The September birthstone, sapphire, is one of the most captivating and historically significant gemstones in the world. Known for its deep blue hue, sapphire is not only the birthstone of September but also a symbol of nobility, truth, and spiritual insight. The color of this gemstone, ranging from the purest blue to hues tinged with green or violet, has fascinated civilizations for millennia. Sapphires have adorned royalty, been revered for their healing properties, and continue to be a popular choice for jewelry due to their durability and timeless appeal.
This article explores the rich history, gemological properties, cultural symbolism, and practical care of sapphires. Drawing from authoritative sources and historical accounts, we will uncover the significance of this blue gemstone and its enduring allure across centuries.
A History of Sapphires and September
Sapphires have long been regarded as precious gemstones, with their deep blue color evoking the skies and the sea. The September birthstone's association with the sapphire is rooted in centuries of tradition and cultural significance. The name "sapphire" comes from the Greek word sappheiros, which originally referred to lapis lazuli, a blue mineral used in ancient times for its beauty and rarity. Over time, the term came to describe the blue corundum that we now recognize as the sapphire.
In ancient Greece and Rome, sapphires were believed to protect their wearers from harm and envy. The elite of these societies considered the gemstone to be a powerful talisman. Sapphires were also highly valued by the clergy of the Middle Ages, who saw them as symbols of Heaven and divine wisdom. This association with the divine further elevated the status of the sapphire, reinforcing its role as a gemstone of spiritual and moral significance.
The September birthstone was officially recognized in the early 20th century by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912. This designation solidified the sapphire's role as a symbol of September and expanded its use in jewelry and commemorative occasions. Sapphires are not only associated with September but also mark the 5th, 23rd, and 45th wedding anniversaries, with a rare star sapphire marking the 65th anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are a type of corundum, a mineral composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The blue color of sapphires is due to trace amounts of iron and titanium within the crystal structure. The presence of these elements gives sapphires their characteristic deep blue hue, while other trace elements can produce sapphires in a range of colors, including yellow, green, pink, and even colorless. These non-blue sapphires are often referred to as "fancy sapphires."
Sapphires form deep within the Earth's crust under intense heat and pressure. They are typically found in metamorphic rocks such as marble and in igneous rocks like basalt. The conditions required for sapphire formation are rare, making high-quality sapphires relatively uncommon. The most famous sources of sapphires include:
- Afghanistan: Known for producing some of the oldest sapphires, including the lapis lazuli that was historically referred to as sapphire.
- Sri Lanka: A major producer of sapphires, particularly in the Ratnapura region, known for its high-quality blue sapphires.
- India: Sapphires have been mined in India for centuries, with the Kollur mine in the Golconda region being a historic source of large, high-quality stones.
- Myanmar (Burma): Famous for its "pigeon's blood" sapphires, which are considered some of the finest in the world.
- Australia: Known for producing large sapphires, often with a lighter blue color.
- Madagascar and Thailand: These countries have also emerged as significant sapphire producers in recent decades.
The rarity and beauty of sapphires have made them highly sought after in the jewelry industry. The September birthstone's deep blue color is particularly prized, and sapphires are often cut into various shapes, including round, oval, cushion, and emerald cuts, to enhance their brilliance and color.
Gemological Properties of Sapphires
Sapphires are among the hardest and most durable gemstones, making them ideal for everyday wear. On the Mohs Hardness Scale, sapphires score a 9, second only to diamonds, which score a 10. This high hardness means that sapphires are resistant to scratches and wear, ensuring their longevity in jewelry.
The refractive index of sapphires ranges from 1.76 to 1.78, which contributes to their brilliance and sparkle. Sapphires can vary in clarity, with some stones containing inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. However, inclusions are often considered part of the gemstone's character and can add to its uniqueness. High-quality sapphires are typically eye-clean, meaning they have no visible inclusions when viewed with the naked eye.
Sapphires are also known for their pleochroism, a property that allows them to display different colors when viewed from different angles. Some sapphires exhibit a color change depending on the lighting, appearing blue in daylight and purple under incandescent light. This phenomenon, known as color change, is relatively rare and adds to the allure of these gemstones.
The color of sapphires can range from a pale blue to a deep, intense blue known as "royal blue." The most valuable sapphires are those with a deep, even blue color that is free from secondary hues such as green or violet. The presence of iron and titanium in the crystal structure determines the intensity of the blue color, with higher concentrations resulting in a deeper hue.
Sapphires are available in a wide range of sizes, from small stones used in earrings and pendants to large, impressive gemstones used in statement rings and necklaces. The most famous example of a large sapphire is the one given by Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981, a 12-carat oval blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. In medieval Europe, sapphires were believed to have healing properties and were used to treat ailments such as plague, eye diseases, and poison. Sapphires were also thought to bring protection to their wearers, shielding them from harm and envy.
In ancient Persia, sapphires were believed to represent the heavens, with the earth resting on a giant sapphire that made the sky appear blue. This belief reinforced the sapphire's association with divine wisdom and spiritual insight. During the Renaissance, sapphires were worn by scholars and philosophers as symbols of truth and knowledge.
Sapphires are also linked to the zodiac signs of Virgo and Libra, as September is the birth month for these signs. Those born in September are said to benefit from the sapphire's properties of wisdom, clarity, and emotional balance. Sapphires are believed to enhance communication, encourage honesty, and promote inner peace.
In modern times, sapphires continue to be valued for their symbolic meaning. They are often used in engagement rings as a symbol of enduring love and commitment. The sapphire's association with royalty and nobility makes it a fitting choice for those seeking a gemstone that represents timeless elegance and strength.
Care and Maintenance of Sapphires
While sapphires are durable gemstones, they still require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Because sapphires score a 9 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, they are resistant to scratches and abrasion. However, they can be damaged if exposed to high impact or extreme temperatures.
To clean sapphires, use a soft cloth and mild soap or a jewelry cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone's surface or the metal setting. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for sapphires, but it is advisable to consult a professional jeweler before using them, especially if the sapphire has inclusions or is set in a delicate setting.
Sapphires should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It is also important to avoid exposing sapphires to sudden temperature changes, such as moving from a cold environment to a hot one, as this can cause stress and potential fractures.
When wearing sapphire jewelry, it is advisable to avoid activities that could subject the gemstone to impact, such as heavy lifting or contact sports. Regular inspections by a professional jeweler can help identify any potential issues and ensure that the sapphire remains in excellent condition.
Conclusion
The September birthstone, sapphire, is a gemstone of remarkable beauty, historical significance, and enduring value. Its deep blue color, which ranges from pure blue to hues tinged with green or violet, has captivated people for centuries. Sapphires have been revered for their association with royalty, wisdom, and spiritual insight, making them a symbol of nobility and truth.
From their geological formation in the Earth's crust to their use in jewelry and their symbolic meaning, sapphires are a gemstone that continues to inspire and enchant. Their high hardness and durability make them ideal for everyday wear, while their association with the zodiac signs of Virgo and Libra adds to their cultural significance. Whether used in an engagement ring, a pendant, or a statement necklace, sapphires are a timeless choice that combines beauty, strength, and meaning.
As the birthstone of September, sapphires hold a special place in the world of gemstones. Their deep blue hue, symbolic meaning, and rich history make them a gemstone that is both treasured and timeless.