September boasts a remarkable array of eleven recognized birthstones, a distinction unparalleled by any other month. While sapphire, particularly in its classic blue hue, remains the most widely recognized September birthstone, a rich tapestry of other gems – moonstone, peridot, zircon, agate, sardonyx, lapis lazuli, jasper, citrine, carnelian, and even diamond’s close relative, zircon – also claim association with this transitional month. This article will explore the history, properties, and symbolism of these eleven gemstones, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The association of sapphire with September dates back centuries. Ancient civilizations, including those of Greece and Rome, revered blue sapphires, believing they offered protection from harm and envy. Medieval Europeans attributed healing powers to the stone, claiming it could cure plague boils and eye diseases, and even serve as an antidote to poison. Clergy of the Middle Ages wore sapphires as a symbol of Heaven, reflecting the gem’s celestial blue color. Ancient Persian lore even suggested the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, responsible for the sky’s azure hue.
Beyond sapphire, other September birthstones carry their own historical weight. Lapis lazuli, mined as early as 700 BC in Afghanistan, was linked to intuition and truth. The belief that the Ten Commandments were inscribed on sapphire tablets further underscores the gem’s enduring significance. Zircon, appearing in the Hindu calendar as a September birthstone, is considered one of the oldest minerals on Earth.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources detail that sapphires belong to the corundum family, which also includes ruby. While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, the gems are known to occur in a rainbow of colors, with blue being the most common and readily available.
Other September birthstones originate from diverse geological settings. Lapis lazuli is specifically noted as being mined in Afghanistan since 700 BC. Agate is found within volcanic rock, while sardonyx is a combination of sard and onyx, often displaying layered patterns indicative of sedimentary rock formation. Jasper, another chalcedony variety, also exhibits intricate patterns. Citrine’s origins are not explicitly stated, but its availability suggests relatively common formation conditions.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire, chemically a variety of corundum, is remarkably durable, registering a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness – just below diamond’s 10. This hardness contributes to its suitability for everyday wear. Sapphires exhibit a hexagonal crystal structure and come in a wide spectrum of colors, excluding red, which is classified as ruby. Color evaluation in sapphires considers hue, tone, and saturation. “Fancy colored” sapphires are specifically identified by their hue, such as “purple sapphire” or “green sapphire.”
Other September birthstones possess distinct properties. Peridot, containing chromium, nickel, and iron, typically displays a bright green color, sometimes with olive or brown undertones. Zircon exhibits a vitreous to adamantine luster and comes in nearly any color imaginable, with blue being a popular choice. Moonstone is known for its unique Schiller effect, a glowing appearance reminiscent of moonlight, and can be found in shades of blue, pink, black, peach, and white.
Here's a table summarizing the hardness of some of the September birthstones mentioned:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Sapphire | 9 |
| Zircon | 7 |
| Citrine | 7 |
| Peridot | Not specified in sources |
| Agate | Not specified in sources |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphire has long been associated with sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. It is considered a stone of wisdom, virtue, and good fortune. Moonstone is believed to lower stress, calm the mind, sharpen intuition, and inspire creativity. Lapis lazuli is linked to the third eye chakra and is considered a stone of intuition and truth.
Several other September birthstones are attributed with specific metaphysical properties. Peridot is the stone of compassion, promoting emotional balance, cheer, and peace. Zircon is said to provide guidance and grounding. Agate is believed to enhance concentration, eliminate negativity, and balance one’s aura. Sardonyx is thought to aid in healing after illness and enhance the five senses. Jasper is known as the “supreme nurturer,” promoting calm and balancing Yin and Yang energies. Citrine is believed to attract wealth and success, encouraging self-expression. Carnelian is thought to balance the five senses and awaken a person to nature.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is relatively durable and suitable for all types of jewelry. However, like all gemstones, it benefits from careful handling and cleaning. The sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions for all the September birthstones, but given the varying hardness levels, gentle cleaning methods are recommended.
Zircon, with a Mohs hardness of 7, is also fairly durable but should be protected from harsh impacts. Moonstone, being a softer gem, requires particularly gentle care to avoid scratches. The porous nature of carnelian means it is often treated with dye, requiring extra caution during cleaning.
The Zodiac and Sun Sign Associations
The sources highlight a distinction between calendar-based and zodiac-based September birthstones. While sapphire is the primary birthstone for the entire month, certain gems are specifically associated with the zodiac signs Virgo and Libra. Peridot and zircon are linked to Libra, while moonstone, sardonyx, lapis lazuli, jasper, citrine, and carnelian are associated with Virgo. This dual system provides a wider range of options for those seeking a birthstone aligned with their astrological sign.
A Plethora of Choices
The sheer number of birthstones associated with September – eleven in total – offers a remarkable range of choices for those born in this month. From the classic blue sapphire to the more esoteric options like sardonyx and lapis lazuli, each gem carries its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. This abundance reflects the transitional nature of September, bridging the gap between summer and fall, and offering a gemstone to suit every taste and preference.
Conclusion
September’s eleven birthstones represent a fascinating intersection of history, geology, and cultural belief. While sapphire remains the most iconic September gem, the inclusion of moonstone, peridot, zircon, agate, sardonyx, lapis lazuli, jasper, citrine, carnelian, and other stones provides a diverse and enriching selection for those seeking a meaningful connection to their birth month. These gems, each with its unique properties and symbolism, continue to captivate and inspire, embodying the beauty and mystery of the natural world.