Me wearing my beloved sapphire earrings

WONDERS OF GOD’S HANDIWORK

I can’t believe September is here! It is one of my most favorite months. It always marks the changing of the seasons — summer coming to an end and the start of fall. I love the cooler days and the turning of the leaves to golden colors. It is a time for change and new beginnings.

September is also known for the beautiful birthstone, the sapphire. Sapphires are my favorite gemstone. They are a rich blue gem, like the one in Princess Diana’s famous engagement ring. Every day, I wear a sapphire ring on my finger and earrings to match. I’m most attracted to the classic color; I love the deep hue of navy blue. I’ve learned some interesting facts about this stunning gemstone and the history behind birthstones.

Each month of the year has a particular gemstone associated with it and they are called birthstones. The history of these birthstones can be traced back to the Bible. In the Old Testament book of Exodus, chapter 28, Moses gave directions for making a special garment for Aaron, the High Priest of the Hebrews. The breastplate was to contain twelve different gemstones to represent the twelve months of the year and the twelve tribes of Israel. The four most popular gems mentioned in the Bible are diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds. The modern tradition of wearing a birthstone did not begin until the 16th century and originated in Germany and Poland. This was the beginning of the birthstone trend we see in jewelry today.

As I started to do some more digging I discovered some more fun facts about my favorite jewel:

Interesting Facts About the Sapphire

  • The word sapphire comes from the Greek word “sapphirus” which means blue.

  • Sapphires have a rich history. They have been a treasured gemstone for centuries and have been extremely popular since the Middle Ages.

  • Sapphires are second only to diamonds in durability. Diamonds are the most durable naturally occurring element on earth and rank as a 10 out of 10 on the scale of mineral hardness. Sapphires are also very durable and rank as a 9 out of 10 in hardness. For this reason, sapphires are one of the few gemstones that make a great alternative for an engagement ring.

  • Sapphires are mentioned several times in the Bible and represent faith, truth, the sky and heaven.

  • Sapphires are often associated with royalty, particularly the deep blue variety and have been associated with and beloved by royalty for centuries. A fun fact I learned is that Princess Diana’s 12-carat sapphire engagement ring (which is now worn by Princess Kate) is the most famous royal sapphire of our time.

  • Sapphires can be found and are mined in Africa, China, India, and in the United States (surprisingly enough, in Montana.)

As I’ve pondered the beauty of sapphires and other intricate gemstones that come from deep inside the earth, I am astounded by all the brilliant hues. It is a true wonder of God’s creation at work in the display of the divine rainbow of jewel colors. The sapphire is truly a hidden wonder of God’s handiwork.

The month of September is an extra special one for me as September 6th is my daughter Karina’s birthday, so sapphires take on a deeper meaning. I glance at my ring daily and am reminded of her. She would be turning 32 years old this year. As I celebrate Karina, I celebrate the faithfulness of God in her life and now in The Anchor Gathering!

My sapphire ring and matching earrings

Karina’s sapphire ring, now worn by her sister, Annika

As we transition into Fall, I’m excited for our new beginnings and the start of our Anchor at Home season premiering on October 6th at 7pm on our YouTube channel. We are looking forward to spreading the Good News of Jesus and the grace and peace He brings!

“Grace and peace be yours in abundance and through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.” –2 Peter 1:2

With hope and light,