Sapphire, the birthstone for September, holds a prominent place in gemological history and continues to be a highly valued gemstone today. While most commonly recognized for its captivating blue hues, sapphire actually encompasses a spectrum of colors, with red varieties being classified as ruby. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gemstone, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The association of gemstones with specific months is a relatively recent development, originating in the 16th to 18th centuries with a list compiled in Poland. However, the roots of birthstone lore extend much further back, to biblical times and the breastplate of Aaron, where twelve gemstones were believed to correspond to the twelve tribes of Israel. Early interpretations, attributed to Josephus and St. Jerome in the 1st and 5th centuries CE, linked these gems to the zodiac signs, suggesting each stone possessed unique powers during its corresponding astrological period. People sought to collect and wear all twelve gems throughout the year for talismanic or therapeutic benefits. The practice of focusing on a single birthstone per month emerged later, with the National Association of Jewelers publishing a “modern birthstone” list in 1912.
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with rich symbolism. In the Middle Ages, Christian clergy wore blue sapphires as symbols of heaven. More broadly, the stone has traditionally been believed to protect loved ones from harm. For many gem enthusiasts, sapphires now symbolize wisdom, purity, and faith. Ancient Greeks believed sapphires held the gift of prophecy and could offer protection against disease.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, an aluminum oxide. Crucially, sapphire is defined as the non-red variety of corundum; red corundum is classified as ruby. Sapphires occur in a wide range of colors, excluding red. The formation of sapphires requires specific geological conditions, and they are found in various locations around the world.
While the sources do not detail specific mining locations beyond a general statement, they emphasize the durability and formation under extreme conditions. Sapphires can be found in hardened lava carried from deep within the Earth’s mantle, and even within meteorites that have traveled from outer space.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire boasts exceptional durability, registering a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale. This places it just below diamond, the hardest known mineral, at 10. This high hardness makes sapphire exceptionally resistant to scratching and suitable for everyday wear. While diamond can scratch sapphire, most other minerals cannot.
Sapphire is the gem variety of the mineral corundum, which is aluminum oxide. The color of sapphire is determined by trace elements within the crystal structure. While blue is the most well-known color, sapphires occur in nearly every hue.
The sources do not provide specific details regarding clarity, cut, or carat weight standards for sapphires.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphire has accumulated a wealth of symbolic meaning across cultures and throughout history. Traditionally, the stone was believed to offer protection, while more recently it has come to represent wisdom, purity, and faith. In some cultures, sapphire is associated with happiness and fertility, leading some to choose peridot rings for wedding celebrations.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. Cleaning can be accomplished with warm, soapy water. However, caution should be exercised if the sapphire has undergone heat treatment, as harsh cleaning methods could potentially affect its color. Professional jewelry cleaners can be used, but it is important to ensure they are suitable for heat-treated stones.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its ancient origins as a symbol of protection and prophecy to its modern status as a beloved birthstone and jewelry staple, sapphire continues to captivate with its beauty, durability, and rich history. Its exceptional hardness makes it ideal for everyday wear, while its diverse range of colors ensures there is a sapphire to suit every taste. The September birthstone remains a significant gem, embodying wisdom, purity, and faith for those born under its radiant glow.