Sapphire, universally recognized as the September birthstone, holds a prominent place in the world of gemstones, steeped in history, lore, and enduring beauty. For centuries, this captivating gem has adorned royalty, symbolized fidelity, and inspired beliefs in its protective and even curative powers. While most commonly associated with its rich blue hues, sapphire actually encompasses a spectrum of colors, with red corundum being classified as ruby. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gemstone, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is interwoven with tales of royalty, faith, and ancient beliefs. Throughout antiquity, sapphires were considered symbols of nobility, truth, and faithfulness. Ancient Greek and Roman civilizations believed the gem offered protection from harm and envy. Clerics of the Middle Ages valued sapphires for their association with Heaven, believing the stone’s deep blue mirrored the celestial realm. Ancient Persians even held the belief that the Earth rested upon a giant sapphire, responsible for the sky’s vibrant color.
These early perceptions extended beyond mere aesthetics; sapphires were thought to possess healing properties. Medieval Europeans believed the stone could cure plague boils and alleviate eye diseases, even serving as an antidote to poison. Sapphire jewelry, including rings, earrings, and necklaces, was commonly worn, not only for adornment but also for perceived protection and well-being.
The association with royalty continued through the ages. Before diamonds became the preferred choice for engagement rings, sapphires were frequently used by royal families. A notable example is Napoleon Bonaparte, who gifted his fiancée a sapphire engagement ring in 1796. More recently, Princess Diana’s iconic 12-carat blue Ceylon sapphire engagement ring, chosen in 1981, further cemented the gemstone’s regal status and challenged traditional royal jewelry practices by being accessible through a catalog. This decision allowed non-royals to potentially acquire the same jewels as the royal family.
Interestingly, the stone now known as sapphire was sometimes misidentified in ancient times. Lapis lazuli, a deep blue metamorphic rock, was often referred to as sapphire, particularly in historical texts like the Old Testament, where it is believed to be the stone referenced in the breastplate of the High Priest.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires belong to the corundum family, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. The presence of trace elements, specifically titanium and iron, is responsible for the characteristic blue color. The formation of sapphire requires specific geological conditions, notably the absence of silicone, a common element that inhibits its development.
Historically, lapis lazuli, an alternative September birthstone, was first employed for art and jewel making in the Afghan region around 6500 years ago, spreading its influence to Asia, the Middle East, and the Roman world. While specific sapphire mining locations are not extensively detailed in the provided sources, the mention of a “Ceylon sapphire” in Princess Diana’s ring suggests Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) as a significant source. The sources also mention the historical mining of lapis lazuli in Afghanistan, with Marco Polo documenting these mines as early as 1271.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional hardness, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale, making them highly durable and suitable for everyday wear. They are composed of aluminum and oxygen, with color variations arising from trace elements. While blue is the most common color, sapphires can also be found in violet, purple, green, pink, yellow, grey, black, and even clear varieties. Any corundum displaying a color other than blue (or red, which is ruby) is considered a “fancy color” sapphire.
The rarest and most prized fancy sapphire is the padparadscha, a pinkish-orange hue derived from the Sinhalese word for lotus flower. Sapphires can also exhibit a rare phenomenon known as color change, shifting between blue and purple depending on the light source.
Lapis lazuli, as an alternative September birthstone, is a metamorphic rock comprised of three minerals: lazurite, pyrite, and calcite. Lazurite is responsible for the stone’s deep blue color, and a rock must contain at least 25% lazurite to be classified as lapis lazuli. Pyrite creates speckles of yellow, while calcite adds white intrusions.
Here's a table summarizing key properties:
| Property | Sapphire | Lapis Lazuli |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃) | Lazurite, Pyrite, Calcite |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 | 5-6 |
| Color | Primarily Blue, various | Deep Blue |
| Luster | Vitreous | Vitreous to Waxy |
| Transparency | Transparent to Opaque | Opaque |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphires have been imbued with symbolic meaning. They represent sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. Ancient beliefs attributed protective qualities to the stone, shielding wearers from harm and facilitating communication with the divine. Sapphire rings were worn when consulting oracles, believed to increase the likelihood of receiving a prophecy.
Sapphires are also associated with significant life events, particularly 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries. The stone’s enduring beauty and symbolism make it a fitting representation of lasting commitment and love.
Lapis lazuli, as an alternative birthstone, is a symbol of wisdom and truth, revered by ancient cultures for its vivid color and perceived spiritual properties. It was used as jewelry, amulets, cosmetics, pigments, and even medicine. Cleopatra famously used powdered lapis lazuli as eyeshadow.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. However, like all gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its brilliance. Sapphires can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone’s surface. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated sapphires, but caution should be exercised with stones that have been fracture-filled or heat-treated.
Lapis lazuli, being a softer stone, requires more delicate care. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone’s surface and affect its color.
Conclusion
Sapphire remains a captivating gemstone, celebrated for its beauty, durability, and rich history. From its ancient associations with royalty and divine communication to its modern role as a symbol of fidelity and lasting love, the September birthstone continues to inspire and enchant. Whether admired for its classic blue hues or its vibrant fancy colors, sapphire’s enduring appeal ensures its place as one of the world’s most treasured gemstones. The alternative birthstone, lapis lazuli, offers a similarly rich history and symbolic depth, providing a compelling alternative for those seeking a connection to ancient traditions and celestial beauty.