September marks the transition from hot summer days to the refreshing coolness of fall.

Individuals born in September fall under one of two zodiac signs: Virgo (from September 1 to September 22) or Libra (from September 23 to September 30). This month is also symbolized by the aster and morning glory flowers.

So, what about September’s birthstone? Each month features at least one gem. Here’s all the essential information about September’s exquisite choice.

September birthstone

The sapphire is the designated birthstone for September.

This beautiful stone is part of the corundum family. Corundum is typically colorless, as noted by the International Gem Society. The specific colors result from various elements like iron, titanium, or chromium influencing its structure. Corundum is also the source of another birthstone: the ruby for July.

Sapphires can be found in many colors, including orange, yellow, green, pink, and purple; however, they are most famous for their blue hues.

The term sapphire is derived from the Greek word “sappheiros“, according to the Geological Institute of America. In Greek mythology, this precious stone was linked to the gods Zeus and Apollo, as reported by the International Gem Society.

Historically, key sources of sapphires included Kashmir, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka, as mentioned by the Geological Institute of America. Sapphires were first discovered in Kashmir around 1881. Additional places that yield sapphires include Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, Montana in the U.S., and several regions throughout Asia and Africa, as indicated by the Institute.

Sapphires have long been associated with nobility. They were commonly set in jewelry and used to embellish clerical garments.

In ancient Greece, oracles adorned themselves with sapphires, as they were thought to enhance prophetic abilities, according to reports from the International Gem Society. In both ancient Rome and Greece, elite individuals wore these stones to protect against malice and jealousy. Additionally, sapphires were believed to embody fidelity, honesty, and truth.

One of the most famous sapphires today is the one in Princess Diana’s engagement ring, which is now with Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. Besides being September’s birthstone, sapphires also commemorate the fifth and forty-fifth wedding anniversaries.