Sapphire, the captivating birthstone for September, has been revered for centuries for its rich color, enduring hardness, and symbolic significance. Beyond its association with royalty and wisdom, sapphire boasts a fascinating history, diverse geological origins, and a spectrum of colors that extend far beyond the commonly recognized blue. This article delves into the multifaceted world of sapphire, exploring its historical lore, gemological properties, cultural meanings, and practical care, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The allure of sapphire stretches back millennia. Ancient civilizations held the gemstone in high esteem, imbuing it with powerful symbolism. The ancient Persians believed the world rested upon a giant sapphire, and attributed the blue color of the sky to its reflection. This belief highlights the stone’s early association with the heavens and the cosmos. Similarly, in ancient Greece, kings and queens believed sapphires offered protection from harm, a testament to the gem’s perceived protective qualities.
The reverence for sapphire continued into other cultures. Buddhists considered sapphires to promote inner peace, while in the seven heavens of Islam, sapphires were among the most desired precious stones. The stone’s association with the divine is further evidenced by the belief that the Ten Commandments were inscribed on tablets of sapphire, underscoring its perceived strength and enduring nature. These historical accounts demonstrate sapphire’s long-standing connection to power, spirituality, and protection.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are members of the corundum family, an aluminum oxide mineral. The presence of trace elements during formation dictates the gemstone’s color. While blue is the most well-known hue, sapphires can occur in a remarkable range of colors, including teal, green, pink, yellow, and even orange. Red corundum, however, is classified as ruby, a distinct gemstone.
The sources mention sapphires being found “all over the globe,” with specific reference to ethically sourced sapphires from Montana. The sources do not provide a comprehensive list of mining locations, but emphasize the availability of the gem in various regions.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional durability, registering a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes them highly resistant to scratching and suitable for everyday wear. The scientific name for a sapphire crystal is corundum.
The color of a sapphire is evaluated based on its hue, tone, and saturation. Blue sapphires are simply referred to as “sapphire,” while other colors are designated as “fancy colored” sapphires, such as “purple sapphire” or “green sapphire.” Vividly colored stones are generally more valuable than paler ones.
Sapphires are part of the “Big 3” of gemstones, alongside rubies and emeralds, indicating their prominence and desirability in the gem world. Blue sapphire is noted as the most abundant and affordable option within this prestigious group.
Here's a table summarizing key gemological properties, based on the provided sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Gem Family | Corundum (Aluminum Oxide) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Color | Blue, green, pink, yellow, orange, teal |
| Classification | Red corundum is classified as Ruby |
| Luster | Not explicitly stated in sources |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphires have been imbued with symbolic meaning. They are often associated with wisdom, serenity, and mental clarity, making them popular tools in meditation practice. The stone is also believed to foster communication and connection between the mind, body, and soul, promoting harmony and creative thinking. Some writers even believed sapphires could inspire a natural flow of writing ideas and energies.
The association with royalty is deeply ingrained in sapphire’s symbolism, stemming from the color purple’s historical connection to the ruling class. This association continues today, with sapphires representing nobility, truth, and faithfulness.
Care and Cleaning
Despite their exceptional durability, sapphires require proper care to maintain their beauty. The sources recommend cleaning sapphire jewelry with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to avoid scratching or damaging the stone. Harsh chemicals should be avoided, as they can dull the gemstone’s surface. When not being worn, sapphires should be stored in a soft pouch or box to prevent scratches from other jewelry.
September Birthstone Variations: Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli
Historically, the September birthstone wasn’t exclusively sapphire. The British introduced Lapis Lazuli as an alternative for September, particularly for those seeking a more affordable option. While Lapis Lazuli doesn’t possess the same glittering appearance as sapphire, it offers a unique royal blue color that shimmers beautifully in sterling silver. However, the sources emphasize that natural sapphire, in its diverse range of colors, remains the most desirable September birthstone.
Contemporary Sapphire Jewelry
Modern jewelry designs showcase sapphires in a variety of settings. Examples mentioned include sapphire rings inspired by constellations like Orion’s Belt, featuring ethically sourced sapphires set in fairmined gold. Ombre hoop earrings with rows of sapphires and sapphire charms designed for bracelets or necklaces are also highlighted, demonstrating the versatility of the gemstone in contemporary jewelry. The emphasis on ethically sourced materials and unique designs reflects a growing consumer demand for sustainable and personalized jewelry options.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as a testament to nature’s artistry and enduring beauty. From its ancient origins steeped in lore and symbolism to its modern-day appeal in exquisite jewelry, the September birthstone continues to captivate and inspire. Its exceptional durability, diverse color palette, and rich history solidify its position as a treasured gemstone for generations to come. The stone’s association with wisdom, serenity, and protection, combined with its stunning visual appeal, makes it a meaningful and cherished gift for those born in September, or for anyone seeking a touch of celestial elegance.