The world of gemstones offers a captivating blend of beauty, history, and scientific intrigue. Among these treasures, certain stones stand out not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their remarkable durability. This article will explore the strongest birthstones, focusing on diamond, sapphire, and spinel, examining their geological origins, gemological properties, historical significance, and cultural lore, as revealed by available sources.
Historical Significance and Lore
Throughout history, gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning and believed to possess various powers. Sapphire, the September birthstone, boasts a rich folklore. Sources indicate that in the Middle Ages, Christian clergy wore blue sapphires as symbols of heaven, associating the gem with wisdom, purity, and faith. Traditionally, sapphires were believed to protect loved ones from harm. While commonly associated with blue hues, sapphire actually occurs in every color except red – a gem being defined as corundum that isn’t red (which is ruby).
Spinel, now recognized as a modern August birthstone, was historically mistaken for ruby and sapphire. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that spinel was distinguished as a unique mineral. This gem has been valued for its brilliance and durability, and is found in locations like Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Myanmar.
Diamond, the April birthstone, arguably holds the most romanticized position in the gemstone world. Its enduring appeal stems not only from its brilliance but also from its exceptional hardness.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of these strong birthstones occurs under intense geological conditions. Sapphires, a variety of the mineral corundum, are formed deep within the Earth’s crust under high pressure and heat. They are found globally, with significant deposits in various locations.
Spinel also forms deep within the Earth’s mantle, and is found in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Myanmar.
Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under extreme pressure and temperature. They are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Analysis
The strength of a gemstone is often measured by its hardness, determined using the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This scale ranks minerals from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond), indicating their resistance to scratching.
Diamond reigns supreme in hardness, scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. This exceptional hardness is attributed to its unique atomic structure, where carbon atoms are arranged tetrahedrally, creating a dense and robust lattice. Interestingly, despite being composed of the same element – carbon – graphite scores less than 1 on the Mohs scale due to its layered, hexagonal structure.
Sapphire also exhibits impressive hardness, scoring a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale. This makes it one of the hardest gemstones, highly resistant to scratching and abrasion.
Spinel, while durable, is slightly less hard than sapphire and diamond, scoring between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs scale. This still places it among the harder gemstones, suitable for everyday wear.
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Mohs Hardness | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond | Carbon (C) | 10 | Colorless, Yellow, Brown, Blue, Pink |
| Sapphire | Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃) | 9 | Blue, Pink, Yellow, Green, Colorless |
| Spinel | Magnesium Aluminum Oxide (MgAl₂O₄) | 7.5-8 | Red, Pink, Blue, Green, Black |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical properties, these gemstones have been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs. Sapphires traditionally symbolize wisdom, purity, and faith. They were believed to protect loved ones from harm.
Spinel is believed to enhance vitality, promote positive energy, and bring a sense of peace and calm to the wearer.
Diamond, often associated with love and commitment, symbolizes enduring strength and purity.
Peridot, another August birthstone, was historically believed to ward off evil spirits and protect against nightmares, symbolizing strength and courage. Cleopatra was believed to have favored peridot, mistaking it for emerald.
Citrine, a November birthstone, is known as the “merchant’s stone” or “money stone,” believed to bring prosperity and prevent the accumulation of negative energy.
Topaz, also a November birthstone, represents friendship and is believed to promote strength and healing.
Tanzanite, a rare December birthstone, is thought to bring dreams to life, though finding high-quality stones can be challenging.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of these strong birthstones requires appropriate care. Due to its exceptional hardness, diamond is relatively resistant to scratching and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Sapphire, with its high hardness, can also be cleaned with warm, soapy water. However, it’s important to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Spinel, while durable, is slightly more susceptible to scratching than diamond and sapphire. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush is recommended.
Peridot requires careful handling as it has a lower hardness (6.5-7 on the Mohs scale). Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Citrine and Topaz, with hardness levels of 7 and 8 respectively, can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Tanzanite, with a hardness of 6.5, is relatively soft and requires gentle cleaning. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Additional August Birthstones
Beyond spinel and peridot, sardonyx is listed as a traditional August birthstone. This is a red and white variety of chalcedony.
November’s Dual Representation
November is represented by two birthstones: Citrine and Topaz. Topaz, traditionally yellow, now comes in a wide range of colors including blue, brown, green, pink, orange, grey, and reddish-pink.
December’s Trio of Gems
December boasts three birthstones: Zircon, Turquoise, and Tanzanite. Zircon, sometimes radioactive, is found in various colors. Turquoise, valued for its rarity, comes in shades of blue and green. Tanzanite, exceptionally rare, is found only in the Kilimanjaro Mountains and displays blue, violet, and burgundy hues.
Conclusion
Diamond, sapphire, and spinel represent some of the strongest and most captivating gemstones available. Their exceptional hardness, coupled with their rich history, symbolic meanings, and stunning beauty, makes them highly prized possessions. While diamond stands out as the hardest gemstone, sapphire and spinel offer excellent durability and a wide range of colors. Understanding the geological origins, gemological properties, and care requirements of these stones allows enthusiasts and buyers to appreciate their enduring value and significance. The diverse range of birthstones available each month offers a unique opportunity to connect with the natural world and celebrate personal milestones with a gem that resonates with individual preferences and beliefs.