The sapphire, particularly the created blue variety, holds a significant place in jewelry history and continues to be a beloved gemstone. Recognized as the September birthstone, it is frequently featured in vintage pieces, notably Art Deco brooches. This article will explore the historical context of birthstones, the sapphire’s appearance in vintage jewelry, and details regarding its use in a specific example: a circa 1930s Art Deco brooch.
The concept of associating gemstones with specific months, and thus with individuals born in those months, has ancient roots. According to the American Gem Society, the practice originates with the breastplate of Aaron, brother of Moses, which contained twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. This association evolved over time, leading to the development of both “Traditional” and “Modern” birthstone lists. The Traditional list emerged in Poland during the late 15th or early 16th centuries, while the Modern Birthstones list was published in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers. The Modern list was specifically curated to feature transparent gems easily shaped and cut for contemporary jewelry fashions. This list has been updated over the years, with additions like Citrine for November and Tanzanite for December, demonstrating the evolving nature of birthstone designations.
The sapphire, in its various shades of blue, is prominently featured on both lists, solidifying its status as a significant gemstone. Vintage jewelry, particularly from the Art Deco era, frequently showcases sapphires. The Art Deco period, spanning roughly from the 1920s to the 1930s, was characterized by bold geometric designs, luxurious materials, and a sense of optimism. Sapphires, with their rich color and durability, were well-suited to the aesthetic of this era.
A specific example of this is a vintage 10k white gold brooch from the Art Deco period, circa 1930s. This brooch features a created blue sapphire as its central element, set within an architectural filigree design. The use of created sapphires during this period was not uncommon, offering an accessible alternative to natural sapphires while still providing the desired aesthetic. The brooch is a testament to the craftsmanship of the time, with its intricate filigree work and secure levered clasp. The brooch measures 1 5/8 x 1/2 inches and weighs 2.5 grams. It has been professionally polished and cleaned, retaining an age-appropriate patina.
The materials used in the brooch reflect the common practices of the era. The setting is crafted from 10k white gold, indicated by the “10K” marking on the clasp. The central gemstone is a created blue sapphire, approximately 0.50 carats in size. The term "created" indicates that the sapphire was grown in a laboratory, rather than mined naturally. This practice allowed jewelers to offer beautiful gemstones at a more affordable price point.
The brooch’s condition is described as good for its age, with the stone securely set and the metal professionally cleaned. The presence of age-appropriate patina suggests that the piece has been well-preserved while retaining its vintage character. The brooch is presented with a complimentary gift box, enhancing its appeal as a collectible or gift item.
The authenticity of vintage pieces like this brooch is often verified by qualified gemologists. In this case, each item in the shop has been hand-selected and inspected by a GIA Graduate Gemologist, ensuring its quality and provenance. This level of scrutiny provides buyers with confidence in their purchase.
The retail environment for birthstone jewelry is diverse, ranging from modern designs crafted in 14 karat gold to unique estate, antique, and vintage pieces. WeilJewelry, for example, offers a curated collection of birthstone jewelry, emphasizing high quality and careful selection. The availability of both modern and vintage options allows customers to choose pieces that suit their individual style and preferences.
The return policy for vintage pieces, as offered by some retailers, typically allows for returns within a specified timeframe, such as 7 days from the delivery date. This provides buyers with an opportunity to inspect the item in person and ensure its satisfaction.
While the provided sources do not detail the geological formation or specific gemological properties of sapphires, they highlight the enduring appeal of this gemstone in jewelry design. The sapphire’s association with September as a birthstone, combined with its aesthetic qualities, has made it a popular choice for both traditional and modern jewelry. The vintage brooch described serves as a tangible example of the sapphire’s historical significance and its continued relevance in the world of gemstones.
The sources provided, while informative, are limited in scope. They primarily focus on the historical context of birthstones and a specific example of a vintage sapphire brooch. A more comprehensive article would benefit from information regarding the sapphire’s chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, mining locations, and the various treatments used to enhance its color and clarity. However, adhering to the restriction of using only the provided sources, this article provides a detailed overview of the sapphire’s role in birthstone lore and its presence in vintage jewelry.