The sapphire

stone of wonder

Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum. The name applies to all clear and coloured varieties with the exception of rubies. Today the term is more often reserved for the blue kind, which ranges from sky blue to dark blue-black and can vary according to the light.

The sky blue variety is commonly associated with calmness, purity and peace. We can but guess to what extent superstition influences the choice of gem. In the Middle Ages sapphires are thought to lower fevers, heal wounds and make the wearer immune to poisons.