September is a month rich in symbolism, marked by the transition from summer to autumn and the deepening of the colors in both nature and the gemstone world. Among the most celebrated symbols of September are its two birthstones: the blue sapphire and lapis lazuli. These stones are not only admired for their beauty but also revered for their historical significance, metaphysical properties, and their role in both Western and Eastern traditions. This article explores the origins, geological properties, cultural significance, and care requirements of September’s birthstones, providing a comprehensive overview for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
Introduction
September is the only month in the modern Western birthstone tradition to have two official gemstones: sapphire and lapis lazuli. The blue sapphire, one of the four classic precious gemstones alongside diamond, ruby, and emerald, is widely regarded as the primary birthstone for September, while lapis lazuli serves as an alternative. Both gemstones are associated with deep blue tones, a color that has long symbolized wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight across various cultures.
The September birthstone is also linked to the zodiac signs of Virgo (August 23 to September 22) and Libra (September 23 to October 22). Sapphires are connected to Virgo, while lapis lazuli is associated with Libra. These associations highlight the stones’ roles in supporting the traits and energies of these zodiac signs, such as clarity of thought, loyalty, and diplomatic balance.
This article delves into the history and lore of September’s birthstones, their geological formation and sources, their gemological properties, their symbolic and metaphysical meanings, and practical care tips for preserving their beauty.
History and Lore
The Ancient Roots of Sapphire
Sapphires have been cherished for thousands of years, with their use dating back to ancient civilizations. The word "sapphire" is derived from the Latin sapphirus and the Greek sappheiros, both of which mean "blue" or "precious stone." In ancient Greece and Rome, sapphires were believed to have protective and healing properties. They were often worn as talismans to ward off evil and to promote wisdom and divine favor.
Sapphires were also highly valued in the Middle East and Asia. In medieval Europe, the gem was associated with the heavens and was thought to be a stone of divine favor. It was commonly used in religious artifacts and royal regalia. The deep blue color of sapphire was believed to represent the celestial sphere, and wearing the stone was considered a way to gain insight and spiritual clarity.
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of Kings and Priests
Lapis lazuli, the alternative September birthstone, has an equally storied history. Known for its striking deep blue color with flecks of gold and white, lapis lazuli has been used since at least 6000 BCE. Ancient Egyptians, including the famous pharaoh Tutankhamun, used lapis lazuli for jewelry, amulets, and even as a pigment in eye makeup. The Egyptians referred to the stone as the "stone of the gods," believing it to bring protection and divine favor.
In Mesopotamia and later in Persia, lapis lazuli was associated with wisdom and truth. It was often used in the adornment of high priests and royalty, symbolizing their elevated status and connection to the divine. In medieval Europe, lapis lazuli was used in the creation of pigments for religious manuscripts, particularly for the blue of the Virgin Mary's robes.
The Modern Recognition of Sapphires and Lapis Lazuli
The modern designation of sapphire as the primary birthstone for September can be traced to the 20th century. In 1912, the American National Association of Jewelers (now the Jewelers of America) established the modern birthstone list, which included sapphire for September. Lapis lazuli was later included as an alternative in the British and some European traditions.
Sapphires have also been recognized for their connection to the zodiac sign of Virgo. Virgo is associated with practicality, analytical thinking, and attention to detail—qualities that are believed to be enhanced by the properties of sapphire. Lapis lazuli, on the other hand, is linked to Libra, a sign known for its diplomatic nature and pursuit of balance and harmony.
Geological Formation and Sources
Formation of Sapphires
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum (Al₂O₃), which is composed of aluminum oxide. The deep blue color of sapphires is typically due to trace amounts of iron and titanium. The formation of sapphires occurs under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's crust, often in metamorphic rocks or igneous rocks such as basalt.
The process of sapphire formation involves the crystallization of corundum in molten rock (magma) or in metamorphic rock under intense heat and pressure. The presence of certain trace elements determines the final color of the gemstone. In the case of blue sapphires, the interaction of iron and titanium during the crystallization process results in the characteristic blue hue.
Major Sources of Sapphires
Sapphires are found in several countries around the world, with the most notable sources including:
- Sri Lanka: Known for producing high-quality blue sapphires, Sri Lanka has a long history of sapphire mining.
- Afghanistan: The Badakhshan region is a historic source of some of the finest sapphires in the world.
- Myanmar (Burma): Burmese sapphires, particularly those from the Mogok region, are renowned for their intense blue color and high quality.
- Australia: Australian sapphires are often treated with heat to enhance their color and clarity.
- Madagascar and Thailand: These countries are also significant producers of sapphires, with Madagascar being a notable source of large, rough stones.
Formation of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a sodium calcium aluminum silicate. The stone's deep blue color comes from the presence of lazurite, while the golden flecks are due to pyrite, and the white areas are typically calcite. Lapis lazuli forms through the metamorphism of sedimentary rocks, often in regions where volcanic activity has occurred.
The formation of lapis lazuli involves the transformation of existing rock under high pressure and temperature, leading to the development of the characteristic blue color and the interplay of minerals that give the stone its unique appearance.
Major Sources of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is most commonly found in the following regions:
- Afghanistan: The Sar-e-Sang mine in Afghanistan is the most famous and historically significant source of lapis lazuli. The mine has been in operation for over 6,000 years and continues to produce high-quality material.
- Bolivia: Lapis lazuli from Bolivia is known for its rich blue color and high-quality composition.
- Russia and Chile: These countries also have notable deposits of lapis lazuli, though the quality and quantity are generally lower than in Afghanistan and Bolivia.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires: The King of Gemstones
Sapphires are among the hardest and most durable gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamond. This high hardness makes sapphires ideal for use in jewelry, as they can withstand daily wear and are less prone to scratching or chipping.
Key Properties of Sapphires:
- Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Typically deep blue, though sapphires can occur in a wide range of colors, including pink (known as ruby), yellow, green, and colorless
- Chemical Composition: Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃)
- Refractive Index: 1.76–1.78
- Specific Gravity: 3.95–4.10
- Luster: Vitreous (glassy)
- Crystal System: Hexagonal
Sapphires are often heat-treated to enhance their color and clarity, a process that is widely accepted in the gemstone industry. Some sapphires may also be treated with beryllium diffusion to alter their color.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Depth and Complexity
Lapis lazuli is not a single mineral but a rock composed of several minerals, the most important being lazurite, which gives the stone its deep blue color. The presence of other minerals such as pyrite and calcite adds to the stone's visual complexity and unique appearance.
Key Properties of Lapis Lazuli:
- Hardness: 5–6 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Deep blue with flecks of gold (pyrite) and white (calcite)
- Chemical Composition: Lazurite (NaCa₂Al₃Si₃O₁₂S)
- Refractive Index: 1.50–1.65
- Specific Gravity: 2.4–2.9
- Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous
- Crystal System: Not applicable (rock, not a single mineral)
Lapis lazuli is relatively soft compared to sapphire, and as such, it requires more careful handling and cleaning. It is not typically heat-treated, as this can damage the stone and alter its color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphires: Stones of Wisdom and Clarity
Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom, truth, and clarity. In ancient times, sapphires were believed to have protective properties and were worn by royalty and scholars to enhance their intelligence and insight. The deep blue color of sapphires is often linked to the sky and the sea, symbolizing depth, mystery, and the infinite.
Sapphires are also associated with loyalty and commitment, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and other symbolic jewelry. In medieval Europe, sapphires were used in religious artifacts and were believed to promote spiritual purity and divine favor.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Transformation and Harmony
Lapis lazuli is often referred to as the "stone of transformation." It is believed to enhance self-awareness, promote inner truth, and encourage emotional healing. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was used to aid in communication with the gods and to protect the wearer from negative energies.
The stone is also associated with balance and harmony, particularly in relation to the zodiac sign of Libra. It is believed to support diplomatic skills, enhance creativity, and promote a sense of calm and centeredness.
In modern metaphysical practices, lapis lazuli is used to stimulate the third eye chakra, which is associated with intuition, insight, and spiritual awareness. It is also used to relieve stress and anxiety and to encourage a more positive outlook.
Care and Cleaning
Caring for Sapphires
Due to their high hardness and durability, sapphires are relatively easy to care for. However, they can still be damaged by harsh chemicals, extreme heat, and sudden temperature changes.
Care Tips for Sapphires:
- Cleaning: Clean sapphires with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners if the sapphire has been treated with beryllium diffusion or other methods.
- Storage: Store sapphires separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Use a soft cloth or jewelry box with individual compartments.
- Avoid Exposure to Harsh Chemicals: Remove sapphire jewelry before using household cleaners, swimming in chlorinated pools, or applying lotions and perfumes.
Caring for Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli requires more delicate care due to its lower hardness and sensitivity to acids and abrasives.
Care Tips for Lapis Lazuli:
- Cleaning: Wipe lapis lazuli with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using water for prolonged periods or soaking the stone, as this can cause the pyrite to tarnish or the calcite to dissolve.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Lapis lazuli is sensitive to acids, so avoid using harsh cleaners or perfumes near the stone.
- Storage: Store lapis lazuli in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause the color to fade.
Conclusion
The September birthstones—sapphire and lapis lazuli—are more than just beautiful gemstones; they are symbols of wisdom, truth, and transformation. Sapphires, with their deep blue hues and extraordinary hardness, have been revered for centuries for their strength and clarity. Lapis lazuli, with its rich blue color and golden flecks, has been used by ancient civilizations as a stone of protection and insight.
Both gemstones have played significant roles in history, from the royal courts of ancient Egypt to the zodiac traditions of modern times. Whether chosen for their beauty, their symbolism, or their connection to the zodiac signs of Virgo and Libra, sapphires and lapis lazuli continue to captivate and inspire.
For those born in September, wearing a sapphire or lapis lazuli can be a meaningful way to connect with the qualities associated with these gemstones—wisdom, loyalty, balance, and inner truth. With proper care and appreciation, these stones can be cherished for generations, continuing their legacy as symbols of September and the enduring power of gemstones.