For millennia, the sapphire has captivated humanity with its rich hues and enduring beauty. As the recognized birthstone for September, this gemstone embodies sincerity, truth, and faithfulness, qualities that have resonated across cultures and throughout history. While most readily associated with a deep, velvety blue, the world of sapphire extends far beyond this classic shade, encompassing a rainbow of colors—with the notable exception of red, which is reserved for its close relative, the ruby. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of the September birthstone, exploring the multifaceted nature of this remarkable gem.
History and Lore
The story of the sapphire is interwoven with the narratives of ancient civilizations. As far back as ancient Greece and Rome, blue sapphires were prized possessions, believed to offer protection from harm and ward off envy. The elite of these societies adorned themselves with sapphires, not merely for their aesthetic appeal, but for the perceived safeguarding powers they possessed. This belief in protective qualities continued into the Middle Ages, where clergy members wore sapphires as a symbol of heavenly authority and truth.
Ancient Persian lore held an even more grandiose view of the gemstone, believing that the earth itself rested upon a colossal sapphire, its reflected light responsible for the blue color of the sky. This myth underscores the profound reverence held for the sapphire and its association with the cosmos.
Throughout the Victorian era, blue sapphires gained prominence as a traditional “something blue” for brides, solidifying its connection to fidelity and lasting love. Even more recently, a stunning 18-carat oval blue sapphire became globally recognized as the centerpiece of a royal engagement ring, further cementing the gem’s association with romance and nobility. The color itself, a vivid and regal shade, became known as “royal blue” in tribute to the sapphire’s long-standing connection to royalty.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires belong to the corundum family (Al₂O₃), a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. The presence of trace elements within the corundum structure dictates the gemstone’s color. In the case of blue sapphires, titanium is the key element, with the intensity of the blue hue directly correlating to the amount of titanium present. Sapphires form in metamorphic and igneous rocks, requiring specific geological conditions involving high pressure and temperature.
Historically, and continuing today, significant sapphire deposits are found in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Australia. Notably, Montana in the United States is also a source of sapphires, though often lighter in color. More recently, Kenya has emerged as a source for unique “goldensheen” sapphires, characterized by bronzy tones and glittering inclusions. Thailand, specifically Chanthaburi, is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest pink sapphires.
The diversity of sapphire colors—including pink, yellow, green, violet, black, and even color-change varieties—arises from the inclusion of different trace elements. Sapphires exhibiting multiple colors are known as “parti-colored” stones, adding to the gem’s captivating variety.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional durability, ranking a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness—second only to diamond. This hardness makes them exceptionally well-suited for everyday wear, resisting scratches and abrasions. The gem’s chemical composition is consistently aluminum oxide, but the varying trace elements create a spectrum of colors.
While “sapphire” generally refers to the blue variety of corundum, any non-red corundum is considered sapphire. Red corundum is specifically classified as ruby. Sapphires are evaluated based on the “four Cs”: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Color is arguably the most important factor, with deep, saturated hues commanding the highest prices. Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions, though some inclusions can be tolerated, and even contribute to a sapphire’s unique character. Cut refers to the proportions, symmetry, and polish of the gemstone, maximizing its brilliance and fire. Carat weight measures the gemstone’s size, with larger sapphires generally being rarer and more valuable.
A high-quality 1-carat blue sapphire can range in price from $3000 to $5000, though prices fluctuate based on market conditions and the specific characteristics of the stone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphires have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Beyond their association with royalty, sincerity, and faithfulness, sapphires are considered protective gemstones, believed to shield the wearer from both physical harm and negative intentions. This protective quality extends to warding off envy and ill-will, making sapphires particularly appealing to those in the public eye.
In ancient times, sapphires were also thought to possess medicinal properties. Medieval Europeans believed the gemstone could cure plague boils and alleviate eye diseases, while also serving as an antidote to poison.
Modern metaphysical beliefs attribute various energies to sapphires. Blue sapphires are said to promote wisdom, focus, and clarity of thought, making them ideal for students and entrepreneurs. The blue rays are also believed to align goals with disciplined action, aiding in manifestation. Sapphires are also associated with spiritual enlightenment and are often worn by those seeking a deeper connection to their inner selves. Some sapphires exhibit a natural phenomenon called asterism, displaying a six-rayed star when properly cut and illuminated, further enhancing their mystical appeal.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphires’ exceptional hardness makes them remarkably durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, like all gemstones, they require proper care to maintain their brilliance. Sapphires can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone’s surface.
While sapphires are resistant to scratching, they can still be chipped or fractured with a significant impact. It is advisable to remove sapphire jewelry before engaging in strenuous activities or when handling abrasive materials. Regular cleaning and careful handling will ensure that a sapphire continues to sparkle and shine for generations.
Conclusion
The sapphire, September’s birthstone, is a gem of enduring beauty, rich history, and profound symbolism. From its ancient origins as a protective talisman to its modern-day status as a symbol of love and loyalty, the sapphire has captivated humanity for millennia. Its remarkable durability, coupled with its stunning array of colors, makes it a cherished gemstone for jewelry enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether a classic blue sapphire or a vibrant fancy-colored variety, this gemstone continues to inspire awe and admiration, solidifying its place as one of the world’s most beloved and treasured gems.