The month of September is associated with a diverse array of gemstones, each with its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. While blue sapphire is widely recognized as the modern birthstone for September, the month also has several other traditional and cultural birthstones, including lapis lazuli, peridot, sardonyx, zircon, moonstone, and agate. These gemstones reflect the rich historical and cultural tapestry of September and offer a wide range of colors and properties that make them valuable both in terms of gemology and symbolism.
This article will explore the key characteristics of the September birthstones, focusing on their geological properties, historical significance, and the metaphysical beliefs associated with them. We will begin by examining the primary modern birthstone, blue sapphire, followed by the alternative birthstone, lapis lazuli, and then delve into the traditional and ancient gemstones of September.
History and Lore
The association of gemstones with specific months of the year dates back to ancient times, with roots in various cultural and religious traditions. The September birthstones have been recognized in different calendars and cultures, each assigning unique meanings and properties to these gems.
Blue sapphire has long been a symbol of nobility, truth, and faithfulness. In ancient Greece and Rome, sapphires were believed to protect their owners from harm and envy. The elite of these civilizations often adorned themselves with sapphires, and the gemstone was also favored by clergymen during the Middle Ages, who wore it because it symbolized Heaven. Ancient Persians even believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire, which gave the sky its blue color.
Lapis lazuli, another prominent September birthstone, has a similarly storied history. Used since antiquity, lapis lazuli was highly valued in ancient Egypt, where it was ground into pigment for cosmetics and wall paintings. It was also considered a sacred stone and was associated with the night sky and the cosmos. The stone's deep blue color, often flecked with gold, was believed to enhance awareness and creativity.
Peridot, sardonyx, zircon, moonstone, and agate each have their own historical significance as traditional or ancient September birthstones. Peridot, for example, has been used in jewelry and amulets for thousands of years, with its green to yellow hues believed to offer protection from negativity. Sardonyx was favored by Roman soldiers for its purported ability to enhance courage, while zircon and moonstone were both valued in ancient Hindu traditions for their calming and protective qualities.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins and sources of the September birthstones provides insight into their physical and chemical properties. These gemstones are formed through various natural processes and can be found in specific regions of the world.
Blue Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum (Al₂O₃), which is composed of aluminum oxide. The deep blue color of sapphire is primarily due to trace amounts of iron and titanium within the crystal structure. Sapphires can be found in various colors, but blue sapphires are the most famous and widely recognized. These gems are mined in several countries, including Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Thailand, Madagascar, and Australia. The quality and color of sapphires can vary depending on their source, with some of the most prized stones coming from Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite (Na,Ca)₈(Al,Si)₆O₂₀(S,SO₄)₁₋₂·(OH,S)₀·₁₆–₀·₁₈, along with other minerals such as pyrite and calcite. The deep blue color of lapis lazuli comes from lazurite, while the golden flecks are due to pyrite. This gemstone is primarily mined in Afghanistan, which is the most well-known source for high-quality lapis lazuli. It is also found in smaller quantities in Russia, Chile, Canada, and the United States.
Peridot is a gem-quality form of the mineral olivine, which is composed of magnesium iron silicate (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. The green to yellow color of peridot is due to the presence of iron within the crystal structure. Peridot is found in various locations around the world, including Arizona, Brazil, Myanmar, and China. One of the most unique sources of peridot is the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, where the gem is sometimes referred to as "the emerald of the Nile."
Sardonyx is a type of onyx that features alternating bands of red (sard) and white or yellow (onyx) colors. It is a form of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline quartz mineral. Sardonyx is formed through the deposition of silica-rich solutions in cavities and fissures within rocks. The red color of sardonyx is due to the presence of iron oxide, while the white or yellow bands are due to the presence of silica. Sardonyx is found in several countries, including India, Brazil, and the United States.
Zircon is a silicate mineral composed of zirconium, silicon, and oxygen (ZrSiO₄). Zircon is available in a wide range of colors, including blue, green, yellow, and red. The blue variety of zircon is particularly popular and is often used as a substitute for diamonds. Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Cambodia, Vietnam, and Brazil.
Moonstone is a type of feldspar that is composed of alternating layers of orthoclase and albite. These layers cause the characteristic "glow" that is often seen in moonstone. Moonstone is found in several countries, including India, Sri Lanka, and the United States. The stone's milky white to gray color is often enhanced by the presence of iridescent flashes.
Agate is a banded form of chalcedony and is composed of microcrystalline quartz. Agate is found in various colors and patterns and is often used in jewelry and decorative objects. Agate is found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, India, and the United States.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of the September birthstones are as diverse as their historical significance. Each gemstone has unique physical and chemical characteristics that contribute to its beauty and durability.
Blue Sapphire is one of the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes it highly resistant to scratches and suitable for use in everyday jewelry. Sapphires are also known for their high refractive index, which gives them a brilliant sparkle. The clarity of sapphires can vary, with some stones being nearly flawless and others containing inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. The most valuable sapphires are those with a deep, rich blue color and high clarity.
Lapis Lazuli is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more susceptible to scratches and damage compared to harder gemstones like sapphire. Lapis lazuli is also porous, which means it can absorb oils and dirt over time. The color of lapis lazuli can vary from deep blue to lighter shades, with the most valuable stones featuring a rich blue color and golden flecks of pyrite.
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than lapis lazuli but less durable than sapphire. Peridot is also known for its high refractive index, which gives it a bright, lively appearance. The color of peridot can range from green to yellow, with the most valuable stones having a rich green color.
Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone. The alternating bands of red and white or yellow give sardonyx a distinctive appearance, and the stone is often used in intaglios and cameos. Sardonyx is also known for its ability to take a high polish, which enhances its beauty.
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. The blue variety of zircon is particularly popular and is often used as a substitute for diamonds.
Moonstone has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively soft gemstone. The characteristic "glow" of moonstone is due to the alternating layers of orthoclase and albite within the stone. Moonstone is often used in jewelry and is known for its ability to take a high polish.
Agate has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone. Agate is known for its banded patterns and is often used in jewelry and decorative objects. Agate is also known for its ability to take a high polish, which enhances its beauty.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The September birthstones have been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs throughout history. These beliefs vary across cultures and time periods but often reflect the unique properties and appearances of the gemstones.
Blue Sapphire has long been associated with truth, sincerity, and purity. In ancient times, sapphires were believed to protect their owners from harm and envy. They were also believed to enhance wisdom and intellect. In medieval Europe, sapphires were thought to cure diseases of the eye and were considered an antidote to poison. Today, sapphires are still associated with these properties and are often used in jewelry as a symbol of nobility and faithfulness.
Lapis Lazuli has been associated with awareness, creativity, and spiritual insight. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was used in cosmetics and wall paintings and was considered a sacred stone. It was also associated with the night sky and the cosmos. In medieval times, lapis lazuli was believed to enhance wisdom and was used in jewelry and amulets.
Peridot has been associated with protection from negativity and the enhancement of courage. In ancient times, peridot was believed to offer protection from evil spirits and was used in amulets and talismans. It was also believed to enhance vitality and was used in jewelry and decorative objects.
Sardonyx has been associated with courage and valor. In ancient Rome, sardonyx was worn by soldiers to enhance their courage and was believed to offer protection in battle. It was also believed to enhance eloquence and was used in jewelry and amulets.
Zircon has been associated with peace of mind and prosperity. In ancient Hindu traditions, zircon was believed to bring peace of mind and was used in jewelry and amulets. It was also believed to enhance wisdom and was used in decorative objects.
Moonstone has been associated with security and the relief of anxiety. In ancient Hindu traditions, moonstone was believed to offer protection and was used in jewelry and amulets. It was also believed to enhance intuition and was used in decorative objects.
Agate has been associated with intelligence and eloquence. In ancient Tibet, agate was believed to enhance intelligence and was used in jewelry and amulets. It was also believed to offer protection and was used in decorative objects.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning of the September birthstones are essential to maintain their beauty and longevity. Each gemstone has specific care requirements based on its physical properties.
Blue Sapphire is a relatively durable gemstone and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It should be avoided using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Sapphire should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Lapis Lazuli is a relatively soft gemstone and should be handled with care. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap but should be avoided using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners. Lapis lazuli should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches and should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Peridot is a relatively durable gemstone and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It should be avoided using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Peridot should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Sardonyx is a relatively durable gemstone and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It should be avoided using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Sardonyx should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Zircon is a relatively durable gemstone and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It should be avoided using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Zircon should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Moonstone is a relatively soft gemstone and should be handled with care. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap but should be avoided using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners. Moonstone should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches and should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Agate is a relatively durable gemstone and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It should be avoided using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Agate should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Conclusion
The September birthstones offer a rich and diverse array of gemstones, each with its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. From the deep blue of sapphire to the golden flecks of lapis lazuli, these gems reflect the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Whether used in jewelry, amulets, or decorative objects, the September birthstones continue to be valued for their beauty, durability, and symbolic significance. Understanding the geological properties, historical significance, and care requirements of these gemstones allows us to appreciate their enduring appeal and cultural importance.