The month of September is rich with symbolic and gemological significance, marked by a collection of precious and semi-precious stones that reflect its celestial, cultural, and spiritual heritage. Among these, the sapphire—particularly in its deep blue hue—stands as the primary September birthstone, while lapis lazuli, peridot, sardonyx, moonstone, zircon, chrysoprase, jacinth, and agate are also associated with the month in various traditions. Each of these gems carries its own unique history, meaning, and physical properties, making September a month of rich symbolic diversity in the world of birthstones.
This article explores the geological, historical, and cultural dimensions of September’s birthstones, with a particular focus on sapphire and lapis lazuli as the most widely recognized stones of the month. We will examine their physical properties, historical uses, symbolic meanings, and their roles in jewelry and spiritual practices. Additionally, we will touch on the other gems associated with September, including their origins and lesser-known attributes.
History and Lore
The September birthstone tradition is deeply rooted in ancient beliefs and cultural practices, with sapphire and lapis lazuli being among the most historically significant stones associated with the month.
The Origins of the September Birthstone
The association of sapphire with September dates back to ancient times, when the gem was considered a symbol of divine wisdom and protection. The name "sapphire" comes from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning “blue” or “precious stone,” and was used to describe the gem’s deep blue color, which was believed to resemble the sky and the heavens. In medieval Europe, sapphires were worn by royalty and clergy as symbols of truth, purity, and faith. They were also believed to offer protection against envy and poison. The Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder wrote that sapphires could protect the wearer from harm and were used as talismans in times of danger.
Lapis lazuli, the alternative September birthstone in some traditions, has an equally rich history. Known as the “stone of the heavens,” lapis lazuli was prized by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Persians for its deep blue color and golden flecks. It was used in religious ceremonies, as pigment for art and cosmetics, and as a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment. The stone was often ground into powder to create the famous ultramarine pigment used in Renaissance paintings.
In some older traditions, other stones were also considered September birthstones. For instance, peridot was listed as the September birthstone in several historical calendars, including those of the Arabs, Hebrews, and Italians. Sardonyx, a banded chalcedony, was the September birthstone in the Roman Empire and was believed to offer protection and confidence. Moonstone, with its ethereal glow, was revered as a stone of love and intuition, while agate was considered a stone of clarity and focus in the old Tibetan calendar.
These historical associations highlight the symbolic richness of September’s birthstones and their roles in both spiritual and cultural practices.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological properties of September’s birthstones are as diverse as their historical significance, with each stone formed through unique geological processes and found in specific locations around the world.
Sapphire
Sapphire is a corundum gemstone, composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace elements that determine its color. While blue sapphires are the most well-known and valuable, sapphires can occur in a wide range of colors, including pink, yellow, green, and even colorless (referred to as white sapphires). The blue color of sapphire is primarily due to the presence of trace amounts of iron and titanium.
Sapphires are formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, typically in metamorphic rocks or igneous rocks such as basalt. They are found in a number of countries, including:
- Sri Lanka – Known for producing high-quality blue sapphires.
- Myanmar (Burma) – Famous for its “pigeon’s blood” sapphires, a vivid red-orange variety.
- Madagascar – A major source of sapphires in various colors.
- Australia – Produces a wide range of sapphire colors, including the popular “Padparadscha” sapphires, which have a pink-orange hue.
- India and Thailand – Also important sources of sapphires.
Sapphires have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them extremely durable and suitable for use in jewelry. Their refractive index ranges from 1.76 to 1.78, and they exhibit a vitreous (glassy) luster.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. Its deep blue color comes from the presence of lazurite, while the white calcite and golden flecks of pyrite add to its visual appeal. Lapis lazuli is formed from the metamorphism of limestone and is found in regions where there are high levels of sodium and sulfur.
The primary sources of lapis lazuli include:
- Afghanistan – The most famous and traditional source of lapis lazuli, with deposits dating back to ancient times.
- Russia – Known for producing high-quality lapis lazuli with a deep blue color and fine pyrite flecks.
- Brazil – A modern source of lapis lazuli, often with a lighter blue color.
- Egypt and Pakistan – Also produce lapis lazuli, though the quality can vary.
Lapis lazuli has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to sapphire. It is typically used for carvings, beads, and inlay work rather than as a center stone in fine jewelry.
Other September Birthstones
Other September birthstones include:
- Peridot – A silicate mineral with a green color due to the presence of iron. It is formed in igneous rocks and is found in countries such as the United States, Brazil, and Egypt.
- Sardonyx – A banded chalcedony with alternating red and white bands. It is formed from quartz-rich sedimentary rocks and is found in India, Brazil, and the United States.
- Moonstone – A type of feldspar that exhibits a phenomenon called adularescence, where a shimmering light appears to float across the surface. It is formed in pegmatite rocks and is found in India, Sri Lanka, and the United States.
- Zircon – A zirconium silicate that occurs in a range of colors, including blue, green, and brown. It is found in countries such as Thailand, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka.
- Chrysoprase – A green variety of chalcedony, formed in serpentinite rocks. It is found in Australia, Brazil, and the United States.
- Jacinth (Hyacinth) – A red to orange gemstone, also known as garnet. It is formed in metamorphic rocks and is found in Brazil, India, and Tanzania.
- Agate – A banded chalcedony that forms in volcanic rocks. It is found in countries such as Brazil, Uruguay, and the United States.
Each of these stones has its own unique geological properties and sources, contributing to the rich diversity of September’s birthstones.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of September’s birthstones are essential for understanding their use in jewelry and their value in the gemstone market.
Sapphire
As a corundum, sapphire is one of the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes it highly durable and suitable for use in rings, bracelets, and other types of jewelry that are worn daily. Sapphires have a refractive index of 1.76 to 1.78 and exhibit a vitreous (glassy) luster. Their color can range from deep blue to light blue, with the most valuable sapphires having a rich, intense color.
Sapphires are also known for their excellent thermal conductivity and resistance to scratching and abrasion. They are often cut into brilliant or step cuts to enhance their fire and brilliance. Due to their hardness and beauty, sapphires are a popular choice for engagement rings, pendants, and other fine jewelry pieces.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to sapphire. This means that it is more susceptible to scratches and damage, and it is typically used for carvings, beads, and inlay work rather than as a center stone in fine jewelry. Lapis lazuli has a refractive index of approximately 1.66 and exhibits an opaque to translucent appearance. Its deep blue color and golden flecks of pyrite give it a unique and distinctive look.
Other September Birthstones
Other September birthstones include:
- Peridot – Has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is known for its bright green color. It is relatively durable and is often used in rings and pendants.
- Sardonyx – Has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is known for its banded appearance. It is often used in carvings and beads.
- Moonstone – Has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale and is known for its shimmering luster. It is best suited for pendants and earrings rather than rings.
- Zircon – Has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale and is known for its high refractive index and brilliance. It is often used as a diamond substitute.
- Chrysoprase – Has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is known for its vibrant green color. It is often used in carvings and beads.
- Jacinth (Hyacinth) – Has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale and is known for its red to orange color. It is relatively durable and is used in rings and pendants.
- Agate – Has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is known for its banded appearance. It is often used in beads and carvings.
These gemological properties influence the way each stone is used in jewelry and its care requirements.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The September birthstones are not only valued for their beauty and durability but also for their symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties.
Sapphire
Sapphire has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and purity. In ancient Greece and Rome, sapphires were believed to protect the wearer from harm and envy. They were also associated with the heavens, and were considered a symbol of divine guidance and spiritual enlightenment.
In medieval Europe, sapphires were worn by royalty and clergy as symbols of faith and righteousness. They were believed to have healing properties, including the ability to cure diseases of the eye and protect against poison. In modern times, sapphires are often associated with loyalty, sincerity, and nobility.
Sapphires are also believed to enhance mental clarity, improve leadership skills, and increase discipline. They are thought to help the wearer communicate more effectively and express their thoughts with confidence and clarity. In spiritual practices, sapphires are used to connect with the higher self and promote inner peace.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is known as the “stone of wisdom” and is believed to enhance mental clarity, intuition, and spiritual awareness. It is often used in meditation to promote inner peace and enlightenment. Lapis lazuli is also associated with the throat chakra, making it a powerful stone for communication and self-expression.
In ancient times, lapis lazuli was believed to protect the home and bring harmony and peace to those who wore it. It was also used in rituals to connect with the divine and to enhance spiritual insight.
Other September Birthstones
Other September birthstones include:
- Peridot – Associated with positive energy and emotional healing. It is believed to open the heart and promote love and compassion.
- Sardonyx – A protective stone that is believed to bring confidence, optimism, and success. It is also used to enhance focus and memory.
- Moonstone – A stone of intuition and emotional balance. It is believed to enhance feminine energy, promote love, and protect nighttime travelers.
- Zircon – Known for its calming properties and ability to promote inner peace. It is also believed to enhance spiritual awareness and intuition.
- Chrysoprase – A stone of abundance and prosperity. It is believed to promote growth, creativity, and healing.
- Jacinth (Hyacinth) – A stone of passion and vitality. It is believed to enhance courage, confidence, and emotional strength.
- Agate – A stone of stability and clarity. It is believed to enhance intelligence, promote eloquence, and provide emotional support.
These metaphysical properties make the September birthstones valuable not only as gemstones but also as tools for spiritual and emotional healing.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of September’s birthstones. Due to their varying hardness and sensitivity, each stone requires specific care instructions.
Sapphire
Sapphires are among the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes them highly durable and able to withstand everyday wear. However, they can still be scratched by harder substances such as diamonds. Sapphires can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are also safe for sapphires.
To maintain the brilliance of a sapphire, avoid exposing it to extreme heat or chemicals. It is also important to store sapphires separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and more susceptible to damage. It is best to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on lapis lazuli. Instead, it can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for lapis lazuli, as they can cause damage to the stone.
Lapis lazuli should also be stored in a soft cloth or padded container to prevent scratches and damage from other gemstones.
Other September Birthstones
- Peridot – Can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
- Sardonyx – Can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Moonstone – Should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
- Zircon – Can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Chrysoprase – Can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
- Jacinth (Hyacinth) – Can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Agate – Can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
By following these care instructions, the beauty and value of September’s birthstones can be preserved for generations.
Conclusion
The September birthstones—sapphire, lapis lazuli, peridot, sardonyx, moonstone, zircon, chrysoprase, jacinth, and agate—each carry their own unique history, meaning, and properties. From the deep blue sapphire, symbolizing wisdom and truth, to the golden-flecked lapis lazuli, representing the heavens and spiritual insight, these gems reflect the rich cultural and symbolic heritage of the month of September.
Whether used in jewelry, spiritual practices, or as symbols of protection and healing, the September birthstones continue to captivate and inspire. Their geological beauty, historical significance, and metaphysical properties make them treasured stones in the world of gemology and beyond.