Sapphire, a gemstone celebrated for its deep blue hue, historical significance, and enduring cultural appeal, is the birthstone for September. While recognized as the official birthstone for the entire month, its role as the specific birthstone for September 18th carries unique resonance, particularly in its symbolic associations and rich lore. Revered for its hardness and brilliance, sapphire has long been connected to truth, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of this September birthstone, exploring its geological formation, historical use across cultures, gemological properties, and its place in jewelry and metaphysical traditions.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is long and illustrious, spanning diverse cultures and civilizations. Ancient Greeks believed sapphires symbolized the heavens, often adorning their oracles with the precious stone. Similarly, ancient Persians thought the earth rested on a giant sapphire, whose reflection painted the sky blue. These early civilizations attributed protective qualities to the gem, believing it shielded owners from harm and envy.
Medieval Europeans also held sapphire in high regard, associating it with Heaven and believing it possessed healing powers. It was reputed to cure plague boils and diseases of the eye, and even serve as an antidote to poison. For countless centuries, sapphire has adorned royalty and the robes of the clergy, symbolizing sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. The elite of ancient Greece and Rome believed blue sapphires protected their owners from harm and envy. Clerics of the Middle Ages wore sapphires because they symbolized Heaven.
The origin of the word ‘sapphire’ itself comes from the Latin sapphirus and Greek sappheiros, both meaning ‘blue’ or ‘precious stone’. This etymological connection underscores the long-held association of sapphire with beauty and value. Beyond its historical use, sapphire continues to be a meaningful gift, traditionally given to celebrate the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries, with Star Sapphire reserved for the 65th.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire belongs to the corundum mineral family, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). Its remarkable hardness, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale – second only to diamond – contributes to its durability and suitability for jewelry. While typically known for its blue variety, sapphire actually occurs in a rainbow of colors, including pink, yellow, green, violet, and even black, with the exception of red, which is classified as ruby.
Major sources of sapphire include Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Australia. Notably, sapphires are also mined in Montana, USA. The specific geological conditions required for sapphire formation – high pressure and temperature – result in its presence in metamorphic and igneous rocks. The color of sapphire is determined by trace elements within the corundum structure; for example, iron and titanium contribute to the blue hues.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire’s defining characteristic is its hardness, making it exceptionally resistant to scratching and abrasion. This durability, combined with its brilliance, makes it ideal for everyday wear. The classic color associated with September’s birthstone is a deep “royal” blue, though the range of hues is quite broad.
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 are evaluated based on the “Four Cs”: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Color is the most important factor, with deep, saturated blues commanding the highest prices. Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions, though some inclusions can be tolerated. Cut enhances the gem’s brilliance and sparkle, while carat weight determines its size.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with profound symbolism. It is associated with truth, sincerity, constancy, and purity of the soul. People born in September are often described as tolerant, understanding, and open-minded, seeking perfection and balance in their lives. Astrologers recommend wearing sapphire, or other September gemstones like Lapis Lazuli and Iolite, to bring luck and unlock one’s full potential.
Sapphire is believed to promote wisdom, intuition, and fidelity. Its deep blue color is often linked to the heavens and spiritual enlightenment. In addition to sapphire, Lapis Lazuli, with its deep blue color and gold flecks, is an alternative birthstone for September, symbolizing truth and creativity. Iolite, a violet-blue gemstone, is also associated with September, representing clarity and calm.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is a relatively durable gemstone. However, it is still susceptible to damage from sharp blows and abrasive materials. To maintain its brilliance, sapphire jewelry should be cleaned regularly with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone. It is also advisable to store sapphire jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as a testament to enduring beauty and timeless significance. From its ancient origins as a symbol of royalty and protection to its modern role as a cherished birthstone and exquisite jewelry piece, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its remarkable hardness, vibrant colors, and rich history make it a truly exceptional gemstone, embodying truth, wisdom, and nobility. As the birthstone for September, sapphire offers a meaningful connection to those born under its influence, representing a legacy of beauty and enduring value.