September is traditionally associated with the captivating blue of the sapphire, a gemstone steeped in history, lore, and enduring beauty. Revered for centuries, sapphire symbolizes wisdom, intuition, and nobility. While blue sapphire remains the primary birthstone for this month, alternative gems like Tanzanite and Lapis Lazuli have also been linked to September, offering a wider spectrum of color and meaning. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of sapphire, alongside a discussion of its recognized alternatives.
History and Lore
Sapphires boast a rich and storied past, captivating civilizations for millennia. Ancient Persians held a remarkable belief – that the world rested upon a giant sapphire, and the blue color of the sky was simply a reflection of this immense gem. This belief underscores the profound connection between sapphire and the heavens, a theme that resonates across cultures. In ancient Greece, sapphires were associated with divinity and were worn by priests and kings seeking wisdom and guidance. Buddhists similarly valued sapphires, believing they promoted inner peace and spiritual enlightenment. Within the seven heavens of Islam, sapphires were among the most cherished precious stones.
The sapphire’s association with the sacred extends to Judeo-Christian traditions. It is widely believed that the Ten Commandments were inscribed upon tablets of sapphire, a testament to the stone’s perceived strength and enduring nature. This belief, while not definitively proven, highlights the gem’s historical significance and the reverence it commanded.
More recently, sapphire gained renewed prominence in the 20th century with a significant royal endorsement. In 1981, Prince Charles of Britain presented Lady Diana Spencer with a 12-carat blue sapphire engagement ring, instantly elevating the gem’s status and desirability. This iconic ring continues to be a symbol of enduring love and remains a celebrated piece of jewelry history.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional hardness and durability, qualities stemming from their crystalline structure. These gems are a variety of the mineral corundum, an aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The presence of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, creates the characteristic blue hues, though sapphires can occur in a wide range of colors, including pink, yellow, green, orange, and purple – these are often referred to as “fancy sapphires.” Notably, red corundum is known as ruby, and sapphire has not been found in this color.
Sapphires are mined in various locations around the globe. Significant sources include Madagascar, Australia, Brazil, China, India, and several parts of Southeast Asia. Each region may produce sapphires with slightly different characteristics, influenced by the geological conditions of the area.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are highly valued for their exceptional physical and optical properties. Ranking nine on the Mohs scale of hardness, they are second only to diamonds in terms of resistance to scratching. This durability makes them ideal for everyday wear in jewelry.
The color of a sapphire is a primary factor in determining its value, with deep, vivid blue sapphires being the most prized. However, the intensity and purity of color are crucial. Fancy sapphires, with their diverse range of hues, are also gaining popularity, each color carrying its own unique appeal. A high-quality 1-carat blue sapphire can range in price from $3000 to $5000, though prices fluctuate based on market conditions and specific gem characteristics.
Sapphires exhibit a vitreous luster and can be found in both transparent and translucent forms. They are typically cut into faceted shapes to maximize brilliance and display color. Common cuts include oval, cushion, round, and emerald cuts.
Here's a summary of key gemological properties:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum (Aluminum Oxide - Al₂O₃) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Color | Typically blue, but also pink, yellow, green, orange, purple |
| Transparency | Transparent to Translucent |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with profound symbolic meaning. The deep blue color is often associated with the sky and the heavens, representing wisdom, intuition, and spiritual enlightenment. Sapphires are believed to promote inner peace, focus the mind, and enhance self-discipline.
Beyond these general associations, different cultures have attributed specific powers to the gemstone. For example, blue sapphires are linked to nobility, loyalty, integrity, and sincerity. The stone is thought to bring heavenly blessings and wisdom to the wearer.
While not universally accepted, some modern sources suggest that sapphires can also offer protection against nightmares and negative energies.
Alternative September Birthstones
While sapphire reigns supreme as the traditional September birthstone, alternative gems have been associated with this month, particularly in older texts. Lapis Lazuli is one such alternative, recognized for its deep blue color and spiritual significance. Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite, and has been used for millennia in jewelry and ornamentation.
More recently, Tanzanite has emerged as a popular alternative. This relatively recent discovery, found only in Tanzania, exhibits a captivating blue-violet hue and is known for its trichroism – displaying different colors when viewed from different angles. Turquoise and Zircon are also listed as December birthstones, but are sometimes associated with September.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphires are durable gemstones, but proper care is essential to maintain their brilliance and beauty. Due to their hardness, sapphires are well-suited for everyday wear. However, they can still be scratched by harder materials, such as diamonds.
Cleaning sapphires is relatively straightforward. Warm, soapy water and a soft brush are typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone’s surface. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for unmounted sapphires, but caution should be exercised with mounted stones, particularly those with delicate settings.
Some sapphires undergo treatments to enhance their color or clarity. These treatments may include heat treatment, which is a common and generally accepted practice, or diffusion treatment, which involves introducing color-causing elements into the stone. It is important to be aware of any treatments that have been applied to a sapphire, as they may affect its care requirements.
Conclusion
Sapphire, the traditional birthstone for September, is a gemstone of exceptional beauty, durability, and historical significance. From ancient beliefs linking it to the heavens to its modern-day popularity as a symbol of love and commitment, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. While blue sapphire remains the most iconic variety, the range of colors available, along with alternative birthstones like Lapis Lazuli and Tanzanite, offers a diverse and meaningful selection for those born in September. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that this celestial gemstone retains its brilliance for generations to come.