The September birthstone is one of the most revered and historically significant gemstones in the world. Known primarily for its deep blue hue, sapphire has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight. While the classic blue sapphire is the most iconic, this gemstone comes in a range of colors, making it a versatile and timeless choice for jewelry and personal expression. As the birthstone for those born in September, sapphire carries with it centuries of symbolism, from its role in ancient mythology to its modern-day status as one of the four precious gemstones, alongside diamond, ruby, and emerald.
This article provides an in-depth exploration of the September birthstone, focusing on its color, history, gemological properties, and cultural significance. Drawing from a selection of authoritative sources, we will examine the origins of sapphire as the designated September birthstone, its geological formation, and the meanings and beliefs attributed to it across different cultures and eras.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire as a birthstone is deeply intertwined with ancient traditions, religious symbolism, and the evolution of gemstone lore. Though modern birthstone charts typically attribute sapphire as the September birthstone, historical records and cultural practices suggest a more nuanced and sometimes conflicting narrative.
Sapphire has been a gemstone of great significance for thousands of years. The term "sapphire" is derived from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning "blue" or "precious stone." In ancient times, people believed that the sapphire reflected the color of the heavens and was used to connect the earthly realm with the divine. The ancient Greeks and Romans associated sapphires with protection from harm and envy, and medieval clerics wore them because they symbolized Heaven.
One of the most intriguing historical aspects of the September birthstone is the mention of an alternative or possibly original stone. According to one source, the original September birthstone was erroneously switched with another and is now considered the birthstone of a different month. This suggests that the association of sapphire with September may not have been fixed in ancient times but was rather established through later cultural or commercial influences.
In addition to sapphire, lapis lazuli has historically been associated with September. Lapis lazuli, another deep blue gemstone, was used as an alternative birthstone in certain traditions, particularly in British birthstone charts. This connection dates back to ancient times when lapis lazuli was highly prized for its rich color and symbolic meaning. In contrast to the more modern association with sapphire, lapis lazuli was used in jewelry and ceremonial objects by ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, and others.
In some traditions, zircon has also been listed as an alternative September birthstone. However, this is much less common and is rarely seen in modern birthstone charts. These alternative associations suggest that the designation of sapphire as the September birthstone was not always universally agreed upon and may have been influenced by regional or cultural preferences.
The historical significance of sapphire extends beyond its role as a birthstone. It has long been associated with royalty and divine favor. Sapphires were believed to bring wisdom and protection, making them popular among monarchs and religious leaders. In ancient Persia, it was even believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire, which gave the sky its blue color.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). What distinguishes sapphire from ruby is the trace element responsible for its color. While ruby gets its red color from chromium, sapphire gets its blue hue from the presence of iron and titanium. However, sapphires can also occur in other colors such as yellow, green, and pink, depending on the specific trace elements and impurities present.
The formation of sapphire requires specific geological conditions. Corundum is typically formed in metamorphic rocks or in igneous rocks that have undergone high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. Over time, these conditions cause the aluminum oxide to crystallize, and trace elements like iron and titanium give sapphire its characteristic blue color.
Sapphires are found in several countries around the world, each producing stones with unique characteristics. Some of the most notable sources of sapphire include:
- Sri Lanka: Known for producing high-quality blue sapphires with a velvety appearance.
- Myanmar (Burma): Famous for its "pigeon’s blood" sapphires, which are among the most prized in the world for their intense red-orange-pink color (although this is a ruby, not a sapphire).
- India: Historically a major source of sapphires, particularly in the Kolar Gold Fields.
- Madagascar: Known for producing a wide range of sapphire colors, including the popular "Madagascan blue."
- Australia: A significant modern source of sapphires, particularly in the state of New South Wales.
- Thailand: Known for its sapphire trade and treatment of sapphires to enhance their color.
The mining of sapphire is often done through alluvial deposits, where the gemstone has been eroded from its primary source and deposited in riverbeds or other sedimentary environments. This makes sapphires relatively accessible for small-scale mining operations, and they are often found in rough form before being cut and polished.
Gemological Properties
From a gemological perspective, sapphire is one of the hardest and most durable gemstones, making it an excellent choice for jewelry. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, sapphire scores a 9, second only to diamond, which scores a 10. This high hardness makes sapphire resistant to scratches and wear, allowing it to maintain its brilliance and clarity over time.
The refractive index of sapphire typically ranges from 1.76 to 1.78, which contributes to its brilliance and fire. Sapphires can vary in transparency, with the most valuable stones being those that are clear and free of inclusions. However, some inclusions are considered natural and can even enhance the character of the stone, especially when they are not visible to the naked eye.
Sapphire is also known for its pleochroism, a property that allows the stone to display different colors when viewed from different angles. This is particularly noticeable in sapphires that contain trace elements other than iron and titanium.
The most popular cut for sapphires is the brilliant cut, which is designed to maximize the stone's fire and brilliance. However, sapphires are also commonly cut in other styles, including the emerald cut, cushion cut, and pear cut, depending on the shape and size of the rough stone.
Sapphires are available in a wide range of carat weights, from small stones used in earrings and pendants to large, statement pieces used in rings and brooches. The value of a sapphire is determined by several factors, including its color, clarity, cut, carat weight, and origin. The most valuable sapphires are those with a deep, rich blue color and high clarity.
In terms of chemical stability, sapphire is a relatively stable gemstone. It is not easily affected by common household chemicals, making it easy to clean and maintain. However, it should be protected from sudden temperature changes and high-impact forces, which can cause it to chip or crack.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been associated with a wide range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. In many cultures, sapphire has been regarded as a stone of wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight. It is believed to promote clarity of thought, enhance intuition, and protect the wearer from negative influences.
In ancient Greece and Rome, sapphires were believed to bring protection from harm and envy. The Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder wrote about sapphires in his work Natural History, describing them as stones that could ward off poison and disease. Medieval Europeans believed that sapphires could cure plague boils and diseases of the eye, and they were also thought to be an antidote to poison.
In the Middle Ages, sapphires were associated with the heavens and were often worn by clerics and religious leaders. They were believed to represent the divine and to bring the wearer closer to God. In some traditions, sapphires were used in religious ceremonies and were placed in the crowns of monarchs to symbolize their divine right to rule.
Sapphires have also been associated with love and fidelity. In ancient Persia, it was believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire, which gave the sky its blue color. This connection to the heavens and the natural world reinforced the idea of sapphire as a symbol of purity and divine favor.
In modern times, sapphire continues to be associated with wisdom, truth, and protection. It is often used in engagement rings and wedding jewelry as a symbol of enduring love and commitment. The deep blue color of sapphire is also seen as a representation of the infinite and the unknown, making it a powerful symbol of exploration and discovery.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its high hardness and durability, sapphire is relatively easy to care for and maintain. However, proper cleaning and storage are essential to preserving its beauty and longevity.
Sapphires should be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and oils that can dull their appearance. A simple cleaning method involves using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Gently scrub the stone with a soft-bristled brush, then rinse it with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. This method is safe for most sapphires and is effective for removing surface dirt and grime.
For more thorough cleaning, ultrasonic cleaners can be used. These devices use high-frequency sound waves to agitate the cleaning solution and remove dirt from the stone. However, ultrasonic cleaners should be used with caution, as they can be harmful to certain types of gemstones and jewelry settings.
Sapphires should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching. Due to their high hardness, sapphires can scratch softer gemstones like emerald, topaz, and quartz. It is also important to protect sapphires from sudden temperature changes, as this can cause them to crack or chip.
When wearing sapphire jewelry, it is important to avoid exposing it to high-impact forces or rough handling. While sapphires are highly durable, they can still be damaged if subjected to excessive force or impact. It is also important to avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, which can damage the stone or its setting.
Conclusion
The September birthstone, sapphire, is a gemstone of great historical significance, symbolic meaning, and gemological value. From its deep blue color to its association with wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight, sapphire has captivated people for centuries. Whether worn as jewelry or given as a gift, sapphire remains a timeless and meaningful gemstone that continues to be cherished by those born in September.
With its high hardness and durability, sapphire is an excellent choice for everyday wear, making it a popular option for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewelry pieces. Its rich history and cultural significance further enhance its appeal, making it a gemstone that is both beautiful and meaningful.
As we have seen, the association of sapphire with September is not only based on its color and properties but also on its historical and symbolic significance. Whether viewed through the lens of gemology, history, or personal belief, sapphire remains one of the most enduring and beloved birthstones.