Sapphire is the recognized birthstone for September, a gem steeped in history, symbolism, and geological fascination. Belonging to the corundum family, it is renowned for its captivating colors, most notably its classic blue shades, but also encompassing a spectrum of “fancy” colors. For millennia, sapphire has been associated with royalty, faith, and wisdom, and continues to be a highly prized gemstone in the modern era. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of this remarkable stone.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is interwoven with tales of ancient civilizations and enduring beliefs. The name “sapphire” itself originates from the Greek word sappheiros, reflecting the stone’s long-held appreciation in ancient Greece. Both the Greeks and Romans believed the blue sapphire offered protection from harm and envy. Ancient Greeks associated the stone with Zeus and Apollo, while medieval clergy valued sapphires for their symbolic representation of Heaven, often adorning themselves with the gem.
Persian lore held an even more dramatic belief – that the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, which was responsible for the blue color of the sky. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, sapphire was also attributed with healing properties. Medieval Europeans believed it could cure plague boils, alleviate eye diseases, and even serve as an antidote to poison.
More recently, notable sapphires have captured public imagination. The Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone originating from Myanmar (Burma), exemplifies the gem’s enduring allure. Another iconic sapphire is the 12-carat blue gem featured in the engagement ring of Princess Diana, now worn by Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, further cementing the stone’s association with romance and royalty.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, composed of aluminum oxide. The presence of trace elements – titanium, iron, vanadium, chromium, and magnesium – dictates the resulting color. While blue sapphires, colored by titanium and iron, are the most well-known, corundum that presents as red is classified as ruby, not sapphire.
Historically significant sources of sapphires include Kashmir, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka. These locations were renowned for producing exceptional quality stones. However, significant quantities are now also sourced from Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, and even the United States, specifically Montana.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are highly regarded for their durability and beauty. As a member of the corundum family, sapphire ranks 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear. This hardness is second only to diamond. The chemical formula for sapphire is Al₂O₃.
While blue is the most recognized color, sapphires occur in a wide range of hues, referred to as “fancy colored” sapphires. These include pink, purple, yellow, green, white (colorless), and black. A particularly rare and valuable variety is the padparadscha sapphire, exhibiting a delicate pinkish-orange color. Some sapphires even display color change properties, shifting hues depending on the type of light they are viewed under, a phenomenon caused by high vanadium content and the way the stone absorbs and refracts light.
The color of a sapphire is evaluated based on its hue, tone, and saturation. Blue sapphires are simply referred to as “sapphire” if predominantly blue, while other colors require specific descriptors, such as “purple sapphire” or “green sapphire.”
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with rich symbolism. Traditionally, the September birthstone represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. This symbolism contributed to its frequent use in royal and religious contexts. The stone is often associated with fidelity and the soul, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other tokens of lasting commitment.
Beyond its symbolic meaning, sapphire was also believed to possess metaphysical properties. Medieval Europeans attributed healing powers to the stone, believing it could cure various ailments.
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 remains a cherished possession for generations.
Sapphire Varieties and Distinctions
It is important to note the distinction between sapphire and ruby. Both are varieties of the mineral corundum, but the presence of chromium gives ruby its characteristic red color. While some might technically consider ruby a “red sapphire,” the gemological community classifies them as separate gemstones.
The term “fancy sapphire” encompasses all colors of corundum except red (ruby). These include a wide array of shades, each with its own unique appeal and value. Color-change sapphires, exhibiting a shift in hue under different lighting conditions, are particularly prized for their rarity and captivating effect.
September Birthstone for Specific Dates
Regardless of the specific date in September, sapphire is the designated birthstone. Whether born on September 9th, 17th, 22nd, or any other day of the month, individuals can proudly claim sapphire as their birthstone.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of gemstones. From its ancient origins steeped in mythology and symbolism to its modern-day appeal as a cherished jewel, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its remarkable durability, stunning array of colors, and rich history make it a truly exceptional gemstone, perfectly embodying the spirit of September. The stone’s association with royalty, faith, and wisdom ensures its place as a timeless treasure for generations to come.