September boasts a rich selection of birthstones, offering a spectrum of choices for those born within this transitional month. While sapphire is most prominently recognized as the September birthstone, a fascinating array of alternatives – including peridot, zircon, agate, moonstone, sardonyx, and lapis lazuli – provide diverse options steeped in history, lore, and unique gemological properties. This article will delve into the characteristics of these September birthstones, exploring their origins, symbolism, and significance.
A Month of Two Astrological Influences
Individuals born in September fall under one of two zodiac signs: Virgo (September 1-22) and Libra (September 23-30). This duality is reflected in the variety of birthstones associated with the month. Citrine and zircon are linked to Virgo, while orange citrine, diamond, opal, and peridot are associated with Libra. This broader range allows for a personalized connection to a gemstone based on individual astrological alignment.
Sapphire: The Premier September Birthstone
Sapphire, derived from the Greek word “sappheiros,” stands as the most well-known September birthstone. Belonging to the mineral corundum, the same family as ruby, sapphire’s color arises from trace elements within its crystalline structure. While commonly recognized for its deep blue hues, sapphires actually occur in a wide range of colors, including orange, yellow, green, pink, and purple. The intensity and purity of color significantly impact a sapphire’s value.
Corundum is inherently colorless, and the presence of elements like iron, titanium, or chromium dictates the resulting coloration. This gem boasts a Mohs hardness of 9, making it exceptionally durable and suitable for everyday wear. Historically, sapphire was believed to cure ailments of the eyes, though this was sometimes confused with the similar-looking lapis lazuli before advancements in mineralogy.
Sapphire is not only valued for its beauty but also for its symbolic meaning. It is believed to illuminate the mind with wisdom, spiritual insight, and mental clarity. In relationships, sapphire represents loyalty, faithfulness, and longevity, making it a popular choice for engagement rings as an alternative to diamonds. It is also thought to provide personal motivation and assurance.
Peridot: The Stone of Compassion
Peridot, often considered an alternative September birthstone, particularly for those born under the sign of Libra, presents a vibrant green hue. Its color originates from the presence of chromium, nickel, and iron within its composition. Peridot’s color can range from a bright, yellowish-green to an olive green with brownish undertones. It registers a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7, making it moderately durable.
Historically, peridot was sometimes referred to as “chrysolite,” a term found in ancient texts, including the Bible. Jewelers generally prefer the term peridot, however. Peridot is associated with compassion, emotional balance, cheer, and peace. Its green color is often linked to these qualities, suggesting a calming and restorative energy.
Zircon: An Ancient and Luminescent Gem
Zircon, another September birthstone, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest minerals on Earth. It appears in the Hindu calendar as a September birthstone and is known for its exceptional luminescence and vitreous to adamantine luster. Zircon occurs in a remarkable variety of colors, with blue being a particularly popular choice.
Zircon is not to be confused with cubic zirconia, a synthetic diamond simulant. Zircon is a natural gemstone of significant worth in its own right. It is believed to provide guidance and grounding, offering a sense of stability and direction.
Agate: Layered Beauty from Volcanic Origins
Agate, a semiprecious stone found in volcanic rock, is a form of quartz characterized by its layered structure and distinctive banding. These layers often display changes in chemistry or stripes of different colors, creating unique and visually appealing patterns. Agates come in a wide range of tones, including yellow, amber, brown, and various other colors.
Agates are frequently cut into cabochons and used in beaded jewelry, showcasing their diverse colors and patterns. Spiritually, agate is believed to enhance concentration and thinking, while also balancing one’s aura and eliminating negativity.
Moonstone: The Gem of Intuition and Calm
Moonstone, named for its ethereal, moon-like glow – known as the Schiller effect – is another option for a September birthstone. It can be found in a variety of colors, including blue, pink, black, peach, and white. A myth suggests that placing a moonstone in one’s mouth during a full moon could grant the ability to see into the future, though caution is advised.
Moonstone is highly regarded for its ability to lower stress, calm the mind, sharpen intuition, and inspire creativity.
Sardonyx: Layers of Strength and Healing
Sardonyx, a combination of sard (a variety of chalcedony) and onyx, is characterized by its distinct layers, resembling sedimentary rock formations. This layering makes it a popular choice for creating cameos. Sardonyx is believed to possess healing properties, aiding recovery after illness, and enhancing the five senses, heightening awareness of the natural world.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Truth and Intuition
Lapis lazuli, associated with the zodiac signs Virgo and Libra, is a unique composite of minerals – lazurite, pyrite, and calcite. The lazurite component is responsible for its brilliant blue color. While some samples may be opaque, those without calcite streaks are considered the most valuable.
Mined as early as 700 BC in Afghanistan, lapis lazuli is linked to the third eye chakra and is considered a stone of intuition and truth.
Opal: A Gem of Royalty and Tradition
Opal, traditionally worn in the belief that it could cure eye diseases and promote overall eye health, was once favored by royalty. Despite its elegance, opal also gained a reputation for bringing bad luck, a somewhat contradictory association. It displays concentric markings or stripe-like streaks of color.
Conclusion
September’s birthstones offer a captivating array of choices, each with its own unique history, gemological properties, and symbolic meaning. While sapphire reigns as the premier September birthstone, the alternatives – peridot, zircon, agate, moonstone, sardonyx, and lapis lazuli – provide a diverse palette of options for those seeking a gemstone that resonates with their individual personality and astrological alignment. These gems represent not only beauty and elegance but also qualities such as wisdom, compassion, intuition, and strength, making them cherished symbols of the September-born.