Sapphire, a gemstone steeped in history and revered for its captivating beauty, holds the distinguished position as the birthstone for September. Belonging to the corundum family, second in hardness only to diamond, sapphire is renowned for its durability and vibrant hues, most notably its classic deep blue. However, the term ‘sapphire’ encompasses a rainbow of colors, from pink and yellow to orange and green, each possessing unique appeal and symbolism. This article delves into the fascinating world of sapphire, exploring its history, geological origins, gemological properties, cultural significance, and practical care.
History and Lore
The name ‘sapphire’ originates from the Greek word sappheiros, and for centuries, this gemstone has adorned the robes and crowns of royalty and the elite. Its association with nobility dates back to medieval times, symbolizing sincerity, faithfulness, and truth. The deep blue color, particularly, has long been linked to wisdom, virtue, and good fortune.
A notable moment in sapphire’s modern history occurred with Prince Charles’s engagement to Lady Diana Spencer. The iconic deep blue sapphire engagement ring, surrounded by a halo of diamonds, captured the world’s attention and continues to be a symbol of romance and enduring love, now worn by Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton. This event significantly boosted the sapphire’s popularity, particularly as a choice for engagement rings.
Ancient cultures also held sapphire in high esteem. In ancient Sanskrit, the ruby – a red variety of corundum and thus sapphire’s close relative – was called “ratnaraj,” meaning “king of precious stones.” Warriors in Burma (now Myanmar) believed rubies offered protection in battle, even embedding them under their skin. While the sources focus more on the blue variety, the broader corundum family, including ruby, has a rich history of symbolic and protective use.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of corundum, an aluminum oxide mineral with the chemical formula Al2O3. Its crystalline structure is hexagonal, featuring four axes, three of equal length intersecting at 60-degree angles, and one of unequal length intersecting at a right angle. The presence of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, is responsible for the characteristic blue color of many sapphires. Different trace elements create the spectrum of other colors found in this gemstone. Red corundum is specifically classified as ruby.
Historically, Kashmir, a mountainous region in northern India bordering Pakistan, has been a significant source of highly prized cornflower blue sapphires. These stones are exceptionally rare and command high prices due to their geographic isolation, political instability in the region, and high demand. However, Sri Lanka is currently considered the world’s most famous source for fine blue sapphires, with mines in Meetiyagoda producing stones with an intense blue sheen. Other notable sources include Myanmar, Cambodia, parts of the United States of America, and Australia.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire’s exceptional durability is a key characteristic, ranking a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. This makes it an excellent choice for everyday wear, including engagement rings and other jewelry. Its hardness is second only to diamond, and it also possesses industrial applications due to this property.
While blue is the most well-known color, sapphires occur in a wide range of hues, including pink, yellow, orange, green, purple, and even colorless and black. A particularly rare and sought-after variety is the Padparadscha sapphire, a pink-orange corundum resembling a tropical sunset. The intensity of the color is determined by the quantity of trace elements present.
The most expensive sapphires are generally cornflower blue, owing to their rarity and the desirability of this specific shade. The physical and optical properties of sapphire are identical to those of ruby, except for color. The Federal Trade Commission legally defines pink corundum as sapphire, eliminating the term "pink ruby" from gemological trade practices.
Here's a table summarizing key gemological properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum |
| Chemical Formula | Al2O3 |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Common Colors | Blue, Pink, Yellow, Green, Orange, Purple, Colorless, Black |
| Specific Gravity | (Data not provided in sources) |
| Refractive Index | (Data not provided in sources) |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphire is associated with a variety of positive attributes and beliefs. The blue sapphire, in particular, symbolizes depth, trust, and love. Yellow sapphires are linked to vitality, joy, and optimism, while pink sapphires represent romance and tenderness, and green sapphires embody renewal, growth, and harmony.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, sapphire is believed to offer protection from negativity and promote a more organized lifestyle for those born in September. Some believe wearing sapphire can impart wisdom and transform negative moods into positive ones. Historically, the gemstone was associated with fidelity and the soul.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is a relatively durable gemstone. However, proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance. Sapphires can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone’s surface. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated sapphires, but caution should be exercised with stones that have been fracture-filled or heat-treated. Regular cleaning will help preserve the sapphire’s luster and ensure it continues to sparkle for generations.
Conclusion
Sapphire, the September birthstone, is a gemstone of enduring beauty, rich history, and profound symbolism. From its ancient origins as a symbol of royalty and virtue to its modern-day popularity as a choice for engagement rings, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its exceptional durability, combined with its stunning array of colors, makes it a treasured possession for gemstone enthusiasts and a meaningful gift for those born under its celestial influence. The gemstone’s association with wisdom, faithfulness, and protection further enhances its significance, solidifying its place as a timeless and beloved treasure.