Sapphire, most readily recognized for its rich blue tones, is a gemstone steeped in history, lore, and scientific fascination. As the birthstone for September, and a symbol of fidelity, nobility, and truth, sapphire has captivated civilizations for millennia. While commonly associated with the color blue, this remarkable gem occurs in a stunning spectrum of hues, making it a versatile and highly prized possession. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of the sapphire, drawing upon established knowledge within the field of gemology.
History and Lore
The story of sapphire extends back through the annals of time, with ancient cultures attributing significant meaning to the gem. The name “sapphire” itself has a fascinating etymology, originating from the Latin sapphirus and Greek sappheiros, terms that may have originally referred to lapis lazuli. Some scholars suggest a connection to the Sanskrit word sanipriya, meaning “dear to Saturn.” Regardless of its precise origins, the name reflects a long-held association with the color blue.
Ancient Greeks and Romans believed blue sapphires offered protection from harm and envy. In the Middle Ages, sapphires were highly valued by the clergy, symbolizing Heaven and representing divine wisdom. Persian lore even held that the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, responsible for the sky’s blue color. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the sapphire was also believed to possess healing properties; medieval Europeans thought it could cure plague boils and eye diseases, and even act as an antidote to poison.
More recently, sapphires have become synonymous with royalty and romance. A particularly famous example is the 18-carat oval blue sapphire set in a diamond cluster, now part of the British royal family’s collection, originally given by Prince Charles to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981. This iconic ring continues to capture public imagination and reinforces the sapphire’s association with enduring love and prestige. The deep blue hue of sapphire has even lent its name to the color “royal blue.”
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire belongs to the corundum family, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (α-Al2O3). Trace elements within the corundum structure are responsible for the gem’s diverse colors. Iron and titanium create blue hues, while chromium contributes to pink and red shades (with a sufficient concentration of chromium resulting in ruby). Other elements like magnesium, vanadium, and silicon can also influence the color.
Historically significant sources of sapphire include Kashmir, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka. Kashmir sapphires are particularly prized for their velvety blue color, though they are exceptionally rare. Myanmar has long been a source of fine-quality sapphires, and Sri Lanka continues to produce a variety of colors.
In more recent times, significant sapphire deposits have been discovered in Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, and the United States, particularly in Montana. Montana sapphires are known for their durability and range of colors, and the state officially recognizes sapphire as its state gemstone. Australia’s Queensland also claims sapphire as its official gemstone. Sapphires are often found in association with other minerals, including ruby, zircon, biotite, muscovite, calcite, dravite, and quartz.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire is renowned for its exceptional hardness, registering a 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes it the third-hardest mineral, surpassed only by diamond (10) and moissanite (9.5). This durability contributes to its suitability for everyday wear and its use in industrial applications.
While blue is the most well-known color, sapphires occur in a “rainbow of hues,” including violet, green, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and even gray, black, or brown. Sapphires that exhibit more than one color are known as “parti-colored sapphires.” Some sapphires display the phenomenon of color change, shifting from blue in daylight or fluorescent light to purple under incandescent light. These color-changing sapphires are highly sought after.
Gemstones that are corundum but red in color are classified as rubies, rather than sapphires. The distinction between pink sapphire and ruby can be nuanced, particularly in the United States, where a minimum color saturation is required for a gemstone to be considered a ruby. Padparadscha sapphires, exhibiting a delicate pinkish-orange hue reminiscent of a lotus flower, are particularly valuable and can command high prices.
Sapphire’s chemical formula is α-Al2O3, with trace elements influencing its color. The intensity of the blue color, for example, is directly related to the amount of titanium present – more titanium results in a deeper blue.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with symbolic meaning. It traditionally represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. Its association with royalty and the clergy further solidified its reputation as a gem of high status and spiritual significance.
In some cultures, sapphire is linked to astrological beliefs. It is considered a Taurus zodiac stone. In Ayurvedic astrology, blue sapphire (Neelam) is associated with Saturn, while yellow sapphire (Pukhraj) is linked to Jupiter. These associations contribute to the belief that sapphires can influence fate and well-being.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, sapphire is a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. However, like all gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its brilliance. Sapphires can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated sapphires, but caution should be exercised with stones that have been fracture-filled or heat-treated. Regular cleaning will help preserve the sapphire’s luster and ensure it continues to sparkle for generations.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its ancient origins and rich historical associations to its remarkable gemological properties and diverse color palette, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. As the birthstone for September, and a symbol of enduring love and unwavering fidelity, sapphire remains a treasured gem for both its beauty and its profound significance. Its durability, combined with its stunning range of colors, ensures its continued popularity in jewelry and its enduring place in the world of gemstones.