The September birthstone is sapphire – a gem that’s been cherished for thousands of years. Although the term sapphire usually refers to the blue variety of corundum (ruby is the red variety), this birthstone comes in a rainbow of other colours.
Many consider the sapphire to be a gem with healing properties, and it’s said to encourage truth, loyalty, wisdom and clear thinking, especially when worn by those born in September or under the star sign of Virgo.
It's also believed to cure physical ailments, especially eye infections, headaches, earache and thyroid problems.
Sapphires are mined on the Asian, Australian, African and South American continents, but generally the ones from Thailand and Ceylon are regarded as the finest because of their vivid hues and exceptional clarity.