Sapphire, the captivating birthstone of September, has adorned royalty, inspired folklore, and symbolized fidelity for millennia. Belonging to the corundum family, this gem is renowned for its rich blue hues, though it appears in a spectrum of colors, each with its own unique appeal. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and enduring symbolism of the September birthstone, exploring its significance across cultures and its place in modern jewelry.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is deeply interwoven with mythology and the beliefs of ancient civilizations. The gem’s name originates from the Greek word “sappheiros,” and in ancient Greece and Rome, blue sapphires were believed to offer protection from harm and envy. Ancient Persians held a remarkable belief – that the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, which was responsible for the sky’s blue color.
Throughout the Middle Ages, sapphire held a sacred place within the clergy, symbolizing Heaven and representing faith and piety. Its association with royalty was equally strong, adorning the robes and regalia of kings and queens. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the September birthstone was also attributed with healing powers. Medieval Europeans believed sapphire could cure plague boils, alleviate eye diseases, and even serve as an antidote to poison.
Stories and superstitions surrounding sapphires continued to evolve. In ancient times, wearing a sapphire ring while consulting an oracle was thought to increase the likelihood of receiving a true prophecy. The gem’s connection to significant life events is also evident in its association with 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries, and its prominent role in famous engagement rings, most notably that of Princess Diana and now Kate Middleton.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is formed from the mineral corundum, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. The presence of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, is responsible for the gem’s characteristic blue color. Intriguingly, corundum is inherently colorless, and the specific elemental composition dictates the resulting hue. Red corundum, however, is classified as ruby, another member of the corundum family and the birthstone for July. A sapphire’s formation requires specific geological conditions, notably the absence of silicone.
Historically significant sources of sapphire 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.
Notable examples of exceptional sapphires include the Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone originally acquired from an Indian maharaja in 1934. The gem has been recut and reset over time, initially as a brooch and later as a ring. The 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds in Princess Diana’s engagement ring, now worn by the Duchess of Cambridge, remains one of the most iconic and recognizable sapphires in the world.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire’s allure stems not only from its beauty but also from its remarkable physical and optical properties. As a variety of corundum, it boasts a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it exceptionally durable and suitable for everyday wear. This high hardness is second only to diamond.
Sapphires exhibit a wide range of colors beyond the classic blue. These include violet, purple, green, pink, yellow, grey, black, and even clear. Any color other than blue or red (ruby) is considered a “fancy color” sapphire. The rarest and most prized of these fancy sapphires is the padparadscha, a delicate pinkish-orange hue derived from the Sinhalese word for lotus flower. Some sapphires also exhibit the phenomenon of color change, shifting from blue to purple depending on the light source.
The chemical composition of sapphire is aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). Its crystalline structure is trigonal. While blue is the most common color, the specific shade can vary greatly depending on the trace elements present. The presence of titanium and iron typically results in blue hues, while other elements contribute to different colors.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with rich symbolism. Traditionally, the September birthstone represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. These qualities have contributed to its enduring association with royalty, religious figures, and enduring love.
Beyond its symbolic meaning, sapphire has also been attributed with metaphysical properties. Lapis lazuli, sometimes considered an alternative September birthstone, shares similar metaphysical associations, including illumination, communication, and protection. Aventurine, another alternative linked to the Virgo zodiac sign, is associated with abundance, empathy, and creativity.
Some believe that sapphires possess healing powers, echoing the ancient beliefs of medieval Europeans. While modern science does not support these claims, the enduring belief in sapphire’s power speaks to its profound cultural significance.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of a sapphire requires proper care. Warm, soapy water is generally a safe and effective method for cleaning the September birthstone. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are typically safe for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated stones. However, caution is advised for fracture-filled or dyed sapphires, which should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. This is due to the potential for damage to the filling or dye. Regular cleaning will help preserve the brilliance and luster of this remarkable gem.
Conclusion
Sapphire, the September birthstone, is a gem of enduring beauty, rich history, and profound symbolism. From its ancient origins in mythology to its modern-day presence in iconic jewelry, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its exceptional durability, coupled with its stunning array of colors, makes it a treasured gemstone for generations to come. Whether admired for its aesthetic appeal, its historical significance, or its metaphysical properties, sapphire remains a symbol of royalty, faith, and celestial blue.