September, a month steeped in transition and reflection, is associated with two captivating gemstones: Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli. These stones, both known for their striking deep blue hues, carry centuries of cultural significance, rich historical lore, and profound symbolic meaning. While Sapphire is the official birthstone for September, Lapis Lazuli holds an equally revered status as an alternative birthstone. This article delves into the geological, historical, and metaphysical properties of these gems, offering a comprehensive look at their enduring appeal and significance.
Introduction
September is one of the few months with two officially recognized birthstones: Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli. Sapphire, the more prominent of the two, is celebrated for its deep blue color and its association with royalty, wisdom, and protection. Lapis Lazuli, while not a crystal in the traditional sense, is a vibrant metamorphic rock with a rich history of use in jewelry and art, particularly in ancient civilizations. Together, these stones offer a fascinating duality in gemology and symbolism.
This article will explore the origins of these birthstones, their gemological properties, the historical and cultural roles they have played, and their use in jewelry and modern symbolism. Drawing from a range of authoritative sources, we will uncover the unique characteristics that make Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli so special to those born in September.
History and Lore
Sapphire: A Gem of Royalty and Divine Favor
Sapphire has long been a symbol of nobility, truth, and divine favor. Its name comes from the Latin sapphirus and Greek sappheiros, both of which mean “blue,” a reference to its most iconic color. Sapphire has been a gemstone of choice for royalty for millennia, with ancient Persian kings believing the color of the sky was a reflection of the sapphire’s beauty. In medieval times, sapphires were worn by clergy to symbolize Heaven, and it was believed that the gemstone could attract divine blessings.
Throughout history, sapphires have been associated with wisdom and protection. In ancient Greece and Rome, blue sapphires were believed to protect their owners from harm and envy. The gemstone was also thought to possess healing properties. Medieval Europeans believed that sapphire could cure plague boils and diseases of the eye. It was also considered a powerful antidote to poison.
Sapphire’s historical significance is further cemented in its association with major historical figures and events. For example, the 62.02 carat Rockefeller Sapphire, a rectangular step cut stone, was unearthed in Myanmar and is one of the most famous sapphires in the world. This gemstone, like many others, has played a role in the cultural and symbolic fabric of history.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Ancient Artistry and Wisdom
Lapis Lazuli, while not a crystal, has a rich and ancient history that dates back thousands of years. The stone is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, with flecks of pyrite and veins of calcite. It is known for its deep blue color and golden sparkle, making it highly prized in ancient civilizations. Lapis Lazuli has been mined in Afghanistan for over 6,000 years, and it was one of the most sought-after stones in antiquity.
In ancient Egypt, Lapis Lazuli was used to create jewelry and ceremonial objects, and it was believed to have protective and spiritual properties. Pharaohs and high priests were often adorned with lapis, as it was thought to connect the wearer to the divine. The stone was also used in the famous death mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, highlighting its importance in both religious and artistic contexts.
During the Renaissance, Lapis Lazuli found new life as a pigment in the form of ultramarine, a deep blue hue used in paintings by masters like Michelangelo and Titian. The stone’s rarity and beauty made it more valuable than gold in some periods.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire: A Variety of Corundum
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). When corundum contains trace amounts of iron and titanium, it produces the deep blue color that sapphire is known for. Sapphires can, however, occur in nearly every color of the rainbow except red—red corundum is classified as ruby. The most valuable and famous sapphires are the deep blue ones, often referred to as “cornflower blue.”
Sapphires are formed deep within the Earth's crust under intense heat and pressure. They are typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks, and their formation can take millions of years. The most famous sapphire deposits are found in Myanmar (Burma), which is known for producing some of the finest blue sapphires in the world. Other notable sources include Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Australia. In the United States, sapphires are found in Montana, where they are often mined in alluvial deposits.
The durability of sapphire is one of its most notable features. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, sapphire ranks at 9, making it one of the hardest gemstones after diamond. This high hardness means that sapphires are resistant to scratches and abrasions, making them ideal for use in jewelry that is worn daily.
Lapis Lazuli: A Metamorphic Marvel
Unlike sapphire, Lapis Lazuli is not a single mineral but a rock composed of several minerals, including lazurite (the primary blue mineral), pyrite (which gives it golden flecks), and calcite (which appears as white veins). The presence of these minerals gives lapis lazuli its distinctive appearance. The deep blue color comes from lazurite, which contains sulfur and is responsible for the stone’s vibrant hue.
Lapis Lazuli is formed through a process of metamorphism, where sedimentary rocks are subjected to heat and pressure. This transformation can take place over thousands to millions of years. The most significant and highest-quality lapis lazuli is found in Afghanistan, where it has been mined for over 6,000 years. Other sources include Russia, Chile, and Canada.
Lapis lazuli is softer than sapphire, with a hardness of around 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more susceptible to scratches and damage, so it is often used in less everyday pieces of jewelry, such as pendants or brooches, rather than rings or bracelets that are exposed to daily wear.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire: The Hard and Durable Blue Gem
Sapphire is a highly durable gemstone, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes it one of the hardest natural gemstones, second only to diamond, which has a hardness of 10. This durability makes sapphire ideal for use in jewelry that is worn frequently, such as engagement rings and earrings.
The refractive index of sapphire is approximately 1.76 to 1.78, which means it has a high degree of brilliance and sparkle. Sapphires are typically cut in a variety of styles, including the classic round brilliant cut, emerald cut, and princess cut. The choice of cut often depends on the shape and clarity of the rough stone.
Sapphires can occur in a wide range of colors, including blue, pink, yellow, green, and even colorless. However, the most valuable and sought-after sapphires are the deep blue ones. The color of a sapphire can be influenced by the presence of trace elements such as iron and titanium. For example, the iconic blue sapphires from Myanmar are known for their rich, deep color.
In terms of clarity, sapphires can range from very clean to those with visible inclusions. While some inclusions are natural and can add character to the stone, excessive inclusions can reduce its value. Sapphires are often heat-treated to enhance their color and clarity. This treatment is common and widely accepted in the gem trade.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Depth and Beauty
Lapis lazuli is a unique gemstone in that it is not a single mineral but a rock composed of multiple minerals. Its hardness is lower than that of sapphire, ranging from 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more susceptible to scratches and damage, so it is often used in less everyday pieces of jewelry.
The refractive index of lapis lazuli is approximately 1.65 to 1.70, which means it has a moderate degree of brilliance. The stone is typically cut into cabochons or beads, as its softness makes it less suitable for faceted cuts. The deep blue color of lapis lazuli is one of its most distinguishing features, and it is often enhanced by the presence of golden flecks of pyrite.
Lapis lazuli is typically opaque, which means it does not transmit light in the same way that transparent gemstones do. This gives it a different kind of beauty, one that is more subdued and earthy. The presence of calcite veins can also affect the appearance of the stone, with some stones having more prominent white veins than others.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphire: The Stone of Wisdom and Nobility
Sapphire has long been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. In ancient times, it was believed that sapphires could protect their owners from harm and envy. This protective quality made it a popular gemstone for royalty and high-ranking officials.
The stone is also associated with truth and sincerity. In medieval times, sapphires were worn by clergy to symbolize Heaven and divine favor. This belief in the gemstone’s spiritual properties continues to this day, with many people believing that sapphires can help promote inner peace and clarity of thought.
In modern times, sapphire is also associated with romantic love and fidelity. It is a popular gemstone for engagement rings and anniversary gifts, symbolizing the lasting qualities of a relationship. Sapphires are also believed to encourage clear thinking, confidence, and inner strength, making them a powerful stone for personal growth and development.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Intuition and Transformation
Lapis lazuli is often associated with intuition, transformation, and spiritual growth. In ancient times, it was believed to connect the wearer with the divine and to provide protection from negative energies. The stone was also believed to promote wisdom and understanding, making it a popular choice for scholars and philosophers.
In modern metaphysical practices, lapis lazuli is used to enhance intuition and psychic abilities. It is believed to stimulate the third eye chakra, which is associated with higher consciousness and spiritual awareness. The stone is also used to promote emotional balance and to help individuals express their true selves.
Lapis lazuli is also associated with transformation and change. It is believed to help individuals let go of the past and embrace new beginnings. This makes it a powerful stone for those undergoing major life transitions or seeking personal growth.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphire: A Durable Gem That Stands the Test of Time
Due to its high hardness and durability, sapphire is relatively easy to care for. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are also safe for sapphires, as the gemstone is not porous and does not absorb liquids or oils.
Sapphires should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. While sapphires are resistant to scratches, they can still be damaged by impacts or abrasions. It is also important to avoid exposing sapphires to extreme temperatures or chemicals, as this can affect their color and clarity.
Lapis Lazuli: A Delicate Stone That Requires Gentle Handling
Lapis lazuli is a softer stone and requires more careful handling and cleaning. It should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
Lapis lazuli should be stored in a soft cloth or padded jewelry box to prevent scratches. It is also important to avoid exposing lapis lazuli to heat or direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause the stone to fade or lose its luster.
Conclusion
September is a month of transition and transformation, and the birthstones associated with it—Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli—reflect these themes in their beauty and symbolism. Sapphire, with its deep blue color and association with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility, is a gemstone that has been cherished by royalty and clergy for centuries. Lapis Lazuli, while a different type of gem, shares Sapphire’s rich history and deep symbolic meaning, with its own unique connection to intuition, transformation, and spiritual growth.
These two gemstones, though different in composition and origin, share a common thread in their historical significance and enduring appeal. Whether worn as jewelry, used in decorative objects, or studied for their gemological properties, Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli continue to captivate and inspire.
For those born in September, these birthstones offer not only a connection to their heritage but also a powerful symbol of their individuality and personal journey. Whether chosen for its beauty, its history, or its meaning, the September birthstone is a gemstone that truly stands the test of time.