The word sapphire has several origin, among them the sapphire comes from the Sanskrit sanipriya which means ‘dear to the planet Saturn’. The actual meaning of the Greek world sapir is ‘blue’.
The earliest records of mining sapphires was about 3,500 years ago in Burma and over 2,500 years ago in Sri Lanka.
The ancient Greek worn sapphire to stimulate the third eye for the purpose expanding psychic awareness. Its indicate that the Greek were aware of the sapphire’s ability to tap the subconscious mind.
Over the years, sapphires have served a variety of purpose, many of them mystical. Like jade the sapphire was beloved to cure illness, particularly of the eye.
Around 1800 it was recognized that sapphire and ruby are gem varieties of corundum.
Sapphire was used by Etruscans, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. It was used frequently in medieval Europe by royalty in brooches and rings. This gemstone has been extremely popular since the 18th century.
Sapphire gemstone in history
