September is a month of transition and transformation, and its birthstones reflect this duality with elegance and depth. The official September birthstone is sapphire, a gemstone renowned for its rich blue hue and enduring symbolism of truth, wisdom, and purity. As an alternative birthstone, lapis lazuli offers a complementary yet distinct presence—its deep blue with flecks of gold and white calcite has long been revered for its spiritual resonance and calming properties. Both gems have captivated cultures for millennia, and their journey through history, geology, and symbolism reveals a fascinating interplay of natural beauty and human significance.
This article will explore the September birthstones in detail, drawing from authoritative and widely recognized sources. We will begin by tracing the historical and cultural significance of each gemstone, followed by an in-depth look at their geological origins, physical and chemical properties, and the roles they play in metaphysical traditions. We will also consider how these gems are cared for and preserved, and what makes them meaningful as symbols and gifts.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The use of gemstones in human history is as old as civilization itself. In the case of sapphire and lapis lazuli, their allure has endured across centuries and across continents. Sapphire, in particular, has a long and storied history as a symbol of royalty and divine favor.
Sapphire: A Gem of Royalty and Purity
Sapphire is one of the most revered gemstones in the world. The word "sapphire" is derived from the Latin sapphirus and the Greek sappheiros, both meaning "blue" or "precious stone." The deep blue color of the sapphire is not just visually striking—it has long been associated with nobility, truth, and spiritual insight.
Historically, sapphires have been worn by monarchs and high-ranking officials. In ancient times, sapphires were believed to protect the wearer from envy and harm. They were also thought to promote wisdom and serenity. One of the most famous historical examples is the British Crown Jewels, which include several sapphires that have been passed down through generations of the royal family.
Sapphire is also one of the zodiac birthstones for Virgo (August 23 – September 23), and it holds special significance in astrology as a stone that enhances clarity, intuition, and mental discipline.
In addition to its symbolic power, sapphire has practical applications as well. It is the second hardest gemstone after diamond, with a Mohs hardness of 9, making it highly durable and ideal for everyday wear in jewelry such as rings and bracelets.
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of the Heavens
Lapis lazuli, the alternative September birthstone, has a history that dates back thousands of years. This metamorphic rock is composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral, with flecks of pyrite (which give it a golden shimmer) and white calcite veins. Unlike sapphire, lapis lazuli is not a single mineral but a rock, and it has been used in art and jewelry for millennia.
The most famous source of lapis lazuli is Afghanistan, where it has been mined for over 6,000 years. In fact, lapis lazuli was so highly valued in ancient times that it was traded across continents, even before the rise of major civilizations in the Middle East and Europe. Egyptian pharaohs, including King Tutankhamun, were buried with lapis lazuli jewelry, and it was also used in religious and ceremonial artifacts.
Lapis lazuli is the birthstone for Libra (September 23 – October 23) and is associated with intuition, truth, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to open the third eye chakra, enhancing one’s ability to see beyond the physical and into the spiritual realm. In metaphysical traditions, lapis lazuli is also seen as a stone of protection and inner peace.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins of a gemstone provides insight into its rarity and value. Both sapphire and lapis lazuli have distinct formation processes and are found in specific geographic regions.
Formation of Sapphire
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The deep blue color of sapphire is due to trace amounts of iron and titanium impurities. While sapphires are most commonly associated with blue, they can occur in a wide range of colors, including yellow, green, pink, and even colorless. These are known as fancy sapphires, and they are equally rare and valuable.
Sapphires form under high pressure and high temperature conditions, typically in metamorphic rocks or igneous rocks such as basalt. The most famous sapphire deposits are found in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Australia, and Madagascar. However, sapphires have also been found in India, Nepal, Kenya, and the United States, particularly in Montana.
The hardness of sapphire is one of its most notable characteristics. With a Mohs hardness of 9, it is one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamond. This makes it highly resistant to scratches and ideal for use in engagement rings and other jewelry that is worn daily.
Formation of Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock, formed from the transformation of sedimentary rocks under high pressure and temperature. It is composed of several minerals, including:
- Lazurite – the blue component
- Pyrite – the golden flecks
- Calcite – the white streaks
The most valuable lapis lazuli is the one that is deep blue, with minimal calcite and a fine dispersion of pyrite. The Afghanistan deposits, particularly in the Badakhshan province, are considered the finest in the world. Other notable sources include Russia, Egypt, Brazil, and Chile.
Unlike sapphire, lapis lazuli is not a single mineral but a rock, and as such, it is generally softer and more porous. It has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, making it more delicate and requiring careful handling.
Gemological Properties
The physical and chemical properties of a gemstone determine its durability, appearance, and how it is best used in jewelry. The following sections provide a detailed comparison of the gemological properties of sapphire and lapis lazuli.
Sapphire: A Masterpiece of Nature
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9 |
| Color | Most commonly deep blue due to iron and titanium impurities; also occurs in yellow, green, pink, and colorless |
| Refractive Index | 1.76–1.78 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.95–4.03 |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Luster | Vitreous (glassy) |
| Cleavage | Basal (perfect in one direction) |
| Luminescence | Blue under UV light |
Sapphires are typically cut into brilliant shapes such as round, oval, or emerald cuts, depending on the stone’s clarity and color. High-quality sapphires are often heated to enhance their color and remove impurities, a process that is widely accepted in the gem trade.
Lapis Lazuli: A Rock of Many Colors
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | A mixture of lazurite, pyrite, and calcite |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 5–6 |
| Color | Deep blue with golden flecks of pyrite and white calcite veins |
| Refractive Index | 1.50–1.60 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.4–2.6 |
| Transparency | Opaque to translucent |
| Luster | Waxy to vitreous |
| Cleavage | None (as a rock) |
| Luminescence | None |
Because lapis lazuli is a rock rather than a single mineral, it does not have a uniform structure. It is often polished and cut into cabochons or used in mosaics and inlays. Its softness and porosity mean that it should be handled with care and avoided exposure to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Gemstones have long been associated with symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Both sapphire and lapis lazuli carry rich symbolic and spiritual traditions, particularly in relation to emotional balance, wisdom, and protection.
Sapphire: Wisdom and Purity
Sapphire is one of the most powerful gemstones in the realm of symbolism. It has been used for centuries as a stone of truth, integrity, and spiritual clarity. In ancient times, it was believed that sapphires could protect the wearer from envy and harm, and it was often used in royal regalia and sacred artifacts.
In modern metaphysical practices, sapphire is associated with the third eye chakra, which is the center of intuition and inner vision. It is believed to enhance mental focus, promote wisdom, and encourage a sense of calm and serenity. Sapphire is also said to help in making decisions with clarity and purpose, and it is often recommended for those who feel overwhelmed or lost in their lives.
Sapphire is also a stone of commitment and loyalty, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and anniversary gifts. It is the traditional gift for the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries, and star sapphire is the traditional gem for the 65th anniversary.
Lapis Lazuli: Intuition and Inner Peace
Lapis lazuli is a gemstone of spiritual insight and emotional healing. Its deep blue color has long been associated with the heavens and the divine, and it is often used in meditation and spiritual practices. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was used in religious ceremonies and as a symbol of protection and power.
In modern metaphysical traditions, lapis lazuli is believed to open the third eye chakra, enhancing intuition and psychic abilities. It is also associated with emotional balance and inner peace, helping individuals to release negative emotions and find inner clarity.
Lapis lazuli is also considered a stone of protection, particularly in times of stress or uncertainty. It is believed to enhance communication, stimulate the mind, and promote a sense of joy and optimism. It is often used in jewelry and meditation stones to support emotional and spiritual well-being.
Care and Cleaning
The care and cleaning of gemstones are essential to preserving their beauty and longevity. Because sapphire and lapis lazuli have different physical properties, they require different handling and cleaning methods.
Caring for Sapphire
Sapphire is a very durable gemstone, but it can still be damaged if exposed to harsh conditions. The following tips will help you care for your sapphire jewelry:
- Avoid exposure to high heat and sudden temperature changes, which can cause internal stress and damage.
- Store sapphires separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
- Clean sapphires with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for sapphires.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the gemstone’s surface.
- Have your sapphire jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned at least once a year to ensure its longevity.
Caring for Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is softer and more porous than sapphire, so it requires more gentle care. The following tips will help you preserve the beauty of your lapis lazuli jewelry:
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, perfumes, and lotions, as they can stain or damage the stone.
- Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can cause the stone to crack or lose its color.
- Clean lapis lazuli with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking it in water for long periods.
- Store lapis lazuli separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or high heat, which can cause the color to fade over time.
Conclusion
The September birthstones—sapphire and lapis lazuli—are more than just beautiful gems. They are symbols of wisdom, truth, and emotional balance, with a rich history that spans thousands of years. Sapphire, with its deep blue hue and extraordinary hardness, has been a symbol of royalty and spiritual clarity, while lapis lazuli, with its shimmering gold flecks and deep blue tones, has been a stone of intuition and divine connection.
Both gemstones offer unique properties and meanings, making them perfect for those born in September or for anyone seeking to connect with the energies of these powerful stones. Whether you choose sapphire for its endurance and brilliance or lapis lazuli for its soothing and spiritual qualities, you are embracing a gemstone that has been cherished for centuries.
As we continue to explore the world of birthstones, we are reminded of the deep connection between nature and human experience. The September birthstones are not just gifts of nature—they are tokens of wisdom, beauty, and transformation, offering us a glimpse into the timeless qualities of the human spirit.