Sapphire, the esteemed birthstone for September, has captivated humanity for millennia with its rich history, enduring symbolism, and breathtaking beauty. Traditionally associated with royalty, nobility, and faithfulness, this gemstone holds a prominent place in both historical lore and modern jewelry. While most commonly recognized in its iconic blue hue, sapphire actually encompasses a spectrum of colors within the corundum mineral family, with red corundum being known as ruby. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of the September birthstone, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is deeply interwoven with tales of power, protection, and divine connection. Ancient civilizations held the gemstone in high regard, attributing to it a multitude of virtues. In ancient Greece, sapphires were believed to offer the wearer safety from harm, while others considered the Earth to rest upon a giant sapphire, responsible for the sky’s vibrant blue color. These beliefs extended to the notion that sapphires possessed the power to treat plagues and act as an antidote to poisons.
Medieval Europeans continued to ascribe healing properties to the September birthstone, believing it could cure plague boils and alleviate eye diseases. Clerics of the Middle Ages wore sapphires as a symbol of Heaven, further cementing its association with the divine. Ancient Persians shared a similar cosmological belief, envisioning the world supported by a massive sapphire, imbuing the stone with a sense of foundational strength and celestial connection.
Throughout history, sapphire jewelry – including rings, earrings, and necklaces – was favored by those of high status. The gemstone’s association with royalty and the elite has endured for centuries, with sapphires frequently appearing in family heirlooms and extravagant displays of wealth.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are formed in metamorphic and igneous rocks, requiring specific geological conditions to develop their characteristic crystalline structure. Historically significant sources for the September birthstone include Kashmir, Myanmar (formerly Burma), and Sri Lanka. These locations were renowned for producing sapphires of exceptional quality and color.
However, the search for sapphires has expanded over time, with significant quantities now being found in Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, and even the United States, specifically in Montana. The Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone, originated in Myanmar and was acquired from an Indian maharaja in 1934. This exemplifies the historical importance of the region as a source of exceptional sapphires.
More recently, the 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds in the engagement ring worn by Princess Diana, and later by Kate Middleton, has brought renewed attention to the gemstone’s enduring appeal.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire belongs to the corundum mineral family, with a chemical composition of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). While blue is the most well-known color, sapphires can occur in a rainbow of hues. The intensity and purity of the blue color significantly impact the stone’s value, with velvety blue or violet shades commanding the highest price per carat.
The sources do not provide specific details regarding clarity, cut, or carat weight beyond the examples of the Rockefeller Sapphire and the Princess Diana engagement ring. However, the mention of citrine’s hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale suggests that sapphire, also a corundum, possesses comparable durability, making it suitable for everyday wear. Further gemological details, such as refractive index and specific gravity, are not provided within the available sources.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The September birthstone is traditionally associated with sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. These symbolic meanings have resonated across cultures and throughout history. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, sapphire has been believed to possess metaphysical properties, offering protection from harm and envy.
The association with royalty and the clergy further reinforced its symbolism of power, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment. In some cultures, sapphire was considered a protective talisman, shielding the wearer from evil spirits and negative energies. The stone was also thought to be an antidote to poison, highlighting its perceived protective qualities.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of a sapphire requires careful consideration of its properties. Warm, soapy water is generally a safe and effective cleaning method. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are typically suitable for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated sapphires. However, fracture-filled or dyed sapphires should only be cleaned with a damp cloth to avoid damaging the treatment. This highlights the importance of understanding any treatments applied to a sapphire before attempting to clean it.
Conclusion
Sapphire, the September birthstone, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its ancient origins as a symbol of royalty and protection to its modern-day status as a cherished adornment, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its rich history, diverse geological sources, and profound symbolism solidify its place as a truly celestial gem, embodying sincerity, truth, and faithfulness. The stone’s enduring appeal ensures its continued prominence in the world of gemstones for generations to come.