For centuries, sapphires have adorned the crowns of royalty and captivated jewelry collectors with their deep, mesmerizing blue hues. Antique and vintage jewelry carries a rich legacy, from the regal courts of the Victorian era to the geometric elegance of the Art Deco period.
Whether you're exploring the unconventional grace of colored gemstone engagement rings or are intent on investing in an exquisite piece of sapphire jewelry, it can be a joy to learn about this gem's historical significance, care, and symbolism – so long as you’ve found a reputable jeweler with a no-pressure approach who can answer your questions…
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Can sapphires be any other colors besides blue?
While sapphires are most often blue, they embody a truly spectacular array of colors from white sapphires that dazzle like diamonds to pinks and purples that’ll take your breath away! The only color sapphires don’t come in is red as those are technically classed as rubies despite being the same crystalline structure; while they share a common mineral composition as part of the corundum family, their differences lie in their color and the trace elements responsible for their hue.
Sapphires can even have multiple distinct colors, as is the case with parti sapphires, which are often cut and faceted to best showcase the stone’s unique play of light. Sapphires can also feature a desirable inclusion known as an asterism; these gems, commonly called ‘star sapphires’ are often cut in a cabochon to highlight its unique beauty.
Why are sapphires so popular for engagement rings and other jewelry?
With an endless array of colors, a hardiness second only to diamonds, and an ancient belief that sapphires inspire fidelity in a marriage, this gorgeous gem is perfect as a center stone or accent stone for an engagement ring.
Though Queen Victoria was famously gifted a sapphire brooch by husband Prince Albert on their wedding day (and later that year, a sapphire coronet to match), perhaps the best-known sapphire engagement ring belonged to the late Princess Diana and was later given by her son, Prince William, to Princess Kate Middleton.
The iconic faceted sapphire surrounded by a halo of glittering diamonds was a popular design for many decades made undeniably timeless by its spotlight in the royal family and can be seen in rings, pendants, earrings, and more.
What are common gifting traditions associated with sapphires like birthstones and anniversary celebrations?
As the designated birthstone for September, sapphires make particularly meaningful gifts for those born in the month, or for loved ones celebrating a September birthday—such as with a personalized piece of Mother’s jewelry. The tradition of wearing birthstones for protection and good fortune dates back to ancient cultures, but it gained widespread popularity during the Victorian era, when Tiffany & Co. introduced a poem highlighting the metaphysical qualities of each month’s gemstone. It includes:
A maiden born when autumn leaves
Are rustling in September's breeze,
A Sapphire on her brow should bind;
'Twill cure diseases of the mind.
Sapphires are also the traditional gift for a 45th wedding anniversary, although we believe their timeless beauty makes them a fitting gift for any special occasion. Sapphire’s lucious blue hue has often been associated with depth and sincerity, which speaks to the beauty and peace that comes with longstanding love.
What do sapphires symbolize or mean in other cultures and throughout history?
Sapphires have long been noted for their symbolic significance and captivated humanity for thousands of years, reflecting their enduring allure and importance.
Throughout history and within many cultures across the globe, the deep blue color of sapphires has been associated with the heavens and celestial realm. Often worn when someone was seeking divine guidance or spiritual protection, sapphires were commonly used by oracles in ancient times.
By the Middle Ages, the notion that sapphires held metaphysical properties (along with some key scientific misunderstandings) led many to believe that the gemstone held the power to cure ailing eyesight, reveal hidden truths, and more.
The supposed supernatural power of sapphires would once again gain attention during the Victorian era when famed explorer Sir Richard Francis Burton credited his beloved star sapphire talisman for many safe and successful voyages. Since then, sapphires have been seen as a symbol of good fortune.
How should you clean and care for your sapphire jewelry? Are there any special care instructions for antique sapphire jewelry?
Sapphires are generally easier to care for compared to many other colored gemstones due to their exceptional hardness (second only to diamonds!). However, antique sapphire jewelry demands special attention to ensure its historical integrity and preserve its delicate craftsmanship.
A gentle cleaning with lukewarm water, mild soap, and a soft-bristled toothbrush is ideal for maintaining sapphire jewelry. Ensure that the jewelry is thoroughly rinsed and gently dried with a lint-free cloth, taking extra precautions to safeguard against losing pieces near drains or small openings.
Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, especially when dealing with antique jewelry. For deep cleanings and regular maintenance, consider taking your antique sapphire jewelry to a professional jeweler with the expertise and tools to safely clean your pieces while inspecting the setting checking for loose stones and other signs of damage. If you’re local to the Nashville area, we welcome walk-ins and appointments for complimentary cleanings and more at our beautiful Main Street showroom.
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At Walton’s Jewelry, we have more than 50 years of experience serving Historic Downtown Franklin and the greater Nashville community. Each member of our team has trained at The Gemological Institute of America and has a deep passion for preserving the history and beauty of antique jewelry. Whether you are a Tennessee local looking to stop by our showroom, or prefer to view our selection virtually, we invite you to explore our newest arrivals and reach out with any questions you may have.
