The September birthstone, sapphire, is a gemstone steeped in history, symbolism, and enduring beauty. Traditionally representing faithfulness, nobility, sincerity, and truth, sapphire has captivated civilizations for millennia. While most commonly recognized for its rich blue hues, this remarkable gem actually occurs in a spectrum of colors, with red corundum being classified as ruby. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of sapphire, offering a comprehensive overview of this cherished birthstone.
History and Lore
Sapphires boast a history stretching back centuries, interwoven with tales of royalty, religious significance, and purported healing powers. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed the blue variety of sapphire offered protection from harm and envy. Within the elite circles of these civilizations, sapphires were prized possessions, symbolizing status and safeguarding their wearers. During the Middle Ages, sapphire held a special place within the clergy, representing Heaven and embodying divine grace. Ancient Persian lore even suggested the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, responsible for the sky’s vibrant blue color.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the September birthstone was also attributed with medicinal properties. Medieval Europeans believed sapphire could cure plague boils and alleviate diseases of the eye, and was even considered an antidote to poison. These beliefs, while not scientifically validated, underscore the high esteem in which sapphire was held throughout history.
Notable sapphires have graced the collections of royalty and prominent figures. The Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone originating from Myanmar (Burma), was acquired by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in 1934. More recently, the 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, initially worn by Princess Diana and later given to Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, has become an iconic symbol of romance and enduring legacy.
The association of specific gemstones with birth months is a relatively modern concept, evolving from ancient traditions linking gems to the zodiac and the twelve tribes of Israel. While the practice of assigning a single gem to each month emerged between the 16th and 18th centuries, the enduring popularity of sapphire as the September birthstone remains a testament to its timeless appeal.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are members of the corundum species, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The presence of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, creates the characteristic blue coloration. Other trace elements result in “fancy colored” sapphires, including purple, green, and other hues.
Historically significant sources of sapphire include Kashmir, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka. Kashmir sapphires, discovered around 1881 following a landslide in the Himalayas, are renowned for their velvety “cornflower” blue crystals. Production from this region has been sporadic, making Kashmir sapphires exceptionally rare and coveted. Myanmar, specifically the Mogok area, also yields sapphires, often possessing a rich, intense blue hue. Sri Lanka, known as the “jewel box of the Indian Ocean,” has been a source of sapphires for over 2,000 years, producing both blue and fancy-colored stones.
Significant quantities of sapphire have also been found in Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, and the United States (Montana), among other locations in Asia and Africa. The geological processes leading to sapphire formation typically involve metamorphic or igneous activity, requiring specific temperature and pressure conditions over extended periods.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire exhibits remarkable physical and optical properties that contribute to its desirability as a gemstone. While specific data regarding refractive index and other detailed properties are not provided in the available sources, it is understood that sapphire is a durable and resilient gem.
Sapphire’s color is evaluated based on hue, tone, and saturation. Predominantly blue sapphires are simply referred to as “sapphire,” while other colors are designated as “fancy colored” sapphires, such as “purple sapphire” or “green sapphire.” The intensity and purity of the color significantly impact a sapphire’s value.
Sapphires are part of the “Big Three” of colored gemstones, alongside rubies and emeralds, indicating their high value and widespread recognition. Blue sapphire is generally the most abundant and affordable of these three, making it a widely accessible choice for jewelry and collectors.
Warm, soapy water is a safe and effective method for cleaning sapphires. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated stones. However, fracture-filled or dyed sapphires should only be cleaned with a damp cloth to avoid damaging the treatment.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with profound symbolism. Traditionally, it represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. These associations have contributed to its enduring popularity as a gemstone for engagement rings and other significant jewelry pieces, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
The September birthstone was also believed to possess healing powers, with medieval Europeans attributing its ability to cure plague boils, alleviate eye diseases, and act as an antidote to poison. While these beliefs are rooted in historical folklore, they reflect the reverence with which sapphire was regarded.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of a sapphire requires proper care. As noted previously, warm, soapy water is a safe and effective cleaning method. The use of ultrasonic and steam cleaners is generally acceptable for untreated or heat-treated stones. However, caution should be exercised with sapphires that have undergone fracture filling or dyeing, as these treatments can be sensitive to harsh cleaning methods. A damp cloth is the recommended cleaning method for such stones.
Conclusion
Sapphire, the September birthstone, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of colored gemstones. From its historical associations with royalty and religious significance to its captivating beauty and symbolic meaning, sapphire continues to enchant and inspire. Its geological origins in regions like Kashmir, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka, combined with its remarkable gemological properties, contribute to its status as one of the world’s most prized and cherished gems. Whether admired for its vibrant blue hue or its intriguing fancy colors, sapphire remains a timeless symbol of faithfulness, nobility, and enduring beauty.