Sapphire, most notably recognized for its captivating blue hues, reigns as the primary birthstone for September. However, this gem extends far beyond a single color, encompassing a spectrum of shades and a rich history interwoven with royalty, spirituality, and enduring symbolism. This article delves into the geological origins, historical significance, gemological properties, and enduring allure of the September birthstone, exploring both the classic blue sapphire and its increasingly popular “fancy” colored counterparts.
History and Lore
The story of sapphire stretches back millennia, with its name originating from the Latin sapphirus and Greek sappheiros, both simply meaning “blue.” Throughout history, sapphire has been highly prized, consistently ranking among the most precious gemstones alongside diamonds, emeralds, and rubies. Ancient civilizations, including those of Greece and Rome, believed the blue sapphire offered protection from harm and envy. Within the elite circles of these societies, sapphires were not merely adornments but talismans believed to safeguard their wearers.
Medieval Europeans attributed healing properties to the September birthstone, believing it could cure plague boils and alleviate eye ailments, even serving as an antidote to poison. The clergy of the Middle Ages favored sapphires, associating the gem with Heaven and incorporating it into their vestments. Ancient Persian lore even posited that the earth rested upon a colossal sapphire, responsible for the sky’s azure hue. This long-held reverence for sapphire cemented its association with nobility, faith, and wisdom. Beyond its protective and healing qualities, sapphire has traditionally symbolized sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. It remains a popular choice for commemorating significant milestones, including the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries, with Star Sapphire reserved for the 65th.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al2O3). Pure corundum is colorless; the vibrant colors seen in sapphires – and rubies – arise from trace elements within the crystal structure. In the case of blue sapphires, the presence of iron and titanium imparts the characteristic hue. Red corundum, however, is classified separately as ruby.
Historically, the most sought-after sapphires originated from the remote, mountainous regions of Kashmir in northern India. Today, high-quality sapphires are sourced from several key locations, including Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, and Madagascar. Commercial-grade sapphires are also found in East Africa, Australia, and even Montana, USA. The increasing demand for sapphires has also led to the development of lab-created alternatives, offering an ethically and environmentally conscious option.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional durability, ranking an impressive 9 out of 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale – second only to diamonds. This hardness makes them exceptionally well-suited for everyday wear, resisting scratches and maintaining their brilliance. The gem’s chemical formula is Al2O3, and it crystallizes in the trigonal system.
While blue is the most iconic sapphire color, these gems occur in a remarkable range of hues, often referred to as “fancy colored” sapphires. These include pink, yellow, green, orange, and purple, each deriving its color from different trace elements. Sapphires are evaluated based on hue, tone, and saturation, with vivid, deeply saturated colors generally commanding higher values. A high-quality 1-carat blue sapphire can range in price from $3000 to $5000, though prices fluctuate based on market conditions and specific gem characteristics.
The color evaluation differs slightly for standard blue sapphires versus fancy colored sapphires. For blue sapphires, simply stating “sapphire” is sufficient to describe the color. However, any sapphire exhibiting a color other than blue must be explicitly identified by its hue, such as “purple sapphire” or “green sapphire.”
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism surrounding sapphire is deeply rooted in its history and color. Blue sapphires are often associated with truth, loyalty, wisdom, and self-discovery. They are believed to promote clarity of thought, introspection, and a sense of inner peace. The September birthstone is also linked to water, imparting a soothing and calming energy.
In numerology, the number 2 is connected to sapphire, representing balance and intuition. Purple sapphires symbolize spirituality and royalty, while orange sapphires evoke enthusiasm and energy, and green sapphires embody growth and harmony. These varied color associations contribute to the gemstone’s versatility and personal significance. Wearing a sapphire is believed to help individuals connect with their inner voice and live authentically.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphires’ exceptional hardness makes them relatively easy to care for. Their durability allows them to withstand the rigors of daily wear, whether set in an engagement ring or delicate earrings. However, like all gemstones, sapphires benefit from proper cleaning and maintenance.
Generally, sapphires can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gem’s surface. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated sapphires, but caution should be exercised with stones that have undergone treatments, such as heat treatment, to enhance their color or clarity. Regular cleaning will help maintain the sapphire’s brilliance and ensure its lasting beauty.
Conclusion
Sapphire, the September birthstone, is a gem of enduring beauty, rich history, and profound symbolism. From its ancient associations with royalty and protection to its modern-day appeal as a symbol of truth and self-discovery, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Whether admired for its classic blue hue or its vibrant array of fancy colors, this remarkable gemstone remains a treasured possession for generations to come. Its exceptional durability, coupled with its captivating allure, solidifies sapphire’s position as one of the world’s most beloved and sought-after gemstones.