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Sadly, all good things must come to an end—even summer! But it’s not all bad news. In fact, as our fall favorites start rolling in (looking at you, PSLs and snuggly sweaters), it’s time to also celebrate another wonderful thing: September babies! And what better gift for your favorite Virgo (or Libra!) than one of their stunning birthday gemstones?
When it comes to the September birthstone, there’s one primary stone and one alternative stone. Luckily for our fabulous fall babes, they’re both gorgeous and have fascinating histories.
So, if you’re in the market for a birthday gift (or treating yourself!), these birthstones for September are perfect choices. Let’s dive in and explore these two powerful stones and all of their rich and exciting symbolism that comes from their colors and histories.
Related: Here’s Exactly What Your Month’s Birthstone Says About Your Personality
What Is September’s Birthstone?
September’s primary birthstone is the sapphire. This gem is beloved by both experts and enthusiasts for its unique properties and stunning appearance.
Matt Harris, a certified pearl specialist at Matt Harris Designs, describes sapphires as “one of the most recognized gems, right up there with diamonds, emeralds and rubies.” He notes that while most people think of a “shiny royal blue gem,” sapphires actually come in a variety of colors.
Sacha Jarmon, gemologist and co-founder of Love Saro, adds that sapphires are “stones of wisdom.” She explains, “Sapphires honor the higher mind, bringing intuition, clarity and self-mastery.”
September Birthstone Color
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While sapphires are most commonly associated with a deep blue color, they actually come in a wide range of hues.
“Sapphires can come in a vast array of colors, including yellow, orange, pink, green and purple,” Harris explains. “Some stones can even be grey or brown.”
Is the September Birthstone Rare?
According to Jarmon, “Yes, sapphires are considered a precious stone for their rarity.”
She notes that while sapphires are rarer than diamonds, they’re often more affordable. However, certain types of sapphires, like Padparadscha and royal blue, are very rare and can be quite expensive.
“As with many gemstones, there are rare colors from rare sources,” Harris adds. “The finest (and thus most expensive) blue sapphires have a vivid, deep color and exceptional clarity.”
Related: People Born in March Actually Have 2 Birthstones—Find Out What They Are and the Meaning Behind Each Stone
Meaning and History of Sapphire
Sapphires have a rich history and symbolism.
“For centuries, sapphires have been the gems of royalty,” Harris explains. “They have symbolized nobility, sincerity, romance, wisdom and divine favor.”
Jarmon elaborates: “Worn throughout the ages for protection, good fortune and spiritual insight, sapphires are not only symbols of power and strength but also of kindness and wise judgment.”
Interestingly, the word “sapphire” comes from the Greek “sappheiros,” which means “blue,” reflecting its most common color.
Related: April Birthstones: Learn the Meaning, Color, History
Where Is Sapphire Found?
Sapphires are found in various locations around the world. Harris lists some famous sources: “Sri Lanka, Myanmar (Burma) and Madagascar. There are also deposits in Thailand, Australia, Tanzania, Cambodia, China and even Montana.”
Related: May Birthstones: Learn All About Their Symbolism, Color and History
Alternative September Birthstone: Moonstone
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September’s alternative birthstone is the moonstone.
Harris describes it poetically: “Think of looking up to the sky at night while a full moon is veiled by a thin layer of clouds. It’s easy to understand why it’s called ‘moonstone’… Its silky white appearance, its shimmery play of light and its magical vibe not only remind us of the moon’s glow but of its wonderment and its mystical qualities.”
Jarmon refers to moonstone as the “stone of new beginnings” or the “stone of divine femininity.”
She explains, “Moonstone is said to give strength and inspiration to the wearer, especially when embarking on a new chapter in life.”
Related: June Actually Has 3 Birthstones—Here’s What They Are and What They Symbolize
Where Is Moonstone Found?
According to Harris, “Like sapphires, high-quality moonstones often come from Sri Lanka. Also, like sapphires, Madagascar and Myanmar offer deposits as well as China, Australia, Mexico and Poland.”
Jarmon adds that Armenia, Brazil and the United States also have moonstones.
Related: People Born in July Have ‘One of the Rarest’ Birthstones—Here’s What It Is and the Meaning Behind the Stone
Is Moonstone Rare?
Harris notes, “While moonstones themselves aren’t rare, the larger, exceptional samples with intense play of light and strong, blue adularescence are more rare and can get costly.”
Related: People Born in August Have a Birthstone That ‘Promotes Harmony’—Here’s What It Is and the Meaning Behind the Stone
Meaning and History of Moonstone
Moonstone has been associated with lunar deities and is considered to hold the powers of the moon. Harris explains, “It’s associated with wisdom, intuition, clairvoyant ability and protection. Some ancient cultures believed the stone was actually captured, solidified moonrays!”
Jarmon highlights its connection to feminine energy: “For centuries, Moonstone has been used in many cultures to aid regulation of the hormonal body, whether related to infertility, PMS, PCOS [and] menopause.”
Related: September Has 2 Birth Flowers To Choose From—Here's Exactly What They Symbolize
Sources
- Matt Harris, a certified pearl specialist at Matt Harris Designs.
- Sacha Jarmon, gemologist and founder of LOVE SARO.
