Sapphire, the celebrated birthstone of September, holds a prominent place in the history of gemstones, revered for its captivating beauty and enduring symbolism. For centuries, this gem has been associated with celestial hues, spiritual enlightenment, and protective powers, making it a cherished possession of royalty, clergy, and individuals seeking wisdom and good fortune. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of the sapphire, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The allure of sapphire dates back to antiquity. As early as the Middle Ages, sapphire was highly prized, its deep blue color evoking images of heaven and attracting divine favor and wise judgment. Ancient Greeks wore sapphires when consulting the oracle, believing the stone would provide guidance and clarity. In Buddhist tradition, sapphire was thought to foster spiritual enlightenment, while Hindu worshippers utilized the gem during religious ceremonies. Early Christian kings valued sapphires for their protective qualities, often incorporating them into ecclesiastical rings.
Historical accounts, though sometimes debated, suggest a fascinating connection to religious texts. Some ancient Hebrews believed the Ten Commandments were inscribed upon tablets of sapphire, although modern historians suggest the blue gemstone referenced in the Bible was more likely lapis lazuli.
The most exceptional sapphires historically originated from the Kashmir region of India, mined between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A Kashmir sapphire set a world record price-per-carat in October 2015, selling for an astounding $242,000 per carat, totaling over $6.74 million. Sri Lanka has also been a significant source of notable sapphires, including famous star sapphires such as the 1404.49-carat Star of Adam, the 563.4-carat Star of India, and the 182-carat Star of Bombay. Australia was a key supplier until the 1990s, when Madagascar emerged as the leading producer of sapphire gemstones worldwide.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires belong to the corundum mineral family, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. While most commonly known for its blue hues, sapphires actually occur in a full spectrum of colors, excluding red – red corundum is classified as ruby. The various colors are attributed to trace elements within the crystal structure.
Historically, Kashmir, India, was renowned for producing sapphires of exceptional quality. However, Madagascar currently leads global sapphire production. Sri Lanka also remains a significant source, particularly for star sapphires, which exhibit a unique asterism – a six-rayed star-like pattern. Australia was previously a major source, but its prominence has diminished with the discoveries in Madagascar.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are highly valued for their durability and beauty. As a variety of corundum, they possess a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them exceptionally resistant to scratching and suitable for everyday wear. This high hardness contributes to their longevity and makes them ideal for all types of jewelry.
Sapphires are marketed according to their color, with “sapphire” referring specifically to the blue variety when used without qualification. Beyond blue, sapphires can be found in yellow, purple, and other colors. The intensity and purity of color significantly impact a sapphire’s value, with vivid stones generally commanding higher prices than paler ones.
Some sapphires exhibit a phenomenon known as asterism, displaying a six-rayed star when cut en cabochon (a smooth, rounded shape). This effect is caused by the presence of microscopic inclusions aligned within the gemstone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with rich symbolism. It is widely considered a protective gemstone, believed to shield the wearer from both physical harm and negative intentions. Sapphires were thought to have medicinal properties, and blue sapphires were particularly revered as a highly spiritual stone, often worn by priests.
The association with royalty and the ruling class stems from the color purple’s historical connection to power and prestige. Over time, sapphires have also become linked to mental clarity, healing, and spirituality. Some believe sapphires can bring relief from ailments, including stomach aches and insomnia, and promote overall well-being. While some superstitions surrounding opals are negative, sapphires are generally considered to bring good luck.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphires, due to their exceptional hardness, are relatively durable gemstones. However, like all jewelry, they require proper care 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 could potentially damage the stone or its setting. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated sapphires, but caution should be exercised with stones that have been fracture-filled or heat-treated. Regular cleaning will help preserve the sapphire’s luster and ensure its continued beauty for generations.
Sapphire Varieties and Color
While blue is the most recognizable color for sapphire, it’s important to note the wide range of hues this gemstone can exhibit. Sapphires occur in almost every color, except for red, which is reserved for ruby. These colored sapphires are often referred to by their specific color – for example, yellow sapphire, pink sapphire, or purple sapphire. The green hue of some peridot may overlap with the green color displayed by emeralds, however, peridot often features a unique yellowish overtone not observed in emeralds.
Conclusion
Sapphire remains a captivating and highly sought-after gemstone, steeped in history, symbolism, and geological wonder. From its ancient origins as a symbol of heaven and divine favor to its modern status as a beloved birthstone and a prized possession, sapphire continues to enchant and inspire. Its exceptional durability, combined with its stunning beauty and rich cultural significance, ensures that sapphire will remain a treasured gem for centuries to come.