Sapphire and September’s Gemstone Variety

September boasts a rich selection of birthstones, with sapphire taking center stage as the most widely recognized. However, historical and traditional lists also include jacinth (a form of zircon), chrysoprase, lapis lazuli, and jasper as birthstones for those born between September 1st and 30th. This article will primarily focus on sapphire, exploring its history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and associated lore, while also briefly touching upon the other September birthstones.

Throughout centuries, sapphire has been esteemed as a gemstone of religious teachers and royalty. Pope Innocent III sanctioned its use in episcopal rings as early as the 13th century, associating it with purity and divine favor. It was believed to preserve secrets and offer protection to its wearer. Saint Jerome, a prominent early Christian writer, attributed protective qualities to sapphire, shielding the wearer from captivity and fostering peaceful thought.

The association of gemstones with specific months is a relatively modern concept, evolving from ancient traditions linking gems to the zodiac and the twelve tribes of Israel. While early associations varied, the practice of assigning a single gem to each month gained prominence between the 16th and 18th centuries, with further standardization occurring in the 20th century through initiatives like the National Association of Jewelers’ 1912 list of “modern birthstones.”

A History Rooted in Lore and Royalty

Sapphire’s history is interwoven with tales of power, protection, and wisdom. Kings, queens, and priests have long adorned themselves with sapphires, viewing the gem as a symbol of authority and a safeguard against harm. Beyond its regal associations, sapphire held significance in various spiritual traditions. The Rosicrucian brotherhood, a society claiming ancient wisdom, incorporated hyacinth (a September birthstone, specifically a red-orange zircon) into their “Arabian Garden of Peace,” representing “the true knowledge of absolute love and the triumph over the crude elements of earthly understanding.”

The name “jacinth” itself originates from Arabic roots, while “hyacinth” derives from Greek, referencing the hyacinth flower believed to spring forth by the god Apollo. This gem was historically recommended to travelers embarking on long journeys, and its appearance was thought to be indicative of weather patterns – becoming dull during storms and brightening with clear skies, and even foretelling health and sickness.

Geological Formation and Sources

Sapphire belongs to the corundum family, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide. Ruby, the red variety of corundum, shares the same chemical composition but derives its color from chromium. All other colors of corundum are classified as sapphire. This means sapphires encompass a wide spectrum of hues, including pink, yellow, green, purple, and orange, with the classic blue sapphire being the most well-known.

While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, the text implies a global presence throughout history, with references to use by Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. Alexander the Great is noted to have worn a chrysoprase amulet during his voyages, indicating ancient sourcing and trade routes.

Gemological Properties

The provided sources do not offer detailed gemological properties such as refractive index or specific gravity. However, they establish sapphire’s notable durability and its position within the corundum mineral family. Chrysoprase, another September birthstone, is described as a light green variety of quartz. Jacinth, or hyacinth, is a red-orange form of zircon.

A table summarizing the properties of the primary September birthstones, based on the provided sources, is as follows:

Gemstone	Mineral Family	Color(s)	Historical Significance
Sapphire	Corundum	Primarily Blue, but also Pink, Yellow, Green, Purple, Orange	Royalty, Wisdom, Protection
Jacinth	Zircon	Red-Orange	Travel, Weather Prediction, Health
Chrysoprase	Quartz	Light Green	Blessings, Cheerfulness, Protection

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Sapphire is consistently linked to wisdom, loyalty, and truth. Its association with religious figures and royalty reinforces its symbolism of power and spiritual insight. Jacinth, beyond its practical use for travelers, was believed to possess the ability to foresee changes in weather and health. Chrysoprase was considered a stone of blessings, bringing success, friendship, and removing negative thoughts. Lapis Lazuli, a Virgo zodiacal birth gem for those born between September 1st and 22nd, is not further detailed in the provided sources.

The belief in a gemstone’s ability to influence fate or well-being is a recurring theme. The practice of wearing birthstones is rooted in the idea that these gems resonate with an individual’s birth month, offering strengthened fortitude and exceeding fortunes. The sources suggest that the selection of a birthstone can be a personal one, based on connection, preference, or perceived suitability.

Care and Cleaning

The provided sources do not offer specific care instructions for these gemstones. However, given sapphire’s position within the corundum family, it is understood to be a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. Further research, beyond the scope of these sources, would be necessary to provide detailed cleaning and maintenance advice.

The Other September Birthstones

While sapphire is the most prominent September birthstone, the sources highlight the existence of alternatives. Jacinth (zircon) held significance for travelers and was believed to predict weather and health. Chrysoprase, a green quartz, was associated with blessings and positive energy. Lapis Lazuli and Jasper are listed as astral birthstones for Virgo and Libra, respectively, but receive no further elaboration. The choice of which September birthstone to embrace is presented as a personal one, allowing individuals to connect with the gem that resonates most deeply with them.

Conclusion

September’s birthstones offer a diverse range of gems, each with its own unique history, symbolism, and lore. Sapphire, as the most recognized September birthstone, stands as a testament to enduring beauty, wisdom, and power. From its historical associations with royalty and religious figures to its modern appeal in jewelry, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. The inclusion of jacinth, chrysoprase, lapis lazuli, and jasper as alternative birthstones adds depth and nuance to the September gemstone palette, offering individuals a wider selection to choose from based on personal preference and spiritual connection. The enduring fascination with birthstones reflects a timeless human desire to find meaning and connection in the natural world.