Sapphire, the deep blue gemstone revered for its brilliance and spiritual significance, holds a prominent place in the world of birthstones. As the official birthstone for September, sapphire has been cherished for centuries across cultures for its symbolic associations with wisdom, truth, and protection. This article explores the rich history, geological properties, and cultural significance of sapphire, as well as its role as an alternative birthstone—Lapis Lazuli. Drawing from historical accounts, scientific data, and spiritual traditions, the following sections provide a comprehensive overview of the September birthstone.
Introduction
Sapphire, a gemstone of striking beauty and enduring significance, is the most widely recognized birthstone for those born in September. Known for its deep blue hues and symbolic meaning, sapphire has captivated the imagination of people for centuries. The gem is not only prized for its aesthetic appeal but also for its historical and spiritual associations. Sapphire has been a symbol of royalty, divine wisdom, and protection, making it a cherished gift for September birthdays.
In addition to sapphire, Lapis Lazuli is also recognized as a September birthstone. This vibrant gem, known for its celestial blue with golden flecks, carries its own rich history and symbolism. Together, these two gemstones represent the diverse cultural and spiritual heritage of the September birthstone tradition.
This article will explore the history and lore of sapphire and Lapis Lazuli, their geological formation and properties, their symbolic meanings, and practical advice on caring for these precious stones.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is deeply intertwined with ancient civilizations and their cultural beliefs. The name "sapphire" is derived from the Latin sapphirus and the Greek sapheiros, both of which mean "blue." This etymology highlights the gemstone's most famous color—deep blue, which has been associated with royalty and divinity throughout history.
In ancient Persia, sapphire was believed to be the reason the sky was blue. It was thought that the Earth rested on a giant sapphire that colored the heavens a deep blue. Similarly, medieval clergy wore sapphires to symbolize the purity of heaven, and ordinary citizens believed the gem attracted heavenly blessings.
Sapphire has also held a special place in the world of royalty. Kings and queens throughout history have adorned themselves with sapphires, seeing them as symbols of power, wisdom, and protection. The gemstone's association with nobility and divine favor has persisted into modern times, where sapphire continues to be a popular choice for royal jewelry and high-profile gifts.
Lapis Lazuli, the alternative September birthstone, has its own rich historical background. This gemstone, known for its deep blue color with golden flecks of pyrite, was used in ancient Egypt for jewelry and even as a pigment in cosmetics. Cleopatra famously powdered lapis to use as eye shadow, and it was also used in the creation of the famous mask of Tutankhamun. Lapis Lazuli was considered a stone of wisdom and truth in many ancient cultures and was often associated with the divine and the cosmos.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The deep blue color of sapphire is primarily due to trace amounts of iron and titanium. Sapphires are formed through geological processes deep within the Earth's crust, where high temperatures and pressures cause the crystallization of corundum. These conditions are typically found in metamorphic rocks and igneous rocks, particularly in areas with significant geological activity.
Sapphires are found in various parts of the world, including Afghanistan, Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, China, India, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Thailand. Each source produces sapphires with unique characteristics, such as color intensity, clarity, and inclusions. The most prized sapphires come from Kashmir, which are known for their velvety blue color and exceptional clarity.
Lapis Lazuli, on the other hand, is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, with varying amounts of other minerals such as pyrite, calcite, and augite. The deep blue color of lapis lazuli is due to the presence of lazurite, which contains sulfur. The golden flecks of pyrite are a distinguishing feature of high-quality lapis lazuli.
Lapis lazuli is primarily sourced from Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years. Other notable sources include Chile, Canada, Russia, and the United States. The finest lapis lazuli is characterized by a rich, deep blue color with evenly distributed golden pyrite flecks and minimal calcite veins.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire is one of the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, just below the ruby (which is also a variety of corundum). This high hardness makes sapphire extremely durable and suitable for use in a wide range of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and bracelets. The gemstone's refractive index ranges from 1.76 to 1.78, and it exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
Sapphires are available in a wide range of colors, including blue, pink, yellow, green, and even colorless. The most valuable and sought-after sapphires are those with a deep, vivid blue color. The color of a sapphire can be influenced by its chemical composition and the presence of trace elements. For example, sapphires with a blue color are primarily due to the presence of iron and titanium, while sapphires with a yellow or orange color are due to the presence of iron and chromium.
Lapis lazuli, while not as hard as sapphire, is still a relatively durable gemstone. It has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, which makes it suitable for use in jewelry, particularly in pendants and earrings. The refractive index of lapis lazuli varies depending on its composition, but it generally ranges from 1.5 to 1.7. Lapis lazuli is known for its chatoyancy, a visual effect that can create a cat's eye appearance when polished in a certain way.
Both sapphire and lapis lazuli can be found in various shapes and cuts, including round, oval, emerald, and princess cuts. These gemstones are often used in both traditional and contemporary jewelry designs, and they are valued for their beauty, durability, and symbolic significance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphire has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and protection. In ancient times, it was believed to be a stone of the heavens, and it was often used in religious and spiritual practices. The gemstone was thought to bring divine favor and to protect the wearer from harm. In medieval Europe, sapphires were believed to have healing properties and were used in the treatment of various ailments.
Sapphire is also associated with the throat chakra, which is believed to be the center of communication and self-expression. In crystal healing practices, sapphire is used to support honest communication and to encourage clarity of thought. It is also believed to promote inner peace and to help the wearer stay grounded and focused.
Lapis lazuli carries its own rich symbolism and metaphysical properties. It is often associated with truth, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was considered a sacred stone and was used in the creation of amulets and talismans. It was believed to bring protection and to enhance one's connection to the divine.
In modern crystal healing practices, lapis lazuli is used to promote emotional balance and to enhance intuition. It is also believed to help with mental clarity and to encourage self-awareness. Lapis lazuli is often used in meditation and is believed to help the wearer connect with higher spiritual realms.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of sapphire and lapis lazuli. Sapphires are relatively easy to clean and maintain due to their high hardness and durability. They can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush to remove dirt and debris. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for sapphires, but it is important to check for any inclusions or fractures that may be sensitive to the vibrations.
When storing sapphire jewelry, it is best to keep it in a soft pouch or a separate compartment to prevent scratches from harder gemstones. Avoid exposing sapphires to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the gemstone's surface.
Lapis lazuli requires a bit more care due to its lower hardness and its composition of multiple minerals. It is important to avoid exposing lapis lazuli to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone's surface. A gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.
When storing lapis lazuli, it is best to keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent any moisture from causing damage. Like sapphires, lapis lazuli should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Pricing and Buying Tips
The price of sapphire can vary greatly depending on several factors, including color, clarity, cut, and origin. Deep, vivid blue sapphires are the most valuable and sought-after, and they can command high prices, especially if they are of exceptional quality. Sapphires from notable sources such as Kashmir or Burma are particularly prized and can be quite expensive.
When purchasing a sapphire, it is important to ask about any treatments the gemstone may have undergone. Many sapphires are heat-treated to enhance their color, and this is generally considered an acceptable practice in the gemstone industry. However, it is important to be aware of any treatments and to understand how they may affect the gemstone's value and appearance.
Lapis lazuli is generally more affordable than sapphire, but its price can still vary depending on quality. High-quality lapis lazuli with a deep blue color and well-distributed pyrite flecks is more valuable than lower-quality stones with more calcite veins or uneven coloration. When purchasing lapis lazuli, it is important to look for a stone that is free of surface imperfections and has a consistent color.
When buying any gemstone, it is always a good idea to request a certificate of authenticity, especially for high-value stones. This can provide assurance that the gemstone is genuine and has not been misrepresented or altered in any way.
Conclusion
Sapphire and Lapis Lazuli are two gemstones that carry a rich history, deep symbolism, and enduring beauty. As the September birthstones, they represent the themes of wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight that are particularly relevant to those born in this month. Sapphires, with their deep blue hues and association with royalty and divinity, have been cherished for centuries across cultures. Lapis lazuli, with its celestial blue and golden flecks, adds another layer of meaning and beauty to the September birthstone tradition.
Whether worn as a personal talisman or as a meaningful gift, these gemstones continue to inspire and captivate. Their geological properties, historical significance, and spiritual associations make them not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful stones. For those born in September, the sapphire and lapis lazuli offer a connection to the past, a symbol of the present, and a guide for the future.