For millennia, the sapphire has captivated humanity with its rich hues and enduring beauty. As the traditional birthstone for September, this gemstone embodies sincerity, truth, and faithfulness, qualities that have cemented its place in history, lore, and modern jewelry. While most readily recognized in its classic deep blue, the sapphire presents a remarkable spectrum of colors, each with its own unique appeal. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gem.
History and Lore
The association of sapphire with nobility and the divine stretches back to ancient civilizations. In ancient Greece and Rome, blue sapphires were believed to offer protection from harm and envy. Ancient Persians held the belief that the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, imbuing the sky with its characteristic blue color. Medieval Europeans attributed healing powers to the stone, believing it could cure plague boils and eye diseases, and even serve as an antidote to poison.
Throughout history, sapphire has been closely linked to religious figures. Clerics of the Middle Ages wore sapphires, associating the gem with Heaven. This connection to the elite extended beyond the religious sphere; sapphire adorned the robes of royalty, symbolizing high society and power. This association continues today, most famously exemplified by Princess Diana’s (and now Princess Kate’s) iconic 12-carat Ceylon sapphire engagement ring. The stone’s enduring presence in royal collections and significant historical artifacts underscores its long-held status as a gem of distinction.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire belongs to the corundum mineral family, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). Its vibrant colors arise from trace elements within the crystal structure, such as chromium, titanium, vanadium, iron, and magnesium. While blue is the most well-known color, sapphires can also be found in orange, purple, black, pink, yellow, and even exhibit color-changing properties. Ruby, the red variety of corundum, is closely related to sapphire.
Major sources of sapphire include Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Australia. Montana, USA, is also a notable source, producing sapphires of exceptional quality. The specific geological conditions required for sapphire formation – high pressure and temperature – are typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire consistently ranks among the most durable gemstones, registering a 9.0 on the Mohs hardness scale, second only to diamond. This exceptional hardness makes it highly resistant to scratching, abrasion, and damage from everyday wear. Sapphire is also resistant to heat, light, and most chemicals.
The following table summarizes 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 are typically cut into a variety of shapes, including oval, cushion, round, and emerald cuts, to maximize brilliance and color display. Carat weight, like all gemstones, is a measure of size, with one carat equaling 0.2 grams. The value of a sapphire is determined by its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, with deep, vivid blue sapphires generally commanding the highest prices.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with rich symbolism. It traditionally represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. Beyond these core attributes, sapphire is also associated with wisdom, loyalty, and divine favor.
In astrological traditions, particularly within Indian astrology, sapphire – referred to as “Neelam Stone” – is linked to the planet Saturn. Astrologers believe that wearing a blue sapphire can impact the wearer’s finances, potentially unlocking multiple sources of income. However, caution is advised when selecting and wearing sapphire for astrological purposes, as its powerful energy requires careful consideration of size, shape, and timing.
Sapphire is also believed to offer protection from harm, envy, and negative energies. This protective quality has been attributed to the stone for centuries, reinforcing its reputation as a talisman of good fortune and well-being.
Alternative September Birthstones
While sapphire is the traditional September birthstone, two alternative gemstones are also associated with this month: carnelian and lapis lazuli. Carnelian, a variety of chalcedony quartz, is typically a fiery red-orange color and was historically used for cameos. It symbolizes fertility, confidence, and abundance, and is believed to cleanse other stones. Carnelian registers a 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it less durable than sapphire.
Lapis lazuli, another alternative, is known for its deep royal blue color, often flecked with white calcite or golden pyrite. Ancient cultures associated lapis lazuli with spirituality and the gods, believing it to be a powerful stone. Its hardness ranges between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale, meaning it can be scratched with a sharp instrument but can also scratch glass.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. However, proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance and beauty. Warm, soapy water is generally safe for cleaning sapphires. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated stones. However, fracture-filled or dyed sapphires should only be cleaned with a damp cloth to avoid damaging the treatment. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, as these can dull the stone’s surface. Regular cleaning will help ensure that your sapphire continues to sparkle for generations.
Conclusion
Sapphire’s enduring appeal stems from its captivating beauty, remarkable durability, and rich historical and symbolic significance. As the September birthstone, it represents a timeless connection to royalty, wisdom, and faithfulness. Whether admired for its classic blue hue or its vibrant range of colors, sapphire remains a cherished gemstone, embodying both elegance and enduring strength. Its geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural lore combine to make it a truly exceptional and highly sought-after gem.