September’s birthstone, the sapphire, is renowned for its deep blue brilliance and rich historical significance. Valued for centuries, sapphires were once thought to protect wearers from envy and danger and were worn by ancient Roman and Greek royalty. During the Middle Ages, their celestial associations made them popular among religious figures. The enduring appeal of sapphires is exemplified by Princess Diana’s iconic 12-carat sapphire engagement ring, now worn by Kate Middleton.
Sapphires’ classic allure continues to captivate today’s designers. “The combination of blue sapphires and white gold is timeless,” notes Alyse Chirumbole, director of fine jewellery and watches at Threads Styling. Designers like Suzanne Kalan and Octavia Elizabeth offer chic, contemporary sapphire pieces that blend elegance with modernity. Kalan’s flexible bangles and Elizabeth’s sustainable, classic designs are standout choices.
Regional designers also highlight sapphires’ versatile charm. Layal Al Sultan of Elura admires their ability to shift hues from deep indigo to airy blue, while Nishith Shah of La Marquise Jewellery emphasizes their durability and elegance. Ghadeer Taher and Joumana Jallad of STONE Fine Jewelry appreciate sapphires’ ability to complement both classic and avant-garde styles. Toktam Shekarriz of TOKTAM values sapphires for their vibrant energy and diverse color range, suggesting that the ultimate sapphire combines rich color, clarity, and a cut that enhances its natural brilliance.