The birthstone for September is the sapphire, a beautiful gemstone. It belongs to the corundum family of gemstones, together with rubies. When we describe a gem as being a sapphire, we understand it to be a blue sapphire. Sapphires, though, come in many colours including yellow, pink, colourless (or white), orange, green and black. When referring to sapphires that are not blue, the correct description is a pink sapphire or a yellow sapphire.

Victorian gold snake ring with sapphire crests and diamond eyes

Let’s look at some sapphire set jewellery. The photo at the top of the post is of an antique 15ct gold necklace with with eleven sapphire and pearl flower links. Quite a delicate piece .The Victorian gold ring above is a double headed snake ring, with sapphire crests and tiny diamond eyes.

Antique bracelet with blue and white sapphires

The antique bracelet above is set with sapphires as well as some colourless sapphires. Colourless sapphires were often used as a diamond substitute. The Victorian gypsy set ring below has a central sapphire and two diamonds.

Late Victorian gypsy set ring with sapphire and diamonds

The next two photos are of a vintage gold bangle with an interesting setting of gems. The front of the bangle has 10 mixed cut diamonds with a lovely central sapphire.

Vintage sapphire and diamond gold bangle

The back of the bangle is set with three sapphires. It is a striking piece of jewellery.

Back of sapphire and diamond bangle