If diamonds are forever, sapphires are for royalty. From ancient kings to modern-day duchesses, this deep-blue gemstone has held court for centuries. There’s something about a sapphire that feels regal—elegant without being flashy, rich without trying too hard. But what exactly gives this gem its royal status? Let’s break down why sapphires have always been a favorite in the crown jewel collection.
It All Started in Ancient Times
Before anyone coined the phrase “crown jewels,” sapphires were already being worn by royalty—and not just for looks. In ancient Greece and Rome, sapphires were believed to protect the wearer from envy and harm. Persians thought the earth rested on a giant sapphire, which gave the sky its blue color. In medieval times, clergy wore sapphires to symbolize heaven, and kings believed the gemstone would protect them in battle.
So from the beginning, sapphires weren’t just decorative. They were seen as protective, divine, and authoritative—a gemstone that symbolized power with purpose.
The British Royal Family and the Sapphire Obsession
Let’s be real: the most iconic sapphire moment in modern history is Princess Diana’s engagement ring. When Prince Charles proposed with that 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire surrounded by diamonds, he unknowingly reignited the global love affair with blue sapphires. The ring was passed on to Kate Middleton when Prince William proposed, turning it into a generational heirloom that still sparks global trends today.
What’s fascinating is that Diana actually picked the ring herself from a catalog, and it wasn’t custom-made. At the time, it was seen as controversial—not because it wasn’t stunning, but because it was “accessible.” Ironically, that made people love it even more.
The British royal family has long had a thing for sapphires, from Queen Elizabeth’s brooch collection to Princess Anne’s sapphire engagement ring. There’s consistency to it—sapphires reflect duty, elegance, and timeless style without screaming for attention.
Why Blue? The Psychology Behind the Color
Sapphires come in a wide range of colors, but blue is by far the most iconic—and the one associated with royalty. Blue has long been a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and calm strength. It’s a color that doesn’t dominate a room but commands it. Think navy uniforms, judge’s robes, and ceremonial flags.
A blue sapphire evokes the same feeling. It’s bold but not loud, regal but not arrogant. It gives off an “I’ve got this” energy that’s perfect for people in power. That’s why it's been a staple in crowns, rings, and royal regalia throughout history.
Durability Meets Beauty
There’s a practical reason sapphires are such a go-to for royal jewelry: they’re durable. On the Mohs scale of hardness, sapphires rate a 9—just behind diamonds at 10. That makes them perfect for pieces that are worn often and passed down over generations. They’re tough enough to survive daily wear, yet precious enough to remain valuable.
Compare that with emeralds, which are stunning but more fragile, and it’s clear why sapphire wins for long-term investment and legacy jewelry.
Rarity and Prestige Without Being Predictable
While diamonds might feel more common today, sapphires still retain a sense of mystique. Especially high-quality sapphires from Kashmir, Burma, or Sri Lanka (also known as Ceylon) are rare and incredibly valuable. Kashmir sapphires, in particular, are prized for their velvety blue hue and are considered the most desirable in the world.
The beauty of sapphires is also that they’re versatile. You can find them in hues ranging from cornflower blue to royal navy to deep midnight. Some even have flashes of violet or silver. So even within the same gemstone, there’s space for individuality—something every royal family appreciates when trying to balance tradition and personal expression.
Symbolism Fit for a Crown
Jewelry is rarely just about decoration—especially in royal circles. Every piece tells a story. Sapphires have always symbolized honesty, integrity, and good judgment. They were often worn during treaty signings, royal weddings, and coronations to reflect the seriousness of the moment.
Even today, when royals wear sapphire pieces, it sends a message of calm leadership and thoughtful authority. It’s like the jewelry equivalent of a navy blazer—understated but powerful.
Pop Culture Has Followed Suit
The royal effect is real. After Diana’s engagement, sapphire sales surged globally. When Kate Middleton started appearing with that same ring, younger generations fell in love with sapphires all over again. Celebrities like Penélope Cruz, Elizabeth Hurley, and Victoria Beckham have also rocked sapphire engagement rings, giving the gemstone a modern, stylish twist.
And it’s not just engagement rings. Sapphires have become popular choices for bracelets, earrings, and pendants—especially for people who want something unique, elegant, and steeped in meaning.
Modern Royalty, Modern Choices
While traditional blue sapphires continue to dominate, modern jewelry lovers are now exploring the full color spectrum: pink sapphires for romantic souls, yellow for optimism, teal for a contemporary twist. But the royal energy remains. Regardless of color, sapphires give off an aura of strength and depth—two things that never go out of style.
Whether you’re a duchess or just dressing like one, sapphires offer a timeless elegance that feels grounded, powerful, and quietly luxurious.
Final Thoughts
So why are sapphires the gemstone of royalty? Because they strike the perfect balance—between beauty and resilience, history and modernity, prestige and wearability. They’ve crowned kings, sealed marriages, and stood the test of time. And they’ll keep doing it. Not just because of what they look like, but because of what they represent. A sapphire isn’t just a gem. It’s a statement.