Sapphire, the recognized birthstone of September, holds a prominent place in the world of gemstones, celebrated for its captivating beauty, rich history, and enduring symbolism. While most commonly associated with a deep, vivid blue, sapphire actually encompasses a spectrum of colors, with red corundum being classified as ruby. For millennia, this gemstone has been prized by royalty, clergy, and individuals alike, believed to offer protection, promote wisdom, and symbolize fidelity. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of the September birthstone, exploring its diverse colors and enduring appeal.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is deeply interwoven with tales of royalty, spirituality, and healing. Ancient civilizations held the gemstone in high regard. In ancient Greece and Rome, blue sapphires were believed to protect owners from harm and envy. Ancient Persians even held the belief that the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, which was responsible for the blue color of the sky. Medieval Europeans attributed healing powers to the stone, believing it could cure plague boils and eye diseases, and even serve as an antidote to poison.
For centuries, sapphire adorned the robes of the clergy, symbolizing Heaven and representing faith and piety. Its association with nobility continued throughout history, becoming a favorite among kings and priests, embodying purity and wisdom. The stone’s enduring appeal is evident in its continued use in royal jewelry, most notably exemplified by Princess Diana’s iconic 12-carat blue Ceylon sapphire engagement ring, a choice that challenged royal traditions by allowing access to the same jewels for non-royals. Napoleon Bonaparte also gifted his fiancée a sapphire engagement ring in 1796, further cementing the stone’s romantic associations.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire belongs to the corundum family, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. Its color arises from trace elements within the crystal structure. While pure corundum is colorless, the presence of elements like iron and titanium creates the characteristic blue hues. Other trace elements result in “fancy colored” sapphires, including pink, yellow, green, and purple varieties. Red corundum, however, is classified as ruby, a distinct gemstone.
The sources for sapphires are geographically diverse. While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided materials beyond the mention of Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka) as a source for Princess Diana’s ring, the gem is known to be found in various locations worldwide. The abundance of blue sapphire makes it the most accessible of the “Big Three” gemstones – sapphire, ruby, and emerald.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional durability, ranking nine on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes them exceptionally well-suited for everyday wear, resisting scratches and maintaining their brilliance. Only diamonds, with a Mohs hardness of ten, surpass sapphire in hardness.
Sapphires exhibit a wide range of colors, with blue being the most popular and recognizable. However, sapphires occur in all colors of the rainbow except red. 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 evaluation of a sapphire’s color considers its hue, tone, and saturation.
A one-carat, high-quality blue sapphire can range in price from $3000 to $5000, though prices fluctuate daily. Sapphires are evaluated based on the “4Cs” – color, clarity, cut, and carat weight – similar to diamonds.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with profound symbolism. Traditionally, the September birthstone represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. It is believed to guard against evil and poisoning, a belief that dates back to ancient times. Sapphires are also associated with promoting wisdom, clarity, and spiritual insight. Some modern beliefs suggest that Water Sapphire, also known as Iolite, aids in out-of-body journeys and vision. Lapis Lazuli, another stone associated with September, symbolizes truth, clarity, and a connection to the heavens, promoting peace and serenity.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphires are a practical choice for jewelry due to their exceptional hardness. They can withstand the rigors of daily wear. However, proper care is essential to maintain their brilliance. The provided materials suggest that sapphires are “tough cookies” and can withstand high-contact daily life. Regular cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush is recommended to remove dirt and oils.
Alternative September Birthstones
While sapphire is the primary birthstone for September, other gemstones are also associated with the month. Lapis Lazuli, with its deep blue hue and historical connection to the heavens, is considered an alternative birthstone. Iolite, or Water Sapphire, is another option, known for its shifting shades of violet-blue and its association with vision and spiritual journeys.
Sapphire Varieties and Fancy Colors
The versatility of sapphire extends beyond the classic blue. “Fancy colored” sapphires offer a rainbow of options, each with its unique charm and significance. Pink sapphires evoke romance, yellow sapphires radiate joy, and green sapphires bring a refreshing connection to nature. These color variations are a result of different trace elements within the gem’s crystal structure, making each sapphire a unique masterpiece.
Sapphire and Engagement Rings
Sapphires have a long history as a preferred gemstone for engagement rings, predating the widespread popularity of diamonds. Royal families have favored sapphire engagement rings for centuries, symbolizing enduring love and commitment. Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring, now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales, is a testament to the stone’s enduring appeal and romantic significance.
Conclusion
Sapphire, the September birthstone, is a gemstone of exceptional beauty, durability, and historical significance. From its ancient associations with royalty and spirituality to its modern appeal in engagement rings and everyday jewelry, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its diverse range of colors, coupled with its enduring symbolism of wisdom, fidelity, and protection, makes it a treasured gemstone for those born in September and a timeless addition to any jewelry collection.