For millennia, the sapphire has captivated humanity with its rich color and enduring beauty. As the recognized birthstone for September, this gem embodies sincerity, faithfulness, and nobility, qualities that have cemented its place in history, mythology, and modern jewelry. While most readily associated with its classic blue hue, the sapphire exists in a remarkable spectrum of colors, each with its own unique appeal. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of the September birthstone, exploring its enduring legacy as a treasured gemstone.
History and Lore
The history of the sapphire is deeply interwoven with tales of royalty, religion, and healing. Ancient civilizations, including those of Greece and Rome, revered blue sapphires, believing they offered protection from harm and envy. These elites adorned themselves with the gem, not merely for its aesthetic appeal, but for the perceived safeguarding properties it possessed. In the Middle Ages, sapphire held a sacred place within the clergy, symbolizing Heaven and often incorporated into religious garments and artifacts.
Ancient Persian beliefs took this reverence a step further, positing that the very earth rested upon a colossal sapphire, responsible for the blue color of the sky. This cosmological connection highlights the profound impact the gem had on ancient worldviews. Beyond its symbolic value, the sapphire was also attributed with medicinal powers. Medieval Europeans believed it could cure plague boils, alleviate eye ailments, and even serve as an antidote to poison.
Throughout history, sapphires have been associated with significant events and figures. Legends suggest the Ten Commandments were inscribed on tablets of sapphire, a testament to the gem’s perceived strength and permanence. More recently, the sapphire has become synonymous with royal romance, most notably through the iconic engagement ring first worn by Princess Diana and now worn by Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires belong to the corundum family, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. The presence of trace elements, such as titanium and iron, is responsible for the characteristic blue color of many sapphires. Interestingly, red corundum is classified as ruby, a distinct gemstone despite its shared mineral composition. The formation of sapphires requires specific geological conditions, notably the absence of silicone, a common element that inhibits their development.
Historically significant sources of sapphires include Kashmir, Myanmar (formerly Burma), and Sri Lanka. These regions were renowned for producing exceptional quality stones. However, modern mining operations have expanded the geographical range of sapphire discovery. Significant quantities are now sourced from Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, and even the United States, specifically Montana. The Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone, originated in Myanmar and was acquired from an Indian maharaja in 1934, demonstrating the historical trade routes and esteemed origins of these gems.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires exhibit a range of gemological properties that contribute to their value and desirability. While blue is the most commonly recognized color, sapphires occur in a wide spectrum, including violet, purple, green, pink, yellow, grey, black, brown, and even colorless varieties. Any color other than blue or red is considered a “fancy colored” sapphire. The rarest and most prized of these fancy colors is the padparadscha sapphire, a delicate pinkish-orange hue derived from the Sinhalese word for lotus flower. Some sapphires even exhibit color-changing properties, shifting between blue and purple depending on the light source.
The color of a sapphire is evaluated based on its hue, tone, and saturation. Like most colored gemstones, these factors determine the gem’s overall beauty and value. Sapphires are remarkably durable, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them suitable for everyday wear. This hardness, second only to diamond, contributes to their longevity and resistance to scratching. Sapphires are composed of aluminum and oxygen, forming the corundum crystal structure.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphires have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Traditionally, the September birthstone represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. These associations have made it a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewelry symbolizing enduring commitment. Beyond these core values, sapphires have been linked to various metaphysical beliefs. Buddhists believed sapphires promoted inner peace, while in Islam, sapphires were associated with the seven heavens.
Ancient traditions also suggest sapphires facilitated communication with the divine. Wearing a sapphire ring while consulting an oracle was believed to increase the likelihood of receiving a prophetic message. The gem was also thought to bring blessings from heaven to the wearer. Lapis lazuli, sometimes historically confused with sapphire, shares similar metaphysical properties, being associated with illumination, communication, and protection.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their exceptional hardness, sapphires are relatively durable and require minimal care. However, proper cleaning and storage are essential to maintain their brilliance. Sapphires can be safely cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gem’s surface. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated sapphires, but caution should be exercised with stones that have been fracture-filled or heat-treated.
Storage should involve keeping sapphires separate from other jewelry to prevent scratching. A soft pouch or jewelry box with individual compartments is ideal. Regular inspection can help identify any potential damage or loose settings, allowing for timely repairs.
Alternative September Birthstones
While sapphire reigns as the primary September birthstone, two alternatives offer equally compelling symbolism and beauty: lapis lazuli and aventurine. Lapis lazuli, a deep blue stone, shares similar metaphysical properties with sapphire, representing illumination, communication, and protection. Historically, it was often mistaken for sapphire, highlighting their visual similarities. Aventurine, a green stone associated with the zodiac sign Virgo, is known as a stone of abundance, empathy, and creativity, and is said to be connected to the realm of the gods. These alternatives provide options for those seeking a different aesthetic or resonance.
Conclusion
The sapphire, September’s birthstone, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its ancient origins steeped in mythology and royalty to its modern-day presence in cherished jewelry, the sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its remarkable range of colors, exceptional durability, and rich symbolism ensure its place as a treasured gem for generations to come. Whether admired for its aesthetic beauty, its historical significance, or its perceived metaphysical properties, the sapphire remains a symbol of sincerity, faithfulness, and the enduring power of nature’s artistry.