Sapphire, the birthstone for September, holds a prominent place in the world of gemstones, revered for its beauty, durability, and rich history. This captivating gem, a variety of the mineral corundum, has been prized for millennia, symbolizing fidelity, the soul, and celestial grace. While most commonly recognized for its vibrant blue hues, sapphire encompasses a rainbow of colors, each with its own unique appeal. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gemstone, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The association of specific gemstones with months of the year dates back to ancient times, with roots in biblical tradition. Many scholars trace the practice to the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus, which was adorned with twelve different gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. The first-century historian Josephus connected these stones to the twelve signs of the zodiac, initiating a custom where individuals would wear the stone corresponding to their birth month, believing it held heightened powers during that period.
The name “sapphire” originates from the Greek word “sappheiros,” and for centuries, blue sapphire has been the most popular and recognizable variety. Throughout history, sapphire has been linked to royalty and romance. Medieval Europeans attributed healing powers to the September birthstone, believing it could cure plague boils and diseases of the eye, and even act as an antidote to poison.
Notable sapphires have graced the collections of royalty and celebrities alike. The Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone originally from Myanmar (Burma), was acquired by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in 1934. More recently, the 12-carat blue sapphire engagement ring, first worn by Princess Diana and later given to Kate Middleton, has captured global attention.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of corundum, an aluminum oxide with the chemical formula Al2O3. The crystal structure is hexagonal, possessing four axes, three of equal length intersecting at 60-degree angles, and one of unequal length intersecting the others at a right angle. Ruby, the red variety of corundum, shares identical physical and optical properties with sapphire, differing only in color. Any corundum that is not red is classified as sapphire.
Historically significant sources of sapphire include Kashmir, a mountainous region in northern India on the Pakistan border, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka. Kashmir sapphires, particularly those with a “cornflower blue” hue, are considered among the most valuable due to their rarity. Significant quantities of sapphire have also been found in Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, and the United States (Montana), as well as other locations in Asia and Africa. Sri Lanka is a particularly rich source, yielding sapphires in a wide range of colors, including garnet, amethyst, aquamarine, moonstone, ruby, spinel, topaz, and zircon.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire’s exceptional durability is a key characteristic, scoring a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. This makes it an excellent choice for everyday wear, including engagement rings. Beyond blue, sapphires occur in a spectrum of colors, including pink, yellow, orange, green, peach, and violet. The most sought-after of these “fancy sapphires” is the Padparadscha sapphire, a rare pink-orange corundum resembling a tropical sunset.
While specific gemological data beyond hardness and chemical composition are not provided in the sources, it is understood that sapphire’s optical properties are identical to those of ruby, excluding color. The value of sapphire is significantly influenced by color, with cornflower blue sapphires from Kashmir commanding the highest prices due to their rarity and desirable hue.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with symbolic meaning. It is often associated with fidelity, the soul, and romance. The gem’s enduring appeal and association with royalty have further cemented its status as a symbol of power and prestige.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of sapphire jewelry is relatively straightforward due to the gemstone’s hardness. Sapphires can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. However, care should be taken with more delicate stones, such as pearls and opals, which require gentler cleaning methods using a soft, damp cloth and protection from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
Market Trends and Availability
Based on data analyzed, peridot is the most common birthstone in the majority of states, while sapphire is the most common in Hawaii. Ruby is the most common in eleven states, and sapphire and emerald each appear as the most common in one state. Sapphire ranks as the third most common birthstone overall, representing 8.67% of birthstone preferences.
Conclusion
Sapphire, the September birthstone, is a gemstone of enduring beauty, historical significance, and remarkable durability. From its ancient origins and association with royalty to its modern-day popularity in engagement rings, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its vibrant colors, exceptional hardness, and rich symbolism make it a treasured gem for generations to come.