For millennia, the sapphire has captivated humanity with its rich colors, enduring beauty, and symbolic significance. As the recognized birthstone for September, this gem holds a prominent place in history, lore, and modern jewelry. While most commonly associated with a deep, velvety blue, the sapphire actually encompasses a spectrum of hues, making it a remarkably versatile and cherished gemstone. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural meanings of the September birthstone, exploring its enduring appeal and continued relevance.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is deeply interwoven with tales of royalty, faith, and protection. Ancient civilizations, including those of Greece and Rome, held blue sapphires in high esteem, believing they shielded their wearers from harm and envy. These early cultures associated the gem with nobility and divine favor. Medieval Europeans continued this tradition, attributing healing powers to the sapphire, believing it could cure plague boils, alleviate eye diseases, and even serve as an antidote to poison.
Clerics of the Middle Ages particularly valued sapphires, associating the gem’s deep blue color with Heaven. This connection further solidified the sapphire’s association with piety and spiritual enlightenment. Ancient Persian mythology even posited that the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, responsible for the blue color of the sky. This belief underscores the profound reverence for the stone in ancient cultures.
Throughout history, sapphires have adorned the crowns and jewelry of monarchs, symbolizing power, wisdom, and faithfulness. Notable examples include the Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat stone with a rich history, having been acquired from an Indian maharaja in 1934. More recently, the 12-carat blue sapphire engagement ring worn by Princess Diana and later by Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, has cemented the sapphire’s status as a symbol of enduring romance and royal elegance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). In its pure form, corundum is colorless. The vibrant colors seen in sapphires – including blue, pink, yellow, green, violet, and even black – are created by trace elements within the crystal structure. For example, iron and titanium contribute to blue hues, while chromium can produce pink shades. It is important to note that the red variety of corundum is known as ruby, and is considered a separate gemstone.
Historically significant sources of sapphires include Kashmir, Myanmar (formerly Burma), and Sri Lanka. These regions were renowned for producing exceptional quality sapphires with distinctive characteristics. However, significant deposits have also been discovered in Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, and the United States, particularly in Montana. The presence of these diverse sources contributes to the availability of sapphires in a range of colors and qualities.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional durability, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness – second only to diamond. This high hardness makes them highly resistant to scratching and abrasion, ideal for everyday wear.
Here's a summary of key gemological properties:
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum (Al₂O₃) |
| Hardness | 9 on the Mohs scale |
| Classic Color | Deep “royal” blue |
| Other Hues | Pink, yellow, green, violet, black, color-change |
| Major Sources | Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia, Montana (USA) |
Sapphires exhibit a vitreous luster and can be found in a variety of shapes and cuts, depending on the quality of the rough stone and the preferences of the gem cutter. While the classic sapphire color is a deep, saturated blue, sapphires are available in a wide spectrum of hues, offering a diverse range of options for jewelry designers and collectors.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphires have been imbued with rich symbolism. Traditionally, the sapphire represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. These associations stem from the gem’s historical connections to royalty, religion, and its perceived protective qualities.
Beyond these traditional meanings, sapphires are also believed to possess metaphysical properties. Some believe they promote wisdom, focus, and mental clarity. Others associate sapphires with spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. In Vedic astrology, yellow sapphires are particularly prized for their optimistic and energizing properties.
While these metaphysical beliefs are not scientifically proven, they contribute to the enduring allure of the sapphire and its appeal to those seeking a gemstone with deeper meaning.
Alternate September Birthstones
While sapphire is the most widely recognized September birthstone, historically, other gems have also been associated with this month. These include Lapis Lazuli and Carnelian. Lapis Lazuli, known for its intense blue color and often speckled with pyrite, was believed to promote strength, courage, and wisdom. Ancient Egyptians even powdered it and used it as eye makeup, believing it enhanced eyesight. Carnelian, a reddish-orange gemstone, was associated with courage, confidence, and good fortune by the Romans and Egyptians.
However, modern birthstone charts predominantly feature sapphire as the primary September birthstone, with spinel, citrine, and tanzanite being more recent additions to the modern list.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their exceptional hardness, sapphires are relatively durable and easy to care for. However, like all gemstones, they require proper handling to maintain their brilliance and beauty. Sapphires can be safely cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone.
It is also advisable to remove sapphire jewelry before engaging in strenuous activities or when exposed to harsh chemicals. Regular cleaning will help to remove dirt and oils, ensuring that the sapphire continues to sparkle and shine.
Conclusion
The sapphire remains a timeless and captivating gemstone, steeped in history, symbolism, and geological wonder. From its ancient associations with royalty and protection to its modern status as a beloved birthstone, the sapphire continues to inspire and enchant. Its remarkable durability, diverse color palette, and enduring beauty ensure its place as one of the world’s most cherished gemstones. Whether admired for its aesthetic appeal or its perceived metaphysical properties, the sapphire’s legacy is sure to endure for generations to come.