Sapphire is a variety of the mineral species corundum. It is a very durable stone. Sapphires are usually blue and range from the prettiest cornflower blue through deep indigo to almost black. The difference is that red corundum specifically makes rubies and all other colours of corundum are called sapphires.
The blue sapphire was once thought to protect the body from lust and snakes! It is said to help the confused think clearly and help soften thoughts of hate and anger making for a mellower peaceful person.
The name corundum comes from the ancient Sanskrit "kuruvindam", while the name "Sapphire" comes from the Persian word "safir", meaning "beloved of Saturn", (or Greek sapphiros). It is noted in several texts that sapphire was the lapis lazuli of the ancient world, probably because the stones both have the same intense blue coloring.
Sapphire is mined in Australia, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Other producers are Burma, Kampuchea, Kenya and Tanzania. Sapphires are commonly heated to improve their color and reduce cloudiness that is caused by rutile inclusions. The rutile inclusions are responsible for the "star" or "cat's eye" in star sapphires.
Sapphire symbolizes prosperity and sincerity. Sapphire is said to be helpful in bringing joy and peace of mind by making one more receptive to beauty and intuition.
It really is one of the prettiest gemstones and looks wonderful when the jewellery item is enhanced with diamonds or other deep toned gems like emeralds or rubies.
For all of you celebrating a birthday this month, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
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