September, a month of transition and transformation, is symbolically represented by a selection of gemstones that have captivated human imagination for centuries. While the modern world often recognizes sapphire as the primary birthstone for September, historical, cultural, and astrological traditions reveal a broader and more intricate tapestry of gemstones associated with this month. These include Lapis Lazuli, Peridot, Sardonyx, Moonstone, Zircon, and even Agate in ancient Tibetan calendars. Among these, sapphire and Lapis Lazuli stand out not only for their deep blue hues but also for their symbolic and spiritual significance.
This article delves into the multifaceted world of September birthstones, exploring their geological properties, historical roles, cultural symbolism, and modern relevance. It examines the reasons behind sapphire’s enduring status as the primary birthstone and the resurgence of interest in Lapis Lazuli and other traditional September gemstones.
September Birthstones: A Historical Overview
The concept of birthstones is deeply rooted in ancient traditions, with multiple sources offering variations on the gemstones associated with each month. In the case of September, the gemstone selection reflects a rich historical and cultural evolution.
According to the GIA and several other authoritative sources, sapphire is the modern birthstone for September in both the United States and Britain. This designation is not arbitrary; sapphire has long been associated with royalty, wisdom, and spiritual clarity. As early as ancient Greece and Rome, sapphire was considered a protective gemstone, believed to ward off harm and envy. In medieval Europe, clergy members wore sapphire to symbolize the heavens, reinforcing the gemstone’s association with spiritual purity and divine favor.
Lapis Lazuli, the alternative September birthstone in British tradition, also boasts an ancient lineage. Used by the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and later by the Romans, lapis lazuli was prized for its deep blue color and was often ground into pigment for art and religious iconography. The gemstone was believed to enhance wisdom and truth, making it a fitting companion to sapphire in the September birthstone lineup.
In contrast, other traditional September birthstones like Peridot, Sardonyx, and Moonstone appear in older or regional calendars. These include the traditional calendar, the ancient calendar, and the Tibetan and Indian systems. For instance, Peridot was historically associated with September in some European traditions, while Zircon holds significance in the Hindu calendar.
The existence of multiple birthstone lists for September highlights the diversity of cultural and spiritual beliefs surrounding gemstones. While sapphire and Lapis Lazuli are the most widely recognized today, exploring the lesser-known alternatives provides a richer understanding of September’s symbolic legacy.
Geological Formation and Sources of September Birthstones
To fully appreciate the September birthstones, it is essential to understand their geological origins and where they are found in nature.
Sapphire
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). What distinguishes sapphire from its red counterpart, ruby, is the trace elements present during its formation. Sapphires owe their blue color to the presence of iron and titanium. While blue is the most well-known variety, sapphires can occur in nearly every color of the spectrum, including pink, yellow, green, and even colorless.
Sapphires form under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth's crust, typically in metamorphic and igneous rock environments. The world’s most famous sapphire deposits are found in countries like Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Thailand, and Australia. The famed Kashmir sapphires, known for their velvety blue color, were mined in the Himalayas and are now considered among the rarest and most valuable sapphires in the world.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a sodium calcium aluminum silicate. The deep blue color of lapis lazuli comes from the presence of sulfur in the lazurite structure. Other minerals such as calcite (white spots) and pyrite (gold flecks) are commonly found in lapis lazuli, adding to its unique appearance.
Lapis lazuli forms in regions where limestone is exposed to high heat and pressure, leading to metamorphism. The most significant and high-quality lapis lazuli is sourced from Afghanistan, a region that has supplied this gemstone for thousands of years. Other notable sources include Russia, Chile, and the United States.
Gemological Properties of September Birthstones
Understanding the gemological properties of September’s birthstones is crucial for both collectors and jewelers, as these properties influence the gemstone’s durability, appearance, and care requirements.
Sapphire: A Hard and Durable Gemstone
Sapphire ranks a 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making it one of the hardest gemstones after diamond and moissanite. This high hardness ensures that sapphires are resistant to scratches and abrasions, making them ideal for everyday wear in jewelry. However, while sapphire is hard, it can still be damaged by impacts due to its potential for cleavage in certain directions.
Sapphire exhibits a refractive index between 1.76 and 1.78, allowing it to refract light effectively. It is typically transparent to translucent and is available in a wide range of colors, with blue being the most iconic. Sapphires are often heat-treated to enhance their color, a practice that is widely accepted in the gem trade.
Lapis Lazuli: A Unique and Softer Stone
Unlike sapphire, lapis lazuli is a composite rock rather than a single mineral, and it is significantly softer, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more susceptible to scratches and damage compared to sapphire. Lapis lazuli is opaque and composed of several minerals, giving it a distinctive and textured appearance.
The gemstone is typically cut into cabochons or small carvings rather than faceted gemstones, as its inclusions and softness make it unsuitable for precision faceting. Despite its softness, lapis lazuli is highly valued for its deep blue color and historical significance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The September birthstones are not only admired for their beauty and durability but also for their rich symbolism and spiritual significance across various cultures and eras.
Sapphire: A Stone of Wisdom and Nobility
Sapphire has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight. In ancient times, it was believed that sapphires could protect the wearer from envy and harm, and they were often used in royal regalia. The gemstone’s deep blue color was linked to the heavens and the divine, making it a symbol of spiritual purity.
In medieval Europe, sapphires were thought to have healing properties. They were believed to cure diseases of the eye and to serve as an antidote to poison. Today, sapphires continue to symbolize sincerity, faithfulness, and nobility, and they are often given as gifts for 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries, as well as the 65th anniversary when Star Sapphire is the traditional gift.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Truth and Intuition
Lapis lazuli has been revered for its deep blue color and its association with truth and wisdom. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was considered a sacred stone and was used in jewelry, amulets, and even as a pigment in cosmetics and art. It was believed to enhance the wearer’s intuition and bring about a sense of inner peace and clarity.
In medieval times, lapis lazuli was also linked to divine knowledge and was often used in religious artifacts. Today, it is still valued for its calming energy and is believed to help with emotional balance and spiritual awakening.
Care and Cleaning of September Birthstones
Proper care is essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of September birthstone jewelry. The following guidelines are based on the gemological properties of sapphire and lapis lazuli:
Sapphire
- Cleaning: Sapphires can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are also safe for sapphires, provided the gemstone is free from fractures or inclusions that might be damaged by vibrations.
- Storage: Store sapphires separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft pouch or individual compartment in a jewelry box is ideal.
- Avoid: While sapphires are durable, they should be protected from sudden impacts and extreme temperatures.
Lapis Lazuli
- Cleaning: Lapis lazuli should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the surface.
- Storage: Lapis lazuli should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and other gemstones that might scratch its surface.
- Avoid: Exposure to water for extended periods can cause lapis lazuli to lose its luster or become discolored.
Conclusion
The September birthstones—particularly sapphire and lapis lazuli—embody a rich tapestry of geological, historical, and cultural significance. From their formation deep within the Earth to their use in royal regalia and spiritual practices, these gemstones have played a vital role in human history and continue to be cherished today. Whether as a symbol of wisdom, as a protective talisman, or simply for their beauty, the September birthstones offer a profound connection to the past and a timeless allure.
In a world where gemstones are often admired for their aesthetic appeal, the September birthstones remind us of the deeper meanings and values that these natural treasures can carry. They are more than just adornments—they are vessels of history, culture, and enduring human fascination.