Sapphire, traditionally recognized as the birthstone for September, holds a prominent place in the world of gemstones, celebrated for its rich history, enduring beauty, and remarkable durability. For centuries, this captivating gem has adorned royalty, inspired folklore, and symbolized virtues such as sincerity, truth, and faithfulness. While most commonly known for its captivating blue hues, sapphire encompasses a spectrum of colors, making it a versatile and highly sought-after gemstone. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable birthstone.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is deeply interwoven with tales of royalty, religion, and healing. Ancient civilizations held sapphire in high esteem, believing it offered protection from harm and envy. In ancient Greece, sapphires were thought to symbolize heaven, while some believed the Earth rested upon a giant sapphire, imbuing the sky with its characteristic blue color. Ancient Persians shared this belief, attributing the sky’s color to a massive sapphire supporting the world.
Throughout history, sapphire has been associated with nobility and the elite. It frequently appeared in family heirlooms, extravagant décor, and significant jewelry pieces. Clerics of the Middle Ages valued sapphire for its symbolic connection to Heaven, often incorporating it into their robes. Medieval Europeans attributed healing properties to the stone, believing it could cure plague boils and treat eye diseases, and even act as an antidote to poison.
More recently, sapphire has continued to represent romance and commitment. The engagement ring of Princess Diana, featuring a 12-carat Ceylon sapphire, remains an iconic example of the gem’s enduring appeal and association with lasting love, now worn by Princess Kate Middleton.
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 – is a result of its tightly bonded crystalline structure. The presence of trace elements, such as chromium, titanium, vanadium, iron, and magnesium, gives rise to the diverse range of sapphire colors.
While blue is the most recognized color, sapphires can also be found in shades of orange, purple, black, pink, yellow, and even exhibit color-changing properties. Red corundum is classified as ruby, a distinct gemstone within the same mineral family.
Sapphires are sourced from various locations around the globe. Major sources include Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Australia. Montana, USA, is also a notable source of sapphires, particularly those with unique color variations.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire’s gemological properties contribute to its desirability and value.
| 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) |
The most prized sapphires exhibit a velvety blue or violet hue, commanding the highest price per carat. Sapphire’s durability, stemming from its high hardness and resistance to heat, light, and chemicals, makes it suitable for everyday wear.
Alternative September Birthstones
While sapphire is the primary birthstone for September, several other gems have historically been associated with this month. Lapis Lazuli, once a treasure of ancient royalty, was used to decorate the sarcophagus of King Tut and adorn palaces. It is believed to promote mental clarity and serenity. Peridot, listed on ancient calendars as a September birthstone, is a stone of positive energy thought to open the heart chakra. Sardonyx and agate were also considered September birthstones in Rome, Italy, and ancient Tibet, respectively, offering protective and stabilizing energies. Blue zircon, featured in ancient Hindu calendars, was believed to be a leaf from a wish-fulfilling tree, promoting peace and inner joy.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history and across cultures, sapphire has been imbued with symbolic meaning. It represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. Sapphires are believed to stimulate the throat chakra and the third eye, enhancing communication, intuition, and spiritual insight. Some believe sapphires unlock prophecies and promote a deeper understanding of the physical and spiritual worlds.
Lapis Lazuli, an alternative September birthstone, is connected to the stars and heavens, promoting mental clarity and self-mastery. Peridot is associated with positive energy and removing blockages in life, while carnelian radiates optimism and confidence.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of a sapphire requires proper care. 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. Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is resistant to scratching and can be worn regularly without significant risk of damage.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. Its rich history, captivating colors, exceptional durability, and symbolic significance have cemented its place as a treasured gem for millennia. As the birthstone for September, sapphire continues to inspire and enchant, representing not only beauty but also wisdom, faithfulness, and the pursuit of truth. Its versatility and timeless appeal ensure that sapphire will remain a cherished gemstone for generations to come.