Bling of the Month: Blue Sapphires

Ahh the Avant garde! These are some of my favorite sapphire creations. Gorgeous hoops in black onyx and blue sapphires, handmade in 18kt white gold.

The word sapphire comes from the Greek word "sappheiros" which translates to blue stone.  A variety of the  gem corundum, the sapphire is like a ruby, but blue.  They are usually found together, but one of either is usually more abundant. Because of their hardness, this gem is very sought-after in jewelry design and gemology.

Although blue is their most well known color, sapphires are made up of any color of corundum except for red.  Sapphires may also be colorless, but they are additionally found in shades of gray and black.  Geographically, these gemstones are found in Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Madagascar.  In North America, they are found near the Missouri River or in the beautiful state of Montana.

Young and hip, these hoops add style to any outfit, day or night.  Handmade in sapphires and turquoise, and 18kt gold,  I love wearing these through the summer.

Blue sapphires are evaluated based on the purity of their primary hue, and most gemologist consider "velvety blue" the perfect hue. Purple, violet and green are the most common secondary hues found in sapphires. Violet and blue can add to the beauty of the stone, but if you find a sapphire with shades of green, stay away.  In gemology, his is considered a negative, which affects the value of the jewel.

A longtime talisman used by royalty, there are other magical powers attributed to sapphires. In olden times it was believed that if you wore a sapphire piece to the signing of a treaty, it would ensure a true reconciliation and long-term peace between the two nations. It was also said that if royalty wore it in their crowns and tiaras, it would protect them from court jealousy and harm.

Today sapphires are said to render black magic harmless and give the wearer insight into he future. They are also said to posses healing qualities, holding power to cure decease and serious ailments of the body. Lastly they intensify purity of thought and devotion, while healing deceases of the brain and stomach.

Often associated with feelings of sympathy, harmony, loyalty and friendship, sapphires give expression to people's love and longing.  That is why they are oftentimes used instead of a diamond in engagement rings, the most famous one being the one given to Lady Diana Spencer, and then later used for the Duchess of Cambridge's engagement to Prince William.



Stronger than granite or marble, this gemstone's durability has made in very popular throughout history. Thanks to their hardness (9 on the Mohs scale), sapphires are easier to care than most gems.  They only require casual care, but as with everything jewelry, always beware of perfumes and chemicals.

In ancient times, Persians believe that the world was embedded on a huge blue sapphire sky.  Such beauty and purity is what makes these gems so special.  I love designing with sapphires in mind, with the blue Miami sky as my divine inspiration.



Love,
Dani K