Sapphire Can Be Any Hue but Red : September Gemstone Is Not True to Blue

Most people recognize a sapphire as a brilliant blue gemstone, but few know that the September birthstone can be any color except red, said the American Gem Trade Assn., based here.

“Natural sapphire is found in almost every color of the rainbow--orange, blue, pink, yellow, green, lavender and purple--as well as colorless,” said Ray Zajicek, president of the association, a nonprofit organization that represents suppliers of gemstones throughout the United States.

“The rarest sapphire is Padparadscha, which is a fiery orange-pink stone,” he said. “Its name means ‘lotus blossom’ in Sinhalese.”

Another rare and valuable sapphire is the star sapphire.

“Star sapphire gets its name from the six-rayed star formed by the tiny needles of its crystal structure,” said Roland Naftule, president of the International Colored Stone Assn., an organization of gemstone suppliers that represents 29 gem-producing countries.

Perhaps the best known sapphire is the royal blue gemstone that Britain’s Prince Charles gave to Princess Diana for their engagement. Prince Charles’ choice was most appropriate, because legend holds that the gemstone protects royalty, Naftule said.

“The sapphire is one of the oldest-known gemstones,” Naftule said. “In fact, ancient writers claimed the Ten Commandments were written on sapphire. Ancient Persians believed the blue sky was a reflection of a magnificent sapphire upon which the Earth rested.”

Other lore surrounding the sapphire claims that it acts as an antidote against poison, cleanses the soul and helps its owner interpret oracles and foresee the future. The rare orange Padparadscha is said to help cure restlessness and insomnia.

According to legend, the sapphire has the power to induce attachment and fidelity when given as a token of love.