September is a month rich in symbolism, associated with the transition from summer to autumn and the sowing of new seeds. It is also a month celebrated with two primary birthstones—sapphire and lapis lazuli—alongside carnelian as a lesser-known alternative. These gems, each with their own distinct history, properties, and meanings, have captivated people for centuries and continue to be cherished for their beauty and symbolism. This article explores the geological properties, historical significance, and cultural lore of these September birthstones, offering a comprehensive view of their roles in jewelry and beyond.
Introduction
September is marked by the vibrant blue of the sapphire, the rich orange-red of carnelian, and the deep blue flecked with gold of lapis lazuli. These gemstones have long been associated with wisdom, truth, and protection, and they remain popular choices for jewelry today. Sapphires, in particular, are among the most coveted gemstones in the world due to their hardness and royal associations. Carnelian and lapis lazuli, while less well-known as modern birthstones, have rich histories and spiritual significance. This article will delve into the origins, characteristics, and meanings of these September birthstones, drawing from historical accounts, gemological data, and cultural traditions.
History and Lore
The Sapphire: A Gemstone of Nobility and Faith
The sapphire has long been a symbol of nobility, truth, and faithfulness. Ancient civilizations revered the sapphire for its divine associations. In ancient Greece, people believed that sapphires offered protection from harm and envy. Some even thought that the Earth was resting on a giant sapphire, giving the sky its blue color. This belief was shared by many other cultures, including the ancient Persians, who saw the sapphire as a representation of heaven itself.
Throughout history, sapphires have been closely associated with royalty and the clergy. They were often worn by kings, queens, and religious leaders as symbols of wisdom and divine favor. In the Middle Ages, European clerics donned sapphires to signify their connection to heaven. The gemstone also gained popularity among the elite of ancient Greece and Rome, who believed it could protect its wearer from various dangers.
The sapphire's connection to royalty reached its peak in the 20th century with the famous sapphire ring worn by Princess Diana and now worn by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. The ring features a 12-carat Ceylon sapphire, surrounded by 14 diamonds, and has become one of the most iconic pieces of royal jewelry in history.
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of the Ancients
Lapis lazuli, another September birthstone, has a similarly storied history. This deep blue stone, often flecked with golden pyrite and white calcite, was once a treasure of ancient royalty. It was used to decorate the sarcophagus of Pharaoh Tutankhamun and the palace of Catherine the Great in Russia. Lapis lazuli was believed to promote mental clarity, serenity, and self-mastery, making it a prized possession among the elite.
In ancient times, lapis lazuli was not only a decorative gem but also a symbol of spiritual enlightenment. It was used in religious ceremonies and was believed to connect its wearer to the heavens. The stone's association with the stars and the cosmos has endured, and it is still considered a powerful gem in many spiritual traditions.
Carnelian: A Stone of Vitality and Abundance
Carnelian, the third gemstone associated with September, is a vibrant orange-red stone that was often used for cameos and seals in ancient times. Known for its ability to promote vitality, confidence, and abundance, carnelian was believed to bring good fortune to those who carried it. It was also thought to have the power to cleanse other stones, making it a popular choice for those seeking to enhance their spiritual practices.
The name "carnelian" comes from the Latin word carneus, meaning "flesh-like," referring to its rich, warm color. While it is not as durable as sapphire, carnelian has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in certain types of jewelry. Historically, carnelian was placed near the entrance of homes to welcome good fortune and prosperity.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires: The Durable Blue Gem
Sapphires are a type of corundum, which is the same mineral family as ruby. Corundum is composed primarily of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) and is known for its hardness, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale. Sapphires are formed deep within the Earth's crust under high heat and pressure. Trace elements such as chromium, titanium, vanadium, iron, and magnesium give sapphires their various colors, including blue, pink, yellow, and even black.
The most sought-after sapphires are the deep blue varieties, often referred to as "cornflower blue." These sapphires are typically found in countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and Australia. Sri Lanka, in particular, is known for producing high-quality Ceylon sapphires, which are prized for their clarity and color.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of the Stars
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed mainly of lazurite, a sodium calcium aluminum silicate. It is also composed of other minerals, including pyrite and calcite, which give the stone its characteristic golden flecks and white streaks. The highest quality lapis lazuli is found in Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years. Other sources include Russia, Canada, and the United States.
Lapis lazuli is not as hard as sapphire, with a hardness of between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale. This means that it is more susceptible to scratches and damage, and it should be handled with care. Despite its lower hardness, lapis lazuli remains a popular choice for jewelry and decorative objects due to its striking appearance and historical significance.
Carnelian: A Durable Orange-Red Gem
Carnelian is a variety of chalcedony, a form of quartz, and is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). It is typically found in volcanic rocks and is formed when silica-rich water seeps into cavities and deposits layers of quartz. Carnelian is known for its warm orange-red color, which is caused by trace amounts of iron. It is often found in countries such as Brazil, India, and the United States.
With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, carnelian is a durable gemstone that is suitable for a wide range of jewelry styles. It is particularly well-suited for rings, pendants, and bracelets, and it is often carved into intricate designs due to its fine grain and smooth texture.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Color Variations | Transparency | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sapphire | Al₂O₃ with trace elements | 9 | Blue, pink, yellow, orange, black | Transparent to translucent | Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia |
| Lapis Lazuli | Lazurite, pyrite, calcite | 5–6 | Deep blue with golden pyrite and white calcite | Opaque | Afghanistan, Russia, Canada, U.S. |
| Carnelian | SiO₂ (quartz) | 7 | Orange-red, pink, brown | Translucent | Brazil, India, U.S. |
These gemstones vary in hardness, transparency, and composition, making each suitable for different types of jewelry and uses. Sapphires are among the hardest gemstones after diamonds and are ideal for engagement rings and other everyday wear. Lapis lazuli, while softer, is prized for its unique appearance and spiritual significance. Carnelian, with its warm color and moderate hardness, is a versatile gemstone that is easy to work with and well-suited for a variety of jewelry styles.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphires: Wisdom, Nobility, and Divine Protection
Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom, nobility, and divine protection. In ancient Greece, sapphires were believed to offer their wearers safety from harm and envy. The gemstone was also thought to symbolize heaven, and many cultures believed that the Earth was resting on a giant sapphire, giving the sky its blue color.
In medieval Europe, sapphires were believed to have healing powers. They were used to treat plague boils and diseases of the eye and were thought to be an antidote to poison. Sapphires were also considered a symbol of truth and faithfulness, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and other meaningful jewelry.
Lapis Lazuli: Clarity, Serenity, and Spiritual Connection
Lapis lazuli is believed to promote mental clarity, serenity, and self-mastery. It has long been associated with the stars and heavens, and many cultures believe that it connects its wearer to the divine. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was used in religious ceremonies and was believed to enhance spiritual awareness. It was also used as a symbol of royalty and was worn by pharaohs and other high-ranking officials.
In modern metaphysical practices, lapis lazuli is thought to stimulate the throat and third eye chakras, promoting communication and intuition. It is also believed to help reduce stress and anxiety, making it a popular choice for meditation and spiritual practices.
Carnelian: Confidence, Abundance, and Vitality
Carnelian is associated with confidence, abundance, and vitality. It is believed to promote courage and self-assurance, making it a popular choice for those who need a boost in their personal or professional lives. Carnelian is also thought to attract good fortune and prosperity, and it is often placed near the entrance of homes to welcome positive energy.
In some traditions, carnelian is believed to have the power to cleanse other stones, making it a valuable tool for spiritual practitioners. It is also thought to stimulate the sacral chakra, promoting creativity, passion, and emotional balance.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphires: Durable and Easy to Maintain
Sapphires are among the hardest gemstones and are resistant to heat, light, and chemicals. They can be worn daily without fear of damage, making them ideal for engagement rings and other high-wear jewelry. To clean sapphires, use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. A ultrasonic cleaner can also be used, but it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can scratch or damage the gemstone.
Lapis Lazuli: Gentle Handling for Longevity
Lapis lazuli is not as hard as sapphire and requires more careful handling. It is sensitive to heat, chemicals, and abrasives, so it should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause the stone to crack or lose its luster. Lapis lazuli should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Carnelian: Durable and Easy to Clean
Carnelian is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can dull the stone's surface. Carnelian can also be used in an ultrasonic cleaner, but it is important to check that the cleaner is suitable for quartz-based gemstones.
Conclusion
September is a month rich in symbolism and beauty, represented by the sapphire, carnelian, and lapis lazuli. These gemstones each have their own unique properties, histories, and meanings, making them valuable not only as jewelry but also as symbols of wisdom, confidence, and spiritual connection. Whether you are drawn to the deep blue of the sapphire, the warm orange-red of carnelian, or the cosmic blue of lapis lazuli, these September birthstones offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of gemology and the enduring appeal of precious stones.