September Birthstone: Sapphire or Lapis Lazuli

Choose a traditional birthstone or a modern alternative.

The September birthstone is Sapphire, a gem celebrated for its deep blue hues, timeless symbolism, and royal associations. While most famous in blue, sapphires occur in nearly every colour except red (which is classified as ruby).

Sapphire

Sapphire, the traditional September birthstone, embodies wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Its famed blue brilliance has made it a favourite of royalty and spiritual leaders for centuries, while its durability and colour variety ensure it remains a versatile choice for modern jewellery.

Colours: Classic Blue: The most iconic sapphire shade, symbolizing wisdom and loyalty.

Other Colours: Sapphires can also be pink, yellow, green, purple, or even colourless.

Symbolism:

Truth & Sincerity: Traditionally sapphire is linked to honesty and faithfulness.
Royalty & Nobility: Worn by kings, queens, and clergy for centuries as a mark of prestige.
Spiritual Protection: Ancient Greeks and Romans believed sapphires protected wearers from harm and envy.

Energy & Beliefs: Associated with wisdom, integrity, and inner strength. Believed to calm the mind, promote clarity, and attract blessings. In metaphysical traditions, sapphires are thought to align with the throat chakra, aiding communication and self-expression.

Accessibility:

Natural Sapphires: High-quality stones, especially Kashmir and Burmese sapphires, are rare and extremely valuable.
Commercial Sources: Today, sapphires are mined in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Thailand, and Australia.

Affordability: Lab-created sapphires offer a more accessible option with the same brilliance and durability.

Versatility: Popular in engagement rings, pendants, and royal regalia. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphires are second only to diamonds, making them ideal for everyday wear. Their range of colours allows them to suit both classic and modern designs.

Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is the stone of wisdom and truth, with a rich royal blue colour that has captivated civilizations for millennia. Unlike diamonds or sapphires, it’s opaque and earthy, but its historical prestige and spiritual associations make it just as compelling.

Colours: Deep royal blue, often flecked with golden pyrite (giving a starry-night effect). Sometimes mixed with white calcite veins, adding contrast. Unlike diamonds or quartz, lapis is opaque rather than transparent.

Symbolism: Historically associated with wisdom, truth, and royalty. Ancient Egyptians used it in amulets, scarabs, and even Cleopatra’s eye shadow. Symbolises inner vision, enlightenment, and connection to the divine.

Energy & Beliefs: Believed to stimulate intellectual ability and enhance memory. Associated with the throat chakra, encouraging self-expression and honesty. Thought to bring harmony in relationships and strengthen bonds of friendship.

Accessibility: Found mainly in Afghanistan (the most famous source), Chile, and Russia. More affordable than precious gems like sapphire or diamond, though high-quality stones with rich blue colour and minimal calcite are prized. Widely available in jewellery, carvings, and decorative objects.

Versatility: Popular in beads, cabochons, and inlay work rather than faceted gems. Works beautifully in bohemian, spiritual, and artistic jewellery styles. Its bold colour makes it a statement stone, often paired with gold for contrast.

Not in sync with your traditional birthstone?

Then try exploring alternative birthstones or stones associated with astrological signs, angels, or even the day or hour of your birth.