Sapphire, the esteemed birthstone for September, holds a prominent place in history, lore, and the world of gemstones. Celebrated for its captivating beauty, particularly its classic blue hue, sapphire has long been associated with royalty, faith, and wisdom. This article delves into the multifaceted world of sapphire, exploring its historical significance, geological origins, gemological properties, and enduring symbolism, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is deeply interwoven with tales of power, protection, and spiritual enlightenment. For millennia, sapphire has been prized by cultures across the globe. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed blue sapphires shielded their wearers from harm and envy. Within the elite circles of these civilizations, the gemstone was a symbol of protection and high status. Medieval Europeans attributed healing properties to sapphire, believing it could cure plague boils and eye diseases, and even serve as an antidote to poison. Clergy of the Middle Ages favored sapphires, associating the gem with Heaven and its celestial blue color.
Ancient Persian beliefs took this reverence a step further, positing that the earth rested upon a colossal sapphire, responsible for the sky’s azure hue. This belief underscores the profound connection ancient cultures felt between sapphire and the cosmos.
The gemstone’s historical record extends back even further. Evidence suggests the use of lapis lazuli, sometimes historically misidentified as sapphire, dates back 6500 years, with early applications in art, jewelry, and even cosmetics. Cleopatra herself is noted to have used powdered lapis lazuli as eyeshadow, demonstrating its value as both an aesthetic and potentially medicinal substance. References to what was thought to be sapphire also appear in the Old Testament, potentially referring to lapis lazuli.
Throughout history, sapphire has been a recurring motif in royal adornments and religious artifacts, solidifying its association with nobility and spiritual devotion.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, an aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) crystal. While commonly known for its blue color, sapphire actually occurs in a rainbow of hues. Ruby, the red variety of corundum, is also considered a sapphire. The presence of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, creates the various colors observed in sapphires.
Information regarding specific mining locations is limited within the provided sources, but it is noted that the use of lapis lazuli originated in the Afghan region before spreading to Asia, the Middle East, and the Roman world. Marco Polo documented the existence of lapis lazuli mines as early as 1271. Sapphires are found in various locations globally, though the sources do not specify particular regions beyond this general information.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire is renowned for its exceptional durability and beauty. It ranks second only to diamond on the Mohs hardness scale, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear. This hardness contributes to its suitability for all types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and bracelets.
The term "sapphire" originates from the Greek word "sappheiros," meaning blue. However, sapphires are not limited to blue shades; they can also be found in pink, yellow, green, and even colorless varieties. The most valuable sapphires are those with a velvety blue or violet hue.
Lapis lazuli, an alternative September birthstone, is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, pyrite, and calcite. To be classified as lapis lazuli, the rock must contain at least 25% blue lazurite, which is responsible for its characteristic deep blue color. The presence of pyrite creates speckles of yellow, while calcite adds white intrusions.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties, based on the provided sources:
| Property | Sapphire (Corundum) | Lapis Lazuli |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum (Al₂O₃) | Metamorphic Rock |
| Hardness (Mohs) | Second to Diamond | Not specified |
| Color | Various, incl. Blue | Deep Blue |
| Composition | Aluminum Oxide | Lazurite, Pyrite, Calcite |
| Luster | Not specified | Not specified |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphire is rich in symbolism, representing power, loyalty, skill, sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. It is believed to bring security, wisdom, and progress to its wearer. The gemstone is often associated with faith and mental clarity.
Historically, sapphires were thought to possess protective qualities, shielding wearers from harm and envy. The association with Heaven and the cosmos further enhanced its spiritual significance.
For those born in September, sapphire is considered a particularly auspicious birthstone, embodying the qualities of the season and offering a sense of balance and happiness.
Care and Cleaning
While exceptionally durable, sapphires still require proper care to maintain their brilliance. The sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions, but given sapphire’s hardness, it is likely resistant to scratching from everyday wear. However, as with any gemstone, it is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush is generally recommended.
FAQs
The sources address several frequently asked questions regarding September birthstones. It is noted that sapphire is the birthstone for those born under the Virgo sun sign (August 23 to September 22). The diamond, birthstone for April, is considered one of the rarest. Amethyst is not the birthstone for September; sapphire is. Sapphire is also associated with the 6th and 45th wedding anniversaries.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its ancient origins as a symbol of royalty and spiritual protection to its modern status as a beloved birthstone, sapphire continues to captivate with its beauty, durability, and rich history. Whether it’s the classic blue variety or one of its many colorful counterparts, sapphire remains a treasured gem, embodying qualities of wisdom, faith, and enduring elegance. Lapis lazuli, as an alternative September birthstone, adds another layer of historical and cultural significance to the month.