The September Birthstone: Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli – A Celebration of Blue and Beyond

September’s birthstone tradition is unique in that it includes two gemstones: blue sapphire and lapis lazuli. Both stones share a striking deep blue coloration that has captivated cultures for millennia. While blue sapphire holds the primary position as the September birthstone, lapis lazuli is its noble alternative, each with rich histories, symbolic meanings, and distinct geological origins. This article explores the gemological properties, cultural significance, and practical care of these two remarkable stones, drawing on expert sources to provide a comprehensive overview of their role in birthstone lore and modern gemology.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Ancient Lore and Symbolism

The September birthstone tradition is steeped in ancient beliefs and symbolic associations. Sapphire, especially in its blue form, has long been revered as a stone of royalty, wisdom, and divine favor. In ancient Greece and Rome, sapphire was believed to offer protection from harm and envy. The term “sapphire” itself is derived from the Greek word sappheiros, which means “blue” or “precious stone.” Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder noted that the sapphire was thought to represent the heavens, a belief that carried into medieval Europe.

During the Middle Ages, sapphire was worn by clergy to symbolize heavenly grace and purity. It was often used in religious garments and ecclesiastical jewelry. The stone was also associated with the celestial realm, and medieval Europeans believed that sapphires could cure diseases of the eyes and serve as an antidote to poison.

Lapis lazuli, the alternative September birthstone, shares a similarly storied past. This deep blue metamorphic rock, composed of lazurite, pyrite, and calcite, has been used in art and adornment for over 6,000 years. The ancient Egyptians used lapis lazuli in jewelry and ceremonial objects, and it was highly prized by pharaohs and priests. The most famous artifact containing lapis lazuli is the Death Mask of Tutankhamun, where it was used to inlay the eyes and adorn the headdress.

In the East, lapis lazuli was also a material of great importance. It was used in Buddhist art and sacred texts, and it was believed to bring wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. In the modern era, lapis lazuli has been linked to the chakra system, particularly the third eye chakra, which governs intuition and perception.

The Role of Sapphire in Royalty and Romance

Sapphire has long been a favorite of royalty and the aristocracy. Historical records show that sapphires were often set into crown jewels and royal regalia, symbolizing power, nobility, and divine right. In the 19th century, the sapphire became a popular choice for engagement rings, particularly among the British royal family. The most famous example is the sapphire engagement ring of Prince William, later King William IV, and the sapphire ring worn by Princess Diana, which was famously passed on to Kate Middleton.

The association of sapphire with fidelity and enduring love made it a natural choice for engagement and wedding rings. In the 20th century, the sapphire became a symbol of modern romance, blending tradition with contemporary elegance. Its use in high-profile royal engagements has only reinforced its status as a gemstone of love and devotion.

Geological Formation and Sources

The Composition and Origin of Sapphires

Sapphires belong to the corundum family, a mineral composed primarily of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). Corundum is naturally colorless, but the presence of trace elements introduces a range of colors. In the case of blue sapphires, the color is primarily due to iron and titanium, which interact within the crystal lattice to produce the characteristic blue hue.

Sapphires are formed under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust, typically in metamorphic or igneous rock formations. They are often found in association with magmatic intrusions or high-grade metamorphic rocks, where the conditions are suitable for the formation of corundum.

The hardness of sapphires is one of their defining characteristics. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, sapphires rank a 9, making them one of the hardest natural gemstones, second only to diamonds. This high hardness contributes to their durability and resistance to scratches, making them ideal for use in jewelry that is worn daily.

Where Sapphires Are Found

Sapphires are found in various parts of the world, with the most notable sources including:

Afghanistan and Pakistan: These regions have been traditional sources of sapphires for thousands of years. The Kabul sapphires from Afghanistan are particularly famous for their deep blue color and exceptional clarity.
Sri Lanka: Known as the “Sapphire Island,” Sri Lanka is one of the most important modern sources of sapphires. The stones from Sri Lanka are typically lighter in color and more transparent, with a vibrant blue that is highly sought after.
Madagascar: This island nation has emerged as a major source of sapphires in recent decades. The Madagascar sapphires often have a deep, vivid blue, and they are frequently found in alluvial deposits, which are easier to mine than primary rock formations.
Australia: Australia is known for producing pale to medium blue sapphires, as well as fancy color sapphires in shades of yellow, pink, and green. The sapphires from Queensland and Western Australia are particularly notable.
Burmese (Myanmar) Sapphires: Burmese sapphires, especially those from the Mogok region, are considered some of the finest in the world. They are known for their deep, velvety blue color and excellent clarity.

The Composition and Origin of Lapis Lazuli

Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed mainly of lazurite, a deep blue mineral, along with pyrite (which adds golden flecks) and calcite (which can appear as white veins). The presence of these components gives lapis lazuli its striking visual appeal and makes it distinct from true gemstones, which are typically crystalline in structure.

Lapis lazuli forms under high-pressure, low-temperature conditions, typically in contact metamorphic zones where limestone comes into contact with igneous rock. The most famous source of lapis lazuli is Afghanistan, where it has been mined for over 6,000 years. The Badakhshan region in northern Afghanistan is the most renowned source, producing stones with rich blue color and minimal white calcite.

Other notable sources of lapis lazuli include:

Russia: The Lake Baikal region has been an important source of lapis lazuli for centuries. The stones from Russia are often of lower quality than those from Afghanistan, with more calcite inclusions.
Argentina: The Cerro de los Sapos in Argentina is a major source of lapis lazuli. The stones from this region are often lighter in color and contain more white calcite than the Afghan stones.
Chile and Canada: These countries also produce lapis lazuli, though in smaller quantities. The quality of the stones from these regions varies, with some exhibiting excellent color and minimal inclusions.

Gemological Properties

Sapphire: The Royal Gemstone

Sapphires are among the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. Their exceptional hardness (9 on the Mohs scale) makes them ideal for use in rings, necklaces, and bracelets, as they are resistant to scratches and wear. However, despite their hardness, sapphires can be chipped or cracked if struck with sufficient force, especially along their cleavage planes.

The color of sapphires is one of their most distinguishing features. While blue is the most traditional and widely recognized color, sapphires can occur in a wide range of colors, including pink, yellow, green, purple, and even colorless. These are known as fancy sapphires, and their value depends on the rarity, intensity, and purity of the color.

The clarity of sapphires can vary from very clear to heavily included, with inclusions that are often visible to the naked eye. Some inclusions are considered characteristic of natural sapphires, while others may affect the stone’s durability or appearance. Sapphires with high clarity and vibrant color are the most valuable and are often used in high-end jewelry.

The cut of a sapphire can also impact its beauty and value. The most common cuts include emerald, oval, round, and cushion, each of which enhances the stone’s color and brilliance in different ways. Hearts and arrows cuts are also used for sapphires, especially in engagement rings, to create a symmetrical and visually appealing appearance.

Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of Wisdom

Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock, not a true gemstone in the crystalline sense, but it is still highly valued in jewelry and decorative arts. Unlike sapphires, lapis lazuli is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it more susceptible to scratches and damage.

The color of lapis lazuli is due to the presence of lazurite, a mineral that gives the stone its deep blue hue. The golden flecks of pyrite and white calcite veins are also characteristic features of lapis lazuli and are often considered aesthetically pleasing rather than flaws.

Lapis lazuli is typically polished to a smooth finish and is used in jewelry, sculptures, and inlays. It is often carved into cameos, pendants, and beads, and it is particularly popular in artisanal and handmade jewelry. Due to its softer composition, lapis lazuli is best suited for jewelry that is not worn daily, such as necklaces and earrings, rather than rings or bracelets.

The value of lapis lazuli depends on several factors, including the intensity of the blue color, the presence of golden pyrite, and the amount of white calcite. Stones with deep blue color and minimal white calcite are the most valuable, while those with excessive calcite or dull color are less desirable.

Metaphysical and Symbolic Beliefs

Sapphire: The Stone of Truth and Nobility

Sapphires have long been associated with truth, sincerity, and nobility. In ancient times, they were believed to protect the wearer from harm and to enhance wisdom and clarity of thought. Medieval Europeans believed that sapphires could cure eye diseases and serve as antidotes to poison, and they were often used in healing remedies and protective amulets.

In the modern era, sapphires are still considered stones of protection and purity, and they are often used in jewelry that is intended to promote inner peace and spiritual growth. They are also believed to enhance intuition and encourage honesty and self-expression.

Sapphires are also associated with the third eye chakra, which is the center of intuition and perception. Wearing a sapphire is believed to enhance one’s ability to see beyond the physical world and to access higher states of consciousness.

Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of Intuition and Creativity

Lapis lazuli is known as the stone of wisdom and intuition, and it has been used in spiritual and artistic practices for thousands of years. It is believed to enhance creativity, stimulate intellectual growth, and promote emotional balance. It is also associated with the third eye chakra, and it is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance insight and intuition.

Lapis lazuli is also believed to promote inner harmony and emotional healing, and it is often used in jewelry and decorative objects to create a calming and uplifting environment. It is particularly popular among artists, writers, and musicians, who believe that it enhances creativity and inspiration.

In some cultures, lapis lazuli is also believed to protect against negative energy and psychic attacks, and it is used in protective amulets and talismans. It is also associated with youth and vitality, and it is believed to enhance one’s appearance and charm.

Care and Maintenance

Caring for Sapphire

Sapphires are very durable gemstones, but they still require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Here are some tips for caring for sapphires:

Avoid harsh chemicals: Sapphires should not be exposed to ammonia, bleach, or acid-based cleaners, as these can damage the stone or the metal setting.
Clean with mild soap and warm water: The best way to clean a sapphire is to soak it in a solution of mild soap and warm water, then gently scrub it with a soft-bristled brush.
Avoid extreme heat: While sapphires are heat-resistant, they should not be exposed to sudden temperature changes, as this can cause thermal shock and damage.
Store separately: Sapphires should be stored separately from other gemstones, especially softer stones like lapis lazuli, to prevent scratching.
Avoid impact: Even though sapphires are very hard, they can still be chipped or cracked if struck with sufficient force, especially along cleavage planes.

Caring for Lapis Lazuli

Lapis lazuli is softer than sapphire, so it requires more careful handling and cleaning. Here are some tips for caring for lapis lazuli:

Avoid harsh chemicals: Lapis lazuli is especially sensitive to chemicals, so it should not be exposed to ammonia, bleach, or acid-based cleaners, as these can damage the stone or the metal setting.
Clean with mild soap and warm water: The best way to clean lapis lazuli is to soak it in a solution of mild soap and warm water, then gently scrub it with a soft-bristled brush.
Avoid heat: Lapis lazuli is not heat-resistant, so it should not be exposed to high temperatures, as this can cause cracking or discoloration.
Store separately: Lapis lazuli should be stored separately from other gemstones, especially harder stones like sapphires, to prevent scratching.
Avoid impact: Lapis lazuli is relatively soft, so it can be easily chipped or cracked if struck with sufficient force.

Conclusion

The September birthstone tradition, featuring both blue sapphire and lapis lazuli, offers a fascinating glimpse into the geological, historical, and cultural significance of these two remarkable gemstones. Sapphires, with their deep blue color and exceptional hardness, have long been symbols of royalty, wisdom, and divine favor. Lapis lazuli, with its rich blue color and golden flecks, has been used in art, jewelry, and spiritual practices for thousands of years.

Both gemstones have rich histories and symbolic meanings, and they continue to be cherished by gemstone collectors, jewelry enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers. Whether worn as jewelry, talismans, or decorative objects, these stones offer a beautiful and meaningful connection to the past and a symbol of enduring value and beauty.

For those born in September, the sapphire and lapis lazuli are not just personal symbols of identity, but also testaments to the enduring power of gemstones to inspire, protect, and transform.