The sapphire's most popular color is blue, however, it comes in almost any other color - except red, because in that case it'd be a ruby. Sapphires and rubies are both members of the corundum group, and next to the diamond, they're the hardest gemstone in the world. That makes them more durable in jewelry pieces like sapphire rings.

In medieval times, blue sapphires were connected to the heavens. Clergy wore them to symbolize heaven, and people thought that sapphires would attract heavenly blessings. In ancient Rome and Greece, people believed that the sapphire would prevent its owners from envy and harm.

The Kashmir region on the border of India and Pakistan has always been a famous source for excellent quality sapphires, but in more recent years, supply has almost completely diminished. Africa, Australia, many countries in Asia and even the United States are now the main sources for sapphires.

Quick Facts

• Prince Charles gave Princess Diana a sapphire wedding ring in 1981 In 2010, their son Prince William gave this sapphire ring to his now wife, Kate Middleton, for their engagement
• When they are cut as a cabochon, some sapphires show a six-pointed star, which comes from inclusions inside the stone that reflect the light
• Orange-pink sapphires are in a league of their own and are referred to as "Padparadscha," which means "lotus color" in Sinhalese