Van Cleef & Arpels celebrates the zodiac's most meticulous sign, Virgo
If you've felt the uncontrollable urge to organise and make lists in the last month, don't be surprised: We're in the final leg of Virgo season. Members of the sixth sign of the zodiac are known for their fastidiousness and their desire to find perfection in just about everything. But those traits aren't just good for building a career: You can always count on a Virgo to be an honest friend who's always willing to lend a hand.
The Virgo's birthstone is the regal blue sapphire, a longtime favourite of celebs and royalty alike (see: Princess Diana's famous engagement ring, given a new lease of life by Kate Middleton.)
The International Gem Society notes that blue sapphires have long been used to provide "clarity"; the Ancient Greeks often wore blue sapphires when consulting with oracles to better understand their pronouncements. Others have observed that the gem has been used throughout history to relieve mental tension — something that the perfectionist Virgo is likely sorely in need of.
In celebration of Virgo season, we've rounded up 3 of the best blue sapphire creations from French jeweller Van Cleef and Arpels. Read on for more.
Flammes de Neptune ring
Inspired by the final planet in our solar system, Neptune, this stunning ring lets its cushion-cut 40.52ct Madagascan sapphire do the talking. The diamonds that creep up the sides of the ring evoke the icy rings that surround the blue planet, a stylistic choice that endows the ring with a majestic volume and otherworldly light.
Midnight Zodiaque Lumineux Virginis watch
Show off your Virgo pride with this sleek tribute to the astral maiden. Wrought of a white gold case and a stunning blue glitter enamel dial, this numbered edition watch has all the makings of a future heirloom. This intricate creation even features a special backlight that illuminates the dial's translucent enamel beads.
Trésor astral necklace
Finally, Van Cleef & Arpels offers this stunning necklace from their latest high jewellery collection. Here, two octogonal-cut sapphires of 31.17 ct and 22.82 ct are jusxtaposed together, bound by a wreath of dazzling sapphires and diamonds. They represent Mizar and Alcor, two stars that have been used throughout history as a test of eyesight; Mizar and Alcor also appear in numerous myths and legends throughout history and across cultures.
