The tradition of associating gemstones with the months of the year is a rich and enduring one, weaving together history, mythology, and the natural world into a tapestry of symbolism and beauty. Among the many birthstones recognized today, two stand out for their distinct allure and cultural significance: the September birthstone, sapphire, and the March birthstone, aquamarine. These gemstones have captivated human imagination for centuries, each with a unique set of properties, origins, and symbolic meanings. This article explores the geological, historical, and cultural dimensions of sapphires and aquamarines, offering a comprehensive overview of their roles as birthstones and their broader significance in the world of gemology.
History and Lore
The practice of assigning gemstones to months of the year dates back to ancient times, with roots in religious and cultural traditions. One of the earliest references comes from the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus in the Bible. This sacred artifact featured 12 stones, each believed to represent one of the 12 tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones were associated with the months of the year and the zodiac signs, forming the foundation for the modern birthstone tradition.
The custom of assigning specific gemstones to months became more widespread in the 16th century, particularly in Poland, where the practice of wearing a gemstone corresponding to one’s birth month began to take hold. This tradition was later popularized in the West by renowned jewelers such as Tiffany & Co., who in 1870 launched a campaign to associate each month with a specific gemstone, further cementing the practice in global culture.
September Birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphire, the birthstone for September, has a long and illustrious history that spans across continents and centuries. Known for its deep blue hue, sapphire has been a symbol of royalty, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment. In ancient times, sapphires were believed to offer protection against envy and harm, and they were often worn by monarchs and high priests to signify divine favor. The stone was also associated with the heavens, with the word "sapphire" itself derived from the Latin "sapphirus," meaning "blue."
In medieval Europe, sapphires were thought to promote truth and sincerity, making them a favored choice for rings and other ceremonial jewelry. The gemstone’s enduring popularity is also reflected in its use in royal weddings and coronations, where it has been a recurring motif in the jewelry of European royalty.
Sapphire has also played a significant role in Eastern traditions. In ancient India, sapphires were believed to bring good fortune and were often used in religious rituals. In China, sapphires were associated with immortality and were considered a symbol of wisdom and purity.
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
Aquamarine, the birthstone for March, has a history that is equally rich and storied. The name "aquamarine" comes from the Latin words "aqua," meaning water, and "marinus," meaning sea, a reference to its color, which resembles the blue-green hues of the ocean. In ancient times, aquamarine was believed to be a protective stone for sailors, who carried it on their journeys to ward off the dangers of the sea. The Greeks and Romans also believed that aquamarine could calm the seas and protect against drowning.
In medieval Europe, aquamarine was associated with youth and vitality. It was believed to have healing properties and was used in remedies for various ailments. The stone was also thought to bring happiness and courage to those who wore it, making it a popular choice for wedding jewelry and other celebratory occasions.
Aquamarine has also been a symbol of love and loyalty. In ancient traditions, it was believed that the stone could strengthen relationships and foster deep emotional connections. Its calming properties made it a favored gemstone for those seeking inner peace and balance.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological origins of sapphires and aquamarines are as fascinating as their histories. Both gemstones are formed under specific conditions deep within the Earth’s crust, where heat and pressure combine to create their unique properties and colors.
September Birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is the same mineral that forms ruby when it contains chromium. Corundum is one of the hardest minerals on Earth, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, just below diamond. Sapphires are typically found in metamorphic rocks, such as gneiss and schist, which are formed through the transformation of existing rock types under intense heat and pressure. The blue color of sapphire is primarily due to the presence of trace amounts of iron and titanium.
The most famous sources of sapphires are found in Sri Lanka, Myanmar (Burma), and Kashmir. Sapphires from Kashmir are particularly prized for their rich, velvety blue color and are considered some of the finest in the world. Other notable sources include Thailand, Madagascar, and Australia. Sapphires are also found in the United States, particularly in Montana and North Carolina.
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl, which is a beryllium aluminum silicate. Beryl forms in pegmatite rocks, which are igneous rocks that cool slowly and allow large crystals to form. The blue-green color of aquamarine is due to the presence of iron in the crystal structure. The intensity of the color can vary, with the most valuable aquamarines displaying a deep, vibrant blue-green hue.
The primary sources of aquamarine are found in Brazil, which is the largest producer of the gemstone. Other notable sources include Nigeria, Zambia, and the United States, particularly in Colorado and California. The most famous aquamarine deposits are located in the pegmatite mines of Brazil, where the gemstone is often found in large, high-quality crystals.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of sapphires and aquamarines are what make them so highly valued in the world of jewelry and gemology. These properties include their hardness, color, clarity, and refractive index, which all contribute to their beauty and durability.
September Birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphire is one of the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. This high hardness makes it highly resistant to scratches and wear, making it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry. Sapphires can be found in a wide range of colors, including blue, pink, yellow, green, and even colorless, although blue is the most well-known and valuable.
The refractive index of sapphire ranges from 1.76 to 1.78, which gives it a brilliant luster and excellent light dispersion. Sapphires can also exhibit pleochroism, meaning they can display different colors when viewed from different angles. The most valuable sapphires are those that are free of inclusions and have a rich, even color.
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
Aquamarine has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it slightly less hard than sapphire but still durable enough for everyday wear. The gemstone has a refractive index of 1.57 to 1.58, which gives it a clear, glassy appearance. Aquamarines are typically transparent to translucent and can exhibit a range of colors from pale blue to deep blue-green.
The most valuable aquamarines are those with a strong, even color and minimal inclusions. Large, well-formed crystals are also highly prized, as they are rare and difficult to find in nature. Aquamarine is also known for its ability to absorb and transmit light, which gives it a luminous quality when cut and polished.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with sapphires and aquamarines are as varied and rich as their histories. Both gemstones have been attributed with various powers and meanings across different cultures and eras.
September Birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom, truth, and spiritual enlightenment. In ancient times, they were believed to protect the wearer from harm and bring good fortune. Sapphires were also thought to promote clarity of thought and enhance one’s ability to make sound decisions. The gemstone was believed to be a symbol of divine favor and was often used in religious ceremonies and rituals.
In medieval Europe, sapphires were associated with the heavens and were believed to be the stone of the sky. They were also thought to promote loyalty and fidelity, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and other romantic jewelry. Sapphires were also believed to have healing properties and were used in remedies for various ailments, particularly those affecting the eyes and skin.
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
Aquamarine has been associated with the sea and the power of water for centuries. In ancient times, it was believed to protect sailors and fishermen from the dangers of the ocean. The gemstone was also thought to promote calmness and tranquility, making it a popular choice for those seeking peace and balance. Aquamarine was also believed to have healing properties and was used in remedies for various ailments, particularly those affecting the throat and voice.
In medieval Europe, aquamarine was associated with youth and vitality. It was believed to bring happiness and courage to those who wore it, making it a popular choice for wedding jewelry and other celebratory occasions. The gemstone was also thought to promote love and loyalty, making it a favored choice for romantic jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of sapphires and aquamarines. Due to their hardness and durability, both gemstones are relatively easy to care for, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind.
September Birthstone: Sapphire
Sapphires are highly durable and can withstand normal wear and tear. However, they can still be damaged if exposed to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. It is recommended to clean sapphires with mild soap and warm water, using a soft brush to gently remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, as they can damage the gemstone or its setting.
When storing sapphires, it is best to keep them in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches and damage. Sapphires should also be removed before engaging in activities that could cause them to be subjected to impact or pressure, such as sports or heavy lifting.
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
Aquamarine is also relatively durable, but it is slightly less hard than sapphire. It is important to avoid exposing aquamarine to high temperatures, as it can cause the gemstone to lose its color or become brittle. It is also recommended to avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning aquamarine, as they can damage the gemstone or its setting.
To clean aquamarine, use mild soap and warm water, and gently brush the surface with a soft brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can cause the gemstone to crack or become damaged. When storing aquamarine, keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent exposure to excessive heat or moisture.
Conclusion
The September and March birthstones, sapphire and aquamarine, are two of the most beautiful and meaningful gemstones in the world. Each has a rich history, unique geological properties, and deep cultural significance. Sapphires, with their deep blue hues and association with wisdom and royalty, have been cherished for centuries. Aquamarines, with their ocean-like colors and calming properties, have also been valued for their beauty and symbolic meanings.
Whether worn as jewelry or kept as collectibles, these gemstones continue to inspire and captivate people around the world. Their enduring appeal is a testament to the timeless allure of gemstones and the traditions that surround them.