Sapphire, the captivating birthstone of September, has been revered for millennia for its beauty, durability, and rich symbolism. Traditionally known for its stunning blue hues, this gem actually encompasses a rainbow of colors, each with its own unique appeal. Belonging to the corundum family – the same family as ruby – sapphire holds a prominent place in history, mythology, and modern jewelry. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gemstone, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is deeply interwoven with tales of royalty, spirituality, and healing. The name “sapphire” itself originates from the Greek word “sappheiros,” reflecting the gem’s long-standing presence in ancient cultures. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed the blue sapphire offered protection from harm and envy. Within the elite circles of these civilizations, sapphires were prized possessions, signifying status and safeguarding their wearers.
Medieval Europeans continued to associate sapphire with virtue and healing. It was believed to cure plague boils and alleviate eye diseases, and even serve as an antidote to poison. Clergy of the Middle Ages favored sapphires, associating the gem’s deep blue color with Heaven, and often incorporating it into their robes. Ancient Persians held an even more grandiose belief, imagining the world rested upon a giant sapphire, which was responsible for the blue color of the sky.
The gem’s historical significance extends beyond the Mediterranean world. Ancient Buddhists believed sapphires promoted inner peace, while in Islamic tradition, sapphires were among the most cherished of precious stones, adorning the seven heavens. Remarkably, some legends even suggest the Ten Commandments were inscribed on tablets of sapphire, highlighting the gem’s association with divine law and unbreakable strength.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are formed from the mineral corundum, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. Interestingly, corundum in its pure state is colorless. The vibrant colors seen in sapphires – including the famed blue – are a result of trace elements within the crystal structure, such as iron, titanium, or chromium. The presence and concentration of these elements dictate the final hue of the gem.
While blue sapphires are the most well-known, sapphires occur in a wide spectrum of colors, including orange, yellow, green, pink, and purple. These colored varieties are often referred to as “fancy sapphires.”
Currently, Sri Lanka is noted as a primary source for high-quality sapphires. However, sapphires are also found in various locations around the globe, though specific source details beyond Sri Lanka are not provided in the available sources.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional durability, ranking nine on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes them exceptionally well-suited for everyday wear, rivaled in hardness only by diamonds. This resilience allows sapphires to withstand scratches and abrasions, maintaining their brilliance for generations.
The chemical formula for corundum, and therefore sapphire, is Al₂O₃. A high-quality 1-carat blue sapphire can range in price from $3000 to $5000, though prices are subject to daily fluctuations.
Sapphires exhibit a variety of colors, with blue being the most iconic. However, each color carries its own symbolism: blue sapphires represent depth, trust, and love; yellow sapphires are linked to vitality, joy, and optimism; pink sapphires symbolize romance and tenderness; and green sapphires evoke renewal, growth, and harmony.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphires have been imbued with profound symbolic meaning. Traditionally, the September birthstone symbolizes sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. Beyond these core virtues, sapphires are believed to offer protection from negativity and promote a more organized lifestyle for those born in September.
The color of the sapphire also contributes to its symbolic weight. Blue sapphires, in particular, are associated with wisdom and the ability to transform negative moods into positive ones. Wearing a sapphire is thought to bestow special protection upon the wearer.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their exceptional hardness, sapphires are relatively easy to care for. Warm, soapy water is a safe and effective method for routine cleaning. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated sapphires. However, caution is advised for sapphires that have undergone fracture filling or dyeing, as these treatments can be damaged by harsh cleaning methods. In such cases, cleaning with a damp cloth is recommended.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its ancient origins steeped in mythology and royalty to its modern-day appeal as a symbol of love, wisdom, and protection, the September birthstone continues to captivate and inspire. Its exceptional durability, coupled with its stunning array of colors, ensures that sapphire will remain a cherished gem for generations to come. The gem’s rich history and enduring symbolism solidify its position as a truly remarkable and significant gemstone.