The sapphire, celebrated as the birthstone of September, is a gemstone steeped in history, symbolism, and breathtaking beauty. Primarily known for its captivating shades of blue, the sapphire encompasses a spectrum of colors, excluding red, which is reserved for the ruby. This article delves into the fascinating world of sapphires, exploring their geological origins, historical significance, gemological properties, and enduring allure.
History and Lore
The story of the sapphire stretches back centuries, with the name itself originating from the Greek word sappheiros, though it’s believed this term originally referred to lapis lazuli. Throughout history, sapphires have been associated with royalty, holiness, and protection. Medieval societies linked the stone to heaven, making it a popular choice for ecclesiastical rings. This association with nobility is perhaps most famously exemplified by the 18-carat oval blue sapphire adorning the engagement ring of Princess Diana, now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Deep blue sapphires have long been connected to royalty, so much so that the color “royal blue” was coined in their honor. Ancient cultures attributed various powers to the sapphire, believing it offered protection from harm and negative energies. The gemstone’s enduring appeal is evident in its continued use in significant jewelry pieces and its status as a cherished birthstone.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, an aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) in crystalline form. The presence of trace elements, specifically titanium and iron, is responsible for sapphire’s characteristic blue hues. The intensity of the blue color is directly related to the amount of titanium present – more titanium results in a deeper, more saturated blue. However, sapphires aren’t limited to blue; they can also appear in violet, green, yellow, orange, pink, and purple shades, known as “fancy sapphires.” Unique “parti-colored” sapphires exhibit combinations of these colors, while some even display color change depending on the light source, appearing blue in daylight or fluorescent light and purple under incandescent light. Gray, black, and brown sapphires also exist.
While specific mining locations aren’t detailed in the provided sources, the text indicates a historical presence in Egypt dating back to 1500 BC, and mentions Brazil as a source for aquamarine, a related beryl. The crafting of bespoke rings is noted as occurring in Australia.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional hardness, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale, making them highly durable and suitable for everyday wear. This hardness is second only to diamonds. The gemstone’s chemical composition is aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), with color variations arising from trace element inclusions.
The sources highlight the variety in sapphire appearance. While blue is the most recognized color, sapphires encompass a wide range of hues. They can be found in round shapes, as seen in a 4mm round sapphire featured in a 10K white gold ring, weighing 0.40 carats. Diamond accents are often paired with sapphires, with a common stone weight of 0.05 carats total weight.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, sapphires hold significant symbolic meaning. They are considered highly spiritual gemstones, believed to offer protection from harm and negative energies. Historically, sapphires were associated with safe voyages, offering protection to sailors. The stone is also linked to serenity and purity, and has been a symbol of riches and wealth throughout history.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their exceptional hardness, sapphires are relatively easy to care for. They can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. However, rings with eternity designs or stone settings may not be resizable, so professional sizing is recommended before purchase. It’s important to ensure a correct ring size, as adjustments after production may incur fees, and incorrect orders may be subject to restocking charges.
Sapphire Variations and Alternatives
The sources also briefly mention other gemstones related to September and other months. Opal, with its unique iridescence, is noted as a birthstone for October, while topaz, associated with wealth, is the birthstone for November. Zircon, prized for its brilliance, is the birthstone for December. Garnet, amethyst, aquamarine, emerald, and diamond are also mentioned as birthstones for other months, each with its own unique history and symbolism.
Modern Sapphire Jewelry
Today, sapphires continue to be a popular choice for jewelry, particularly engagement rings. The availability of lab-grown sapphires offers an ethical and attainable alternative to natural stones. Bespoke and custom designs are increasingly popular, allowing individuals to create unique pieces tailored to their preferences. Retailers offer various payment plans, including Afterpay, ZipPay, Humm, and PayIn4, making fine jewelry more accessible.
Conclusion
The sapphire, September’s birthstone, is a gemstone of enduring beauty, rich history, and profound symbolism. From its ancient associations with royalty and holiness to its modern appeal in engagement rings and bespoke jewelry, the sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its exceptional hardness, diverse color range, and perceived protective qualities make it a truly remarkable and cherished gemstone.