Sapphire is an aluminum oxide gemstone, which may contain trace amounts of other elements, such as iron, titanium, chromium, copper, or magnesium.

Physical Properties of Sapphire

While sapphire comes from the Greek word for ‘blue stone’ it can actually come in any color in the rainbow, depending on which elemental impurities it contains.

For example, a sapphire with chromium impurities may appear red. In this case, however, it is called a ruby. Rainbow sapphire jewelry which includes all the different sapphire colors is a popular trend right now.

List of Gemstone Meanings: For our full list of gemstone meanings.

History of Sapphire

Amusingly enough, the Greek word for ‘blue stone’ was probably used in ancient times to refer to lapis lazuli, not the gemstone we currently refer to as sapphire.

Sapphire is considered to be one of the four precious gemstones, along with ruby, emerald, and diamond.

In Christianity, sapphire is traditionally believed to be the stone which the tablets containing the Ten Commandments were inscribed on.

God’s throne was also supposed to be made of sapphire, the blue color reflecting the idea of the sky, or Heaven. Scholars now debate whether this too was supposed to be a reference to lapis lazuli, and not sapphire.

It was also one of the 12 stones included in the Breastplate of Aaron. In Persian myth, the earth was believed to rest on a sapphire. The reflection of the sapphire in the sky accounted for the blue color of the atmosphere.

Sapphire Meaning: Metaphysical Properties of Sapphire

Sapphire is the birthstone for the month of September, and usually symbolizes insight and spiritual devotion, as well as communication, though meanings can vary depending on the color of the sapphire.

Usually stone meanings are tied into the chakra system in the etheric body. The deep blue color usually associated with sapphire corresponds to the throat chakra, which is the chakra of self-expression.

If you have difficulties with public speaking, or with expressing your emotions in your relationships, sapphire might help you to find your voice.

Sapphire is also a spiritual stone which has the meaning of inspiration and intuition. Wearing sapphire may help you to tap into your own sources of inspiration and hear the voices of your muses.

If you have a lot of mental clutter and uncertainty, sapphire may clear the way so that you can hear the voice of truth.

This is yet another element of self expression, since part of being able to express yourself entails having something to say. Sapphire is a perfect stone for Pisces.

Disclaimer: Sapphire should not be used instead of regular medical treatment, but in addition to treatments. Always seek professional help when dealing with health related problems.