Sapphire is September's gemstone, and this Roman coin belt features a stunning one as its centerpiece. Sapphires were known to the Romans but rarely used in jewelry. By the late Roman period, they were the prerogative of the emperor, suggesting that this belt might have been an imperial gift. Based on its design, this belt was fashioned for a woman, and it would have been worn at special ceremonial occasions as a sign of political status and power. 23 gold coins make up the belt itself and depict five emperors who reigned during the mid to late fourth century. Can you spot any other precious stones on this belt? Image: Belt with Central Medallion, about 379–395, Roman. Getty Museum #GettyVilla #GettyVillaMuseum #AncientArt #ArtHistory #Birthstone #PreciousStones #Art #AncientWorld