September birthstone
SapphireRoyal blue · Wisdom, loyalty and nobility.
- Modern birthstone
- Sapphire
- Also recognized
- Lapis Lazuli
- Color
- Royal blue
- Hardness
- 9 Mohs
- Zodiac signs
- Virgo, Libra
The September birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphire is the royal-blue birthstone of September, the blue variety of corundum and a symbol of wisdom and faithfulness. It has adorned crowns and clergy for centuries and, though blue is classic, sapphire also occurs in pink, yellow and green.
As a color, Sapphire sits in the royal blue range, which is part of why it feels so tied to the season. If you were born in September, this is the gem most jewelers and birthday charts will point you to, and the one that appears on a modern birthstone card.
What the September birthstone means
In the older lore, Sapphire was linked to wisdom, loyalty and nobility. That symbolism is a tradition rather than a fact, but it is the reason the stone has stayed meaningful as a birthday gift for so long. Different cultures added their own associations, yet the core meaning has held remarkably steady.
Alternative September birthstones
September is not limited to a single stone. Alongside Sapphire, the month is also linked to Lapis Lazuli. Any of these is a valid September birthstone, so you can pick the color and meaning that suits you best.
| Stone | Color | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Sapphire | Royal blue | modern |
| Lapis Lazuli | Deep blue with gold flecks | alternative |
September birth flower and zodiac signs
A birthstone is only part of the picture. The September birth flower is the Aster, and anyone born this month falls under Virgo or Libra. For everything about the month in one place, see the September overview.
Frequently asked questions
What is the September birthstone?
The September birthstone is Sapphire, a royal blue gem. It also has Lapis Lazuli as recognized alternatives.
What color is the September birthstone?
Sapphire is royal blue.
What does the September birthstone mean?
Sapphire traditionally stands for wisdom, loyalty and nobility.
What zodiac signs fall in September?
Virgo and Libra both fall within September.
Is there an alternative to the September birthstone?
Yes. Besides Sapphire, September also recognizes Lapis Lazuli. Either is a valid choice.
How hard is the September birthstone?
Sapphire measures 9 Mohs on the Mohs scale. That matters for everyday jewelry: a softer stone scratches more easily and is better suited to a pendant than to a ring worn daily.
Birthstones for other months
Related guides
Last reviewed . Method: how we work this out.