September’s Quartet: Sapphire, Opal, Amethyst, and Lapis Lazuli

September boasts a remarkable array of birthstones – not one, but four: sapphire, the traditional and most recognized choice, alongside opal, amethyst, and lapis lazuli. This multiplicity reflects a historical evolution in birthstone designations, ensuring accessibility and variety for those seeking a gem aligned with their birth month. Each stone carries its own unique history, symbolism, and allure, offering a diverse range of options for September-born individuals. This article will explore the origins, properties, and significance of these four September birthstones, drawing upon available historical and gemological information.

A History of Multiple Designations

The practice of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year has evolved over time. Originally, each month was linked to a single stone, but as access to certain gems varied and preferences broadened, additional options were introduced. As noted, September now recognizes four birthstones, a testament to this evolving tradition. The availability of stones, coupled with personal preference, has led to the acceptance of multiple choices for each month, ensuring that individuals can find a birthstone that resonates with them, regardless of budget or location.

Sapphire: The Traditional September Stone

The most widely recognized September birthstone is sapphire, a gem cherished for millennia. The name “sapphire” originates from the Greek word sappheiros, and while commonly associated with blue hues, sapphires actually occur in a rainbow of colors. The blue variety, however, remains the most popular and iconic. Throughout history, sapphire has been linked to royalty, romance, and the virtues of sincerity, faithfulness, and nobility.

Ancient Greeks and Romans believed blue sapphires offered protection from harm and envy. During the Middle Ages, sapphire was favored by the clergy, symbolizing Heaven. Ancient Persians even held the belief that the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, responsible for the sky’s blue color. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, sapphire was also attributed with healing properties; medieval Europeans believed it could cure plague boils and eye diseases, and even serve as an antidote to poison.

Opal: A Blaze of Color

Opal, one of the alternative birthstones for September, is celebrated for its unique “play-of-color,” a mesmerizing display of iridescent hues. This phenomenon sets opal apart from many other gemstones. Opal is said to tether individuals to their inner strength and courage, encouraging self-acceptance and vulnerability. It serves as a reminder to savor life’s precious moments and embrace emotional exploration.

Amethyst: A Stone of Insight

Amethyst, another September birthstone, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence reveals amethyst jewelry as early as 3100 BC, discovered in Minos, Aegean Sea. Ancient Egyptians incorporated amethyst into jewelry and funerary objects, with examples found in the tombs of Amenemhet II and King Tut. Cleopatra herself wore an amethyst ring carved with the image of Mithras, a Persian god.

Historically, amethyst was associated with wealth, nobility, and royalty, partly due to the difficulty and expense of producing purple dye for fabrics. In some instances, amethyst was even priced higher than diamonds. The British Crown Jewels include an amethyst worn by Edward the Confessor in the 11th century, and Queen Elizabeth I possessed an amethyst necklace. Catherine the Great of Russia was a devoted collector of amethysts, commissioning miners to search for the gem in the Ural Mountains.

Amethyst is believed to imbue the wearer with keen insight and facilitate access to inner brilliance, making it a beneficial stone for those seeking creativity and mental clarity.

Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Compassion

Lapis Lazuli, the final September birthstone, is known for its deep blue color and association with compassion and harmony. It is believed to grant the insight and strength needed to remain true to oneself and others.

Gemological Properties and Care

While detailed gemological properties are not extensively covered in the provided sources, some general observations can be made. Sapphire, a variety of the mineral corundum, is known for its durability. The sources do not provide specific details on hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition.

Cleaning sapphire, opal, amethyst, and lapis lazuli generally involves warm, soapy water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are typically safe for untreated sapphires, heat-treated sapphires, and lattice diffusion-treated stones. However, fracture-filled or dyed materials should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. Specific care instructions for opal and lapis lazuli are not detailed in the provided sources.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Each of the September birthstones carries distinct symbolic meanings. Sapphire represents tranquility, insight, and balance. Opal encourages self-acceptance and emotional exploration. Amethyst promotes intuition, creativity, and mental clarity. Lapis Lazuli fosters compassion and harmony. These stones have been attributed with various metaphysical properties throughout history, ranging from protection against harm to healing ailments and enhancing spiritual awareness.

The association of gemstones with specific days of the week also exists. Lapis lazuli, along with turquoise and sapphire, is linked to Wednesday, believed to offer protection from negativity. Amethyst is associated with Thursday, promoting mental clarity through Jupiter’s energy.