September boasts a rich array of birthstones, with sapphire taking center stage as the modern and widely recognized gem for this month. However, the history of September birthstones reveals a more complex and fascinating story, encompassing a variety of gemstones including peridot, lapis lazuli, zircon, moonstone, sardonyx, and agate. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and cultural significance of these September birthstones, primarily focusing on sapphire while acknowledging the historical importance of its counterparts.
A History Woven Through Calendars and Cultures
The designation of specific gemstones as birthstones evolved over centuries, influenced by religious traditions, astrological beliefs, and historical events. Sapphire’s association with September is relatively recent, gaining prominence in the 20th century. Prior to this, several other gemstones held the title of September birthstone across different cultures and calendars.
Peridot, a gem-quality olivine, was historically considered the traditional September birthstone, appearing in calendars used in Italy, Russia, Hebrew, and Arabic traditions. It was also linked to the zodiac sign Libra, which partially falls within September. Sardonyx, a banded variety of onyx, was recognized as a September stone in the old Roman and Polish calendars, believed to enhance courage and worn by soldiers in Ancient Rome. In Hindu traditions, zircon held the position of September birthstone, and was also considered a talismanic stone for the zodiac sign Virgo. Ancient Indian calendars also featured moonstone as a September birthstone, believed to relieve anxiety. Lapis lazuli served as an alternate birthstone for September in Britain, alongside sapphire.
The modern association of sapphire with September solidified in the United States and Britain, with lapis lazuli recognized as an alternative. This shift reflects evolving gemological preferences and marketing influences.
The Geological Origins of September’s Stones
Sapphire, along with ruby, belongs to the mineral species corundum. Corundum is inherently colorless, and the vibrant hues of sapphire and ruby are created by trace elements within the crystal structure. Iron, titanium, and chromium are among the elements responsible for the diverse range of sapphire colors, including the most well-known blue variety. Sapphires form in metamorphic and igneous rocks, often found in alluvial deposits after weathering and erosion.
Peridot, as a gem-quality olivine, forms deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Sardonyx is a chalcedony, a form of silica, created through the layering of different colored bands of onyx and sard. Zircon forms in igneous rocks and alluvial deposits, and can occur in a variety of colors. Moonstone is composed of layers of orthoclase and albite, forming a unique adularescence, or glowing effect. Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, along with other minerals like calcite and pyrite.
Gemological Properties: A Spectrum of Characteristics
Sapphire’s hardness ranks 9 on the Mohs scale, making it exceptionally durable and suitable for everyday wear. Its chemical formula is Al₂O₃. While blue is the most iconic color, sapphires occur in a wide spectrum, including orange, yellow, green, pink, and purple.
Peridot has a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7, making it less durable than sapphire. Its chemical formula is (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. Sardonyx, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7, is also relatively durable. Zircon’s hardness ranges from 6.5-7.5, and its refractive index varies depending on the color. Moonstone has a Mohs hardness of 6-6.5 and exhibits a pearly luster. Lapis lazuli has a Mohs hardness of 5-6, making it relatively soft and requiring careful handling.
Here's a comparative table of hardness:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Sapphire | 9 |
| Peridot | 6.5-7 |
| Sardonyx | 6.5-7 |
| Zircon | 6.5-7.5 |
| Moonstone | 6-6.5 |
| Lapis Lazuli | 5-6 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, September birthstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning and believed to possess various metaphysical properties. Sapphire, deeply associated with truth, sincerity, constancy, and purity of the soul, is thought to bring inner peace and ward off depression. It has been a symbol of royalty and wisdom for centuries.
Peridot is believed to protect the wearer from negativity. Sardonyx was thought to enhance courage, and was worn by Roman soldiers for this purpose. Zircon is believed to bring peace of mind and prosperity. Moonstone is associated with relieving anxiety and fostering emotional balance. Lapis lazuli is believed to enhance awareness and creativity.
These beliefs, while not scientifically proven, reflect the enduring human desire to find meaning and power in the natural world.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is relatively easy to care for. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Peridot, being less durable, requires more gentle cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Sardonyx, zircon, moonstone, and lapis lazuli should also be cleaned with mild soap and water, avoiding abrasive materials. Lapis lazuli, in particular, should be protected from scratches and impacts due to its relative softness.
Conclusion
September’s birthstones represent a fascinating blend of history, geology, and cultural significance. While sapphire has emerged as the dominant gem associated with this month, the legacy of peridot, lapis lazuli, zircon, moonstone, and sardonyx continues to enrich the story of September birthdays. Each gemstone offers a unique beauty and symbolism, reflecting the diverse traditions and beliefs that have shaped our understanding of these precious gifts from the Earth. The enduring appeal of these stones lies not only in their aesthetic qualities but also in their connection to the past and their potential to inspire and uplift.