The Royal Blue: The Story of the Sapphire - More Than Just a Pretty (Really, Really Pretty) Face

Let’s be honest, when you think of a sapphire, your mind probably goes straight to a certain royal engagement ring that’s been making headlines for decades. (We see you, Princess Di and now Kate.) But this stunning blue gem has a history that’s way older and more fascinating than any modern fairytale. It’s been the rockstar of the gem world for centuries, symbolizing everything from wisdom and royalty to divine favor. And the best part? You don’t need a crown to rock one. At Robinson’s Jewelers, we believe every woman deserves to feel like royalty, and a sapphire might just be your ticket to the throne. So, grab a cup of tea (pinkies up, if you must), and let’s dive into the dazzling story of this iconic stone.

What makes a sapphire so special, you ask? Well, besides its show-stopping color, it’s a member of the corundum family. In non-geek speak, that means it’s incredibly hard—second only to a diamond on the Mohs scale of hardness. This isn’t some delicate flower of a gem; a sapphire is tough enough for everyday wear, which is perfect for those of us who are a little… let’s call it ‘active’. It means your beautiful sapphire ring can handle life’s little bumps, from juggling groceries to chasing after kids (or just chasing down the remote).

Not Just a One-Hue Wonder

Here’s a fun fact that might blow your mind: sapphires come in almost every color of the rainbow except red. (A red corundum is called a ruby—its equally fabulous cousin). These colorful versions are called “fancy sapphires.” So you can find stunning pink, yellow, orange, green, and even purple sapphires! But let’s be real, the classic cornflower blue is the one that truly owns our hearts. The most prized color is a velvety, medium-deep blue, often referred to as ‘Kashmir’ or ‘cornflower’ blue. It’s the color of a perfect summer sky, and honestly, who wouldn’t want to wear that on their finger?

A Gem Fit for Kings, Queens, and... You

Ancient Persians believed the sky was painted blue because it was reflected from a giant sapphire that the earth rested upon. How’s that for a grand origin story? Throughout history, clergy wore blue sapphires to symbolize heaven, and monarchs wore them to attract wealth, protect against envy, and promote wisdom. They thought the gem had the power to protect against harm and even poison. We can’t guarantee it’ll neutralize your mother-in-law’s backhanded compliments, but it certainly can’t hurt! This rich history is why designers like David Webb and Oscar Heyman have created such iconic pieces featuring this regal stone.

Why a Sapphire Might Be Your Perfect Stone

Thinking about an engagement ring? A sapphire is a brilliant and unique choice. It offers a pop of color that stands out from the crowd while still being exceptionally durable for a lifetime of wear. It’s a symbol of loyalty, honesty, and trust—pretty good foundations for a marriage, if you ask us. And for our September babies, it’s your glorious birthstone! But you certainly don’t need a September birthday or a proposal as an excuse. A pair of sapphire studs or a delicate sapphire pendant is a timeless addition to any jewelry collection. Imagine pairing a stunning blue sapphire with a piece from our tennis necklace collection—now that’s a statement.

Finding Your Perfect Sapphire at Robinson’s

At Robinson’s Jewelers, we have an incredible selection of sapphire jewelry to suit every style. Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of a solitaire sapphire ring or the modern artistry of a piece from Sofer Jewelry, we can help you find ‘the one.’ We carry breathtaking designs from world-renowned houses like Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels, as well as stunning bridal options from designers like Charles Krypell. Looking for something with a bit of an edge? Check out our paperclip jewelry collection for a contemporary twist.

So, the next time you see that deep, royal blue, remember it’s more than just a color. It’s a piece of history, a symbol of strength, and a touch of magic. Come visit us at Robinson’s Jewelers and let us help you find a sapphire that tells your story. After all, every queen needs her jewels.