Cornish Gold & Treasurepark, Tolgus Mill, Nr Portreath

Sapphire is Birthstone for September. - 28/08/2010
The name Sapphire comes from the latin word Sapphirus, meaning blue. Sapphire has been treasured for thousands of years. The ancient Persians believed that the earth rested on a giant Sapphire and its reflection coloured the sky. Sapphire has long symbolised truth, sincerity and faithfulness The British Crown Jewels are full of large blue sapphires and have been the chosen gemstone of the Royals and High Priests throughout history. Sapphire "sister" to ruby is know in the mineral world as corundum. Sapphires come in virtually every colour except red (red sapphires are rubies). The most famous and prized being of a true Royal blue colour. Sapphire is the next hardest stone to a diamond so this makes it an excellent gemstone to be worn as a ring or a bracelet. (Courtesy of Symon & Vivienne, the Goldsmiths based at Treasure Park.)