The month of September is graced by the captivating blue of the sapphire, its birthstone, and the delicate beauty of the aster flower, its floral counterpart. This pairing represents a confluence of regal history and natural symbolism, offering a rich tapestry of meaning for those born in the ninth month of the year. The sapphire, long associated with royalty and spiritual clarity, is often found alongside jewelry inspired by the aster, a bloom whose name originates from the Greek word for “star.” This article will delve into the history, lore, and significance of both the sapphire and the aster, exploring their connection as symbols of September.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months has ancient roots, tracing back to the biblical Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus, which was adorned with twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones became linked to the zodiac signs and, eventually, to the months of the year. While the standardization of the modern birthstone list occurred in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers, the practice of attributing meaning to gemstones extends back millennia.
The aster flower also boasts a rich history steeped in mythology and symbolism. Greek legend tells of Asteria, a Titan goddess who wept tears that transformed into star-shaped aster flowers, giving the bloom its name, meaning “star” in Greek. Ancient cultures utilized asters, believing their smoke could ward off evil and negative energy, and even employing them medicinally for ailments like migraines and muscle aches. In France, asters serve as a poignant symbol of remembrance, placed on the graves of fallen soldiers to honor their sacrifice. The flower also gained political significance, becoming a symbol of the Hungarian Revolution, with participants wearing asters in their lapels.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not contain information regarding the geological formation or mining locations of sapphires. However, they do state that sapphires are well-known for their rich violet-blue hues, and also come in a rainbow of other colors including yellow, orange and even pink.
The aster flower is indigenous to North America but is also found in Europe, South America, and Asia. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, the second-largest family of flowers, with over 600 varieties, though only two subspecies are commonly recognized.
Gemological Properties
The sources focus primarily on the symbolic and historical aspects of the sapphire rather than its detailed gemological properties. It is noted that sapphire comes in a variety of colors, including blue, yellow, orange, and pink, with the word “Sapphire” itself meaning blue in Greek. The sources mention a 3 mm lab-made sapphire used in a ring, but provide no further details regarding its chemical composition, hardness, or other gemological characteristics.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Both the sapphire and the aster are imbued with significant symbolism. Sapphires are believed to attract abundance, blessings, and gifts, and are used for protection against negative energies, calming the mind, enhancing intuition, and promoting spiritual clarity.
The aster flower carries a multifaceted symbolism. Generally, it represents love, wisdom, and faith. However, the color of the aster further refines its meaning: purple asters symbolize wisdom and royalty and are traditionally given for 20th wedding anniversaries; white asters signify purity and innocence, making them popular in bridal bouquets; red asters represent undying devotion; and pink asters embody sensitivity and love. The aster’s star-like shape reinforces its connection to the cosmos and the divine.
Cultural Significance
The sapphire’s association with royalty is longstanding, lending it an air of prestige and nobility. The aster, while not traditionally linked to royalty, holds cultural significance in various contexts. Its use as a symbol of remembrance in France and its role in the Hungarian Revolution demonstrate its capacity to represent honor, sacrifice, and political ideals. The aster’s connection to the goddess Asteria further elevates its symbolic weight, linking it to themes of love, loss, and celestial beauty.
Sapphire in Jewelry and Design
The sources highlight the use of sapphires in contemporary jewelry design. One example is a 14K gold ring featuring a 3 mm lab-made sapphire, inspired by the September birth flower, the aster. The jewelry designer, Amelia Ray, emphasizes sustainability and ethical sourcing in her work, utilizing 3D printing and non-plastic packaging. The aster flower is also directly incorporated into jewelry, as seen in a 14K September Aster Flower Necklace, which combines the aster bloom with a blue sapphire.
The Aster as a Floral Gift
The aster’s diverse color palette and symbolic meanings make it a versatile and thoughtful floral gift. Purple asters are ideal for celebrating a 20th wedding anniversary, while white asters are appropriate for weddings and occasions where purity and innocence are valued. Red asters offer a more affordable alternative to roses for expressing romantic love, and pink asters convey sensitivity and affection.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific care and cleaning instructions for sapphires or asters. However, given that the sapphire is a gemstone, general gemstone care guidelines would apply.
Conclusion
The September birthstone, the sapphire, and the September birth flower, the aster, represent a harmonious blend of regal history, celestial symbolism, and natural beauty. The sapphire, with its association with wisdom, protection, and abundance, complements the aster’s representation of love, faith, and remembrance. Together, they embody the essence of September, offering a meaningful connection to the month for those born within it and a rich source of inspiration for jewelry designers and flower enthusiasts alike. The aster’s story, from Greek mythology to modern-day symbolism, adds depth and nuance to the already captivating allure of the sapphire, creating a unique and enduring pairing.