For those born in September, the sapphire reigns as the traditional and modern birthstone, a gem steeped in history, symbolism, and captivating beauty. While most readily associated with shades of blue, the sapphire encompasses a remarkable spectrum of colors, making it a versatile and cherished gemstone. This article delves into the sapphire’s origins, geological formation, historical significance, gemological properties, and enduring cultural associations, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The association of gemstones with specific months is a relatively recent development, evolving from ancient beliefs linking gems to the zodiac and the twelve tribes of Israel. Early traditions, dating back to the 1st and 5th centuries CE, suggested that wearing all twelve gems throughout the year offered therapeutic benefits and talismanic protection. The practice of assigning a single gem to each birth month emerged between the 16th and 18th centuries, with the National Association of Jewelers formalizing a “modern” list in 1912.
Sapphires, however, boast a far longer and richer history. Throughout the Middle Ages, Christian clergy favored blue sapphires as symbols of heaven, reflecting the gem’s celestial hue. Historically, the stone was believed to protect loved ones from harm. The gem’s enduring appeal is evidenced by its presence in royal collections and significant historical artifacts. One notable example is the 422.99-carat Logan Sapphire, currently housed in the National Gem Collection at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This magnificent gem’s provenance traces back to Indian royalty, acquired by Sir Ellice Victor Sassoon from a maharajah before being purchased by Col. M. Robert Guggenheim and eventually donated to the Smithsonian in 1960, though remaining in the Guggenheim family’s possession until 1971.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires belong to the corundum family, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. Crucially, a gem is defined as sapphire if it is the non-red variety of corundum; red corundum is classified as ruby. Sapphires occur in a wide range of colors, encompassing nearly every hue except red. The sources do not specify the exact geological processes involved in sapphire formation, but the gem’s presence in ancient artifacts suggests it has been sourced for millennia. The Logan Sapphire’s history indicates India as a significant historical source, while the discovery of rich mines in Australia has increased availability in more recent times.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional hardness, making them highly durable and suitable for all types of jewelry. While the sources do not provide a specific Mohs hardness value, they do state that sapphire is an “exceptionally hard stone.” The gem’s color range is extensive, with blue being the most iconic. However, sapphires can also be found in yellow, orange, purple, and even colorless varieties. The sources do not detail the specific chemical impurities responsible for these colors.
The Logan Sapphire, a prime example of the gem’s quality, is described as a vibrant medium-blue. The sources do not provide details on clarity, cut, or carat weight beyond the Logan Sapphire’s 422.99 carats.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphires have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Traditionally, the stone has been associated with wisdom, purity, and faith. Ancient beliefs attributed protective qualities to sapphires, shielding wearers from harm. More recently, some associate sapphires with heightened intuition and pleasure, though these claims lack extensive historical corroboration. The sources indicate that the gem was once believed to offer good health, wealth, and happiness to its wearer.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for sapphires. However, given the gem’s exceptional hardness, it is reasonable to assume that it is relatively resistant to scratching. Further research beyond the provided sources would be necessary to provide detailed guidance on cleaning and maintaining sapphire jewelry.
Other Birthstones and Considerations
While sapphire is the primary birthstone for September, the sources also mention other gems associated with different months. Peridot is the modern birthstone for August, symbolizing strength and warding off evil. Opal, celebrated as the October birthstone, is believed to bring confidence and hope. Garnet, the January birthstone, is associated with good health, wealth, and happiness. The diversity of birthstone options allows individuals to choose a gem that resonates with their personal preferences and beliefs.
June’s Diverse Gems
June presents a particularly interesting case, with pearl historically serving as the birthstone, while alexandrite and moonstone are recognized as modern alternatives. Alexandrite, discovered in Russia in the 19th century, is notable for its color-changing properties, appearing green in daylight and purple-red under incandescent light. Pearls, organic gemstones formed within mollusks, have a long history of use in jewelry and are steeped in myth and legend.
April and May’s Classic Choices
April’s birthstone, the diamond, is renowned for its hardness and brilliance, symbolizing love, marriage, and courage. May’s emerald, a vibrant green beryl, has been associated with fertility, health, and faithfulness throughout history, and was a favorite gem of Cleopatra.
July’s Ruby and August’s Options
July is represented by the ruby, a red variety of corundum, prized for its rich color and durability. August offers a choice between peridot, sardonyx, and the more recently recognized spinel. Peridot, ranging in color from yellow-green to brown, was believed to ward off nightmares and evil. Sardonyx, a red and white variety of chalcedony, represents strength.
Conclusion
The sapphire, September’s birthstone, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its ancient origins and rich historical associations to its exceptional durability and captivating colors, the sapphire continues to inspire and enchant. Its symbolism of wisdom, purity, and faith resonates across cultures and generations, making it a cherished gem for those born in September and a prized possession for gem enthusiasts worldwide. The Logan Sapphire, a magnificent example of this gem, serves as a reminder of the sapphire’s regal past and enduring beauty.