What Is My Birthstone?
September Birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphire
Sapphire is the September birthstone. Most people think of the deep royal blue, but sapphire is corundum in every color except red, so pink, yellow, green, white and the rare orange-pink padparadscha are all sapphires.
Sapphire's hardness of 9 makes it ideal for engagement rings and heirloom pieces. Kashmir, Burma and Sri Lanka produce the most celebrated blues, and Montana sapphires from the United States are increasingly popular.
Lapis lazuli is the ancient alternate for September; many historians think the sapphires described in old texts were actually lapis, because its deep blue flecked with golden pyrite matches the descriptions.
September birthstones at a glance
- Modern birthstone: Sapphire
- Traditional birthstone: Sapphire
- Alternates: Lapis Lazuli
- Color: royal blue (also pink, yellow, white and padparadscha)
- Traditionally associated with wisdom, loyalty and nobility
About Sapphire
Sapphire is a variety of corundum in any color except red. Blue sapphires are most prized, especially the legendary Kashmir stones.
| Type | Precious Stones |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | Al2O3 |
| Mohs hardness | 9 |
| Crystal system | trigonal |
| Luster | adamantine |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
- Kashmir sapphires are among the most valuable gems in the world
- The famous Star of India is a 563-carat star sapphire
- Sapphires can display asterism (star effect)
How to tell real Sapphire at a glance
- Color: Blue, Pink, Yellow, Orange, Green, White. Look at a clean, dry surface in daylight. Color zoning, banding or spots are as diagnostic as the hue.
- Luster: Adamantine. Fresh surfaces shine like glass; a dull surface usually means weathering, so chip or wet a corner.
- Transparency: Transparent. Hold a thin edge up to a bright light and note whether light passes through.
- Mohs hardness: 9. It scratches glass, steel and even quartz; only harder gems will mark it.
Other stones on this page
Frequently asked questions
What is the birthstone for September?
The modern September birthstone is Sapphire. Lapis Lazuli is also used.
What color is the September birthstone?
Sapphire is royal blue (also pink, yellow, white and padparadscha).
Are all sapphires blue?
No. Sapphire is corundum of any color except red, which is called ruby. Fancy sapphires in pink, yellow, green and white are also September birthstones.
How do I tell sapphire from blue glass or tanzanite?
Sapphire scratches nearly everything and stays one color as you turn it. Tanzanite shows blue and violet from different angles and is much softer; glass has bubbles and warms quickly in your hand.
