Stone's names: Sapphire was originally the name of lapis lazuli. The name of sapphire was Hyacinthus, because they were supposed to look like the flower. Now Hyacinthus is another name of zircon (which looks nothing like saphhire!)

Description: Sapphire is the non-red variety of corundum, the second hardest natural mineral known to mankind. The red variety of corundum is Ruby. Sapphires are well known among the general public as being blue, but it can be nearly any color, even colorless.

White (or colorless but massive) sapphire would more properly be called corundum. The blue color is by far the most popular color for sapphire but orange-pink, golden, white, and even black have generated much interest in the gem trade. Oriented rutile crystal inclusions cause a six-pointed-star light effect (called asterism to form the popular Star Sapphire.

The name's origin: Along with Rubies, Sapphires have been valued as jewels throughout history, adorning Kings and Queens and the affluent through time. Blue Sapphire remains a favorite, and was popularized most recently by Princess Diana, as her choice for an engagement ring center stone.

Birthstone: Sapphire is the birthstone for September

Varieties: Sapphire is the gem variety of the mineral corundum. It is an extremely hard and durable gemstone, second only to Diamonds on the Moh's hardness scale. Sapphires are available in virtually all colors but red; Red Sapphires are known as Rubies.

Blue Sapphires are the most valuable, followed by Pink and Padparadscha Sapphires. Padparadscha Sapphires have orange pink or pink orange coloration and rival Blue Sapphires in value.

Care and treatment: Sapphire jewellery can be cleaned using hot soapy water, or detergent, rinse thoroughly afterwards as detergents can cause dermatitis and allergic reactions. Enzyme cleaners should be avoided for the same reasons. Brushing with an old tooth brush to remove dirt and grease will also help. Cleaning agents containing chlorine may have a detrimental effect on low carat gold alloys, so are best avoided.

Deposits: Many locations, but the best known are in southeast Asia, Australia, and southern Africa. In the U.S., Montana and North Carolina are well known sources.