Sapphire, most recognized for its captivating blue hues, holds the esteemed position as the primary birthstone for September. Revered for millennia, this gemstone symbolizes sincerity, truth, and nobility, and boasts a rich history intertwined with royalty, religion, and folklore. While blue is the most iconic color, sapphires actually occur in a spectrum of shades, including orange, purple, pink, yellow, and even black. This article delves into the fascinating world of sapphire, exploring its geological origins, historical significance, gemological properties, and enduring appeal.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire stretches back centuries, with evidence of its use and admiration found in ancient civilizations. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed blue sapphires offered protection from harm and envy. Within the elite circles of these societies, the gemstone was a symbol of status and power. During the Middle Ages, sapphires held a special place within the clergy, representing Heaven and embodying spiritual wisdom. Medieval Europeans attributed healing properties to the stone, believing it could cure plague boils and alleviate eye ailments, even serving as an antidote to poison.
Ancient Persian lore held a particularly grand view of sapphire, positing that the earth rested upon a colossal sapphire, which was responsible for the blue color of the sky. This belief underscores the deep connection between the gemstone and the celestial realm. The stone’s association with the divine continued through various cultures; Buddhists believed sapphires promoted inner peace, and in Islamic tradition, sapphires adorned the seven heavens.
The sapphire’s association with royalty is particularly notable. Legend even suggests the Ten Commandments were inscribed on tablets of sapphire, highlighting its perceived strength and enduring nature. More recently, the sapphire has become synonymous with romantic commitment, exemplified by the 12-carat Ceylon sapphire featured in Princess Diana’s engagement ring, now worn by Princess Kate Middleton.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire belongs to the mineral corundum, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. Its vibrant colors arise from trace elements within the crystal structure. Chromium, titanium, vanadium, iron, and magnesium contribute to the diverse range of sapphire hues. The formation of sapphire requires specific geological conditions, typically occurring in metamorphic and igneous rocks.
While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, the term “Ceylon sapphire” references sapphires originating from Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon), a historically significant source known for producing high-quality blue sapphires. The sources do not provide a comprehensive list of mining locations.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire is renowned for its exceptional durability, registering a 9.0 on the Mohs hardness scale – second only to diamond. This hardness makes it highly resistant to scratching, abrasion, and damage from daily wear, making it an ideal choice for jewelry intended for everyday use. Sapphires are also resistant to heat, light, and chemical corrosion.
The chemical composition of sapphire is aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). While commonly associated with blue, sapphires exhibit a wide range of colors. The Greek word “sappheiros,” meaning blue stone, is the origin of the gem’s name, but the sources emphasize that sapphires are not exclusively blue. They can be found in orange, purple, black, pink, yellow, and even colorless varieties.
Sapphires are evaluated using the “4Cs” – color, clarity, cut, and carat weight – similar to diamonds. Color is the most important factor influencing a sapphire’s value, with vivid, saturated blue hues being the most prized. Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions, while cut enhances the gemstone’s brilliance and fire. Carat weight measures the gemstone’s size.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with profound symbolism. It traditionally represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. These symbolic associations have contributed to its enduring popularity as a gemstone for engagement rings and other significant jewelry pieces.
Beyond its symbolic meaning, sapphire has been attributed with metaphysical properties. Some believe it promotes wisdom, protects against negative energies, and fosters inner peace. Ancient cultures associated the stone with spirituality and divine connection, viewing it as a conduit to higher realms of consciousness. Carnelian, an alternative September birthstone, is associated with fertility, confidence, and abundance, and is believed to welcome good fortune when placed near an entrance. Lapis Lazuli, another alternative, is a symbol of wisdom and truth, and is linked to spirituality and the cosmos.
Alternative September Birthstones
While sapphire is the traditional September birthstone, two alternatives offer unique characteristics and symbolism. Carnelian, a fiery red-orange gemstone, is believed to promote confidence and abundance. It is a variety of chalcedony, a form of quartz, and is rated a 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it less durable than sapphire. Its name derives from the Latin word “carneus,” meaning flesh-like.
Lapis Lazuli, a deep blue metamorphic rock, is another alternative. It is composed of lazurite, pyrite, and calcite, with lazurite responsible for its characteristic blue color. A rock must contain at least 25% blue lazurite to be classified as Lapis Lazuli. Lapis Lazuli has been valued for centuries for its association with spirituality and power, and its appearance often evokes images of the cosmos. It has a hardness rating of between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. Regular cleaning can be performed with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these may damage the stone or its setting. Sapphire is durable enough for everyday wear, but it is still advisable to remove jewelry containing sapphires during strenuous activities to prevent scratches or damage.
Conclusion
Sapphire remains a captivating and highly sought-after gemstone, embodying a rich history, profound symbolism, and exceptional beauty. As the September birthstone, it offers a timeless and elegant choice for those born in this month. From its ancient associations with royalty and spirituality to its modern appeal in engagement rings and fine jewelry, sapphire continues to enchant and inspire. Its durability, vibrant colors, and enduring symbolism ensure its place as a treasured gemstone for generations to come.