewellery, sapphires are cherished not only for their beauty but also for their durability. Rated 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, sapphires are second only to diamonds in terms of toughness, making them a practical choice for pieces designed for everyday wear. Furthermore, sapphires pair beautifully with a variety of metals, including platinum, white gold, and yellow gold, allowing designers the freedom to create pieces that are as versatile as they are luxurious.
The contemporary value of sapphires continues to rise, with demand for rare and untreated stones growing in line with global trends toward sustainability and integrity. In the world of high jewellery, sapphires remain a beacon of beauty and significance.
Visit Humbertown Jewellers to discover the beauty of sapphire jewellery in the context of extraordinary design, craftsmanship, and customer service.
