Gemstones have long captivated human imagination with their beauty, symbolism, and scientific intrigue. Among the most cherished are the birthstones associated with specific months of the year. In this article, we explore the September and May birthstones—sapphire and emerald—by examining their gemological properties, historical significance, cultural lore, sources, and care requirements. Drawing from authoritative and reliable sources, we present a comprehensive overview of these two iconic gemstones, offering insights into their enduring appeal in jewelry and beyond.
The September Birthstone: Sapphire
History and Lore
Sapphire, the birthstone of September, has a rich and storied history that dates back to ancient civilizations. Its name is derived from the Latin word sapphirus, meaning "blue." In medieval Europe, sapphires were believed to have healing powers, particularly for the eyes and plague-related ailments. It was also thought to act as an antidote to poison, a belief that contributed to its popularity among royalty and nobility.
Sapphires have long been associated with wisdom, purity, and protection. In medieval times, they were considered symbols of divine favor and were often worn by clergy and monarchs. One of the most famous sapphires is the 62.02-carat Rockefeller Sapphire, originally from Myanmar (Burma) and acquired by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in 1934. This gem has a storied history, having been recut and remounted over the years, eventually finding its way into a ring set with two cut-cornered triangular diamond side stones.
Another globally recognized sapphire is the 12-carat blue gem worn by Princess Diana and later by Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. This sapphire engagement ring, surrounded by diamonds, has become an enduring symbol of elegance and romantic tradition.
Sapphires have also held a place in ancient lore and mythology. In ancient Greece, sapphires were thought to be the gem of the gods, and in India, they were considered sacred to the planet Saturn. The gemstone's deep blue hue has been interpreted across cultures as a reflection of the heavens, making it a powerful symbol of spirituality and transcendence.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The blue color of sapphires is typically due to trace amounts of iron and titanium. While sapphires are most commonly blue, they can also occur in a range of other colors, including pink, yellow, green, and purple. These variations are often referred to as "fancy sapphires."
Historically significant sources of sapphire include:
- Kashmir: Known for producing some of the finest sapphires in the world, Kashmir sapphires are characterized by their velvety blue color and excellent transparency. These gems are highly prized in the jewelry trade.
- Myanmar (Burma): One of the oldest and most well-known sources of sapphires, particularly the deep blue stones that have been favored by collectors and jewelers for centuries.
- Sri Lanka: A major source of high-quality sapphires, Sri Lanka has a long history of gemstone mining and trade.
- Thailand: An important center for sapphire cutting and treatment, Thailand also produces its own sapphires in regions like Chanthaburi Province.
- Australia: Known for producing a unique pink sapphire called "padparadscha."
- Cambodia, Madagascar, and the United States (Montana): These countries have also emerged as significant sapphire sources in recent decades.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are among the hardest natural gemstones, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes them highly durable and suitable for everyday wear in rings, bracelets, and other jewelry. They have excellent toughness and no cleavage, meaning they are resistant to breakage when struck. Sapphires also have a high refractive index, which contributes to their brilliance and fire.
Common treatments for sapphires include:
- Heat Treatment: The most common and widely accepted method for enhancing sapphire color and clarity. Heat treatment can improve the gem’s color by removing unwanted hues or enhancing the blue tone.
- Lattice Diffusion: A less common treatment that introduces color into the outer layers of the stone. This treatment can produce striking colors but is not as durable as heat treatment.
- Fracture Filling and Dyeing: These methods are used to improve the appearance of lower-quality sapphires but are less stable and require special care.
When purchasing a sapphire, it is essential to inquire about any treatments the gem may have undergone. This information affects both the value and the care requirements of the stone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphires have long been associated with positive attributes such as wisdom, loyalty, and protection. In ancient times, they were believed to promote spiritual insight and emotional clarity. In medieval Europe, sapphires were worn to ward off envy and harm, particularly in the form of evil eye amulets.
Modern metaphysical beliefs continue to attribute sapphires with calming and centering properties. They are said to enhance communication, promote inner peace, and support decision-making. Sapphires are also considered stones of truth and integrity, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and other meaningful jewelry pieces.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their high hardness and durability, sapphires are relatively easy to care for. A simple cleaning with warm, soapy water is usually sufficient to maintain their brilliance. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated sapphires.
However, special care is required for sapphires that have been treated with fracture filling or dyeing. These treatments can be damaged by harsh chemicals or acidic substances such as lemon juice. Fracture-filled or dyed sapphires should only be cleaned with a damp cloth to avoid compromising their appearance.
It is also important to note that sapphires used in jewelry should be protected from sudden temperature changes and heavy impacts. While they are durable, they can still be chipped or scratched under extreme conditions.
The May Birthstone: Emerald
Historical Significance
Emerald, the birthstone of May, has a history as rich and vibrant as its green color. The word "emerald" comes from the French esmeraude, which in turn derives from the Latin smaragdus and the Greek smaragdos, meaning "green gem." Emeralds have been cherished for thousands of years and have been found in ancient Egyptian, Indian, and Mesoamerican cultures.
One of the most famous historical figures associated with emeralds is Cleopatra, the last active pharaoh of Ancient Egypt. She was known for her love of emeralds, which were mined from the Egyptian mines of the Eastern Desert. Cleopatra often gave emeralds as gifts to her allies and lovers, including Mark Antony and Augustus.
Emeralds were also highly valued by the Incas and Aztecs, who believed they had healing and protective properties. In Europe, emeralds were often associated with nobility and were worn by monarchs and aristocrats as symbols of wealth and power.
Geological Formation and Sources
Emeralds are a variety of the mineral beryl (Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆), colored green by trace amounts of chromium or vanadium. They form in metamorphic rocks, particularly in areas where aluminum-rich minerals are present. Emeralds are typically found in alluvial deposits, where they have been eroded from their primary source and transported by water.
The most important historical and modern sources of emeralds include:
- Columbia: The most famous and highest-quality source of emeralds in the world. Colombian emeralds are known for their deep green color and excellent clarity.
- Brazil: A major producer of emeralds, Brazil has several important mining districts, including the state of Minas Gerais.
- Zambia: Known for producing emeralds with a slightly different green hue than Colombian stones, often due to the presence of vanadium rather than chromium.
- Zimbabwe and Madagascar: These countries have also emerged as significant sources of emeralds in recent decades.
Emeralds are typically found in pegmatites and hydrothermal deposits, and they are often associated with mica schist and other metamorphic rocks.
Gemological Properties
Emeralds rank 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them relatively durable but not as hard as sapphires. They have a refractive index of approximately 1.57–1.58 and a specific gravity of 2.67–2.80. Emeralds are known for their excellent transparency and vivid color, which makes them highly desirable in jewelry.
One of the key characteristics of emeralds is their inclusions, which are often referred to as "gardens." These inclusions are not flaws but rather natural features that indicate the stone's authenticity. In fact, the presence of inclusions is often used to distinguish natural emeralds from synthetic or imitation stones.
Emeralds are typically treated with oil, wax, or resin to enhance their clarity and color. This treatment is widely accepted in the gem trade and is considered part of the emerald's traditional care. However, it is important to note that excessive heat or exposure to solvents can damage the stone and remove the treatment.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Emeralds have long been associated with renewal, growth, and fertility. In ancient times, they were believed to have healing properties and were used in treatments for eye diseases and digestive issues. Emeralds were also thought to promote love, friendship, and harmony.
In medieval Europe, emeralds were associated with spring and rebirth, making them a popular choice for May, the month that symbolizes the beginning of the growing season. They were also believed to bring good fortune and protect against misfortune.
Modern metaphysical beliefs continue to attribute emeralds with calming and healing properties. They are said to enhance emotional stability, promote self-confidence, and encourage a sense of balance and well-being. Emeralds are also considered stones of love and are often used in engagement rings and other romantic jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Emeralds require special care due to their inclusions and treatments. While they are relatively durable, they are not as hard as sapphires and can be more prone to chipping or cracking. They should be protected from sudden impacts and temperature changes.
Cleaning emeralds should be done carefully. Warm, soapy water is generally safe, but ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be used with caution, as they can damage the treatment and inclusions. Emeralds that have been oiled or waxed should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can dissolve the treatment and affect the stone's appearance.
It is also important to store emeralds separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches and damage. A soft pouch or a lined jewelry box is ideal for protecting emeralds from contact with harder stones like diamonds or sapphires.
Comparative Analysis of Sapphires and Emeralds
| Property | Sapphire | Emerald |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) | Beryl (Be₃Al₂(SiO₃)₆) |
| Color | Blue (most common), also pink, yellow, green | Green (due to chromium or vanadium) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 | 7.5–8 |
| Refractive Index | 1.76–1.78 | 1.57–1.58 |
| Inclusions | Often absent or minimal | Common (often called "gardens") |
| Treatments | Heat, lattice diffusion, fracture filling | Oil, wax, resin |
| Symbolism | Wisdom, purity, protection | Renewal, love, harmony |
| Sources | Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Australia | Colombia, Brazil, Zambia, Zimbabwe |
| Care Requirements | Easy to clean, durable | Requires special care, avoid harsh chemicals |
Conclusion
Sapphires and emeralds, the September and May birthstones, are two of the most cherished gemstones in the world of jewelry and gemology. Sapphires, with their deep blue color and exceptional hardness, have long been symbols of wisdom, purity, and protection. Their rich history, from ancient Europe to modern royalty, continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelers alike.
Emeralds, on the other hand, are prized for their vibrant green color and their association with renewal, love, and harmony. Their inclusions, known as "gardens," are not flaws but rather natural features that add to their charm and authenticity. Both gemstones require special care, particularly emeralds, which are more sensitive to treatments and environmental factors.
Whether worn as a ring, bracelet, or necklace, sapphires and emeralds bring a timeless elegance and symbolic depth to any jewelry collection. Their enduring appeal lies not only in their beauty but also in their rich histories and cultural significance. For those born in September or May, or for those who simply appreciate the allure of these remarkable gemstones, sapphires and emeralds offer a lasting connection to the natural world and the traditions that have shaped human civilization for centuries.