For millennia, the sapphire has captivated humanity with its rich hues and enduring symbolism. As the recognized birthstone for September, this gemstone embodies sincerity, truth, and nobility, qualities that have cemented its place in history, lore, and modern jewelry. While commonly associated with a deep blue color, sapphires actually occur in a spectrum of shades, making them a versatile and highly prized gem. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and care of the September birthstone, the sapphire.
History and Lore
The history of the sapphire is deeply interwoven with tales of royalty, spirituality, and healing. Ancient civilizations, including those of Greece and Rome, revered blue sapphires as protective talismans, believing they guarded against harm and envy. Within these societies, the elite adorned themselves with the gemstone, signifying status and safeguarding their well-being. During the Middle Ages, sapphire held a sacred place within the clergy, symbolizing Heaven and representing divine favor. Ancient Persians held a particularly striking belief, positing that the earth itself rested upon a colossal sapphire, responsible for the sky’s azure hue.
Beyond its aesthetic and symbolic value, the sapphire was also attributed with medicinal properties. Medieval Europeans believed the gemstone could cure plague boils and alleviate eye ailments, even serving as an antidote to poison. These beliefs, while not scientifically substantiated, underscore the profound respect and reverence accorded to the sapphire throughout history.
Notable sapphires have graced the collections of royalty and become iconic symbols of love and commitment. The Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone originating from Myanmar, exemplifies the gem’s enduring appeal. Acquired by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in 1934, it has been reimagined in various settings, including a brooch and a ring. More recently, the 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, initially worn by Princess Diana and later given to Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, has become a globally recognized symbol of enduring romance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, an aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) crystal. The presence of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, creates the characteristic blue color. Ruby, the red variety of corundum, derives its color from chromium. Sapphires form in metamorphic and igneous rocks, requiring specific geological conditions over extended periods.
Historically significant sources of sapphires include Kashmir, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka. Kashmir sapphires, discovered around 1881 following a landslide in the Himalayas, are particularly renowned for their velvety “cornflower” blue hue. Production from this region has been sporadic, making Kashmir sapphires exceptionally rare and valuable. Myanmar, specifically the Mogok area, also yields sapphires, often alongside ruby deposits, though in smaller quantities. These “Burmese” sapphires are prized for their rich, intense blue coloration. Sri Lanka, known as the “jewel box of the Indian Ocean,” has been a source of sapphires for over 2,000 years, producing both blue and fancy-colored stones.
More recent discoveries have expanded the geographical range of sapphire sources to include Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, and the United States (Montana). Thailand serves not only as a mining location but also as a major cutting and treatment center for sapphires sourced from Myanmar and Cambodia.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires possess exceptional physical and optical properties that contribute to their durability and beauty. Ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, sapphires are remarkably resistant to scratching, making them ideal for everyday wear, particularly in rings. They exhibit excellent toughness and lack cleavage, meaning they are unlikely to break or chip when subjected to impact.
The gemological properties of sapphire can be summarized as follows:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum (Aluminum Oxide) |
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Toughness | Excellent |
| Cleavage | None |
| Color | Typically blue, but can occur in various colors |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
Sapphires are often treated to enhance their color or clarity. Heat treatment is a common and widely accepted practice, permanently improving the gem’s appearance. Less common treatments, such as lattice diffusion and fracture filling, require more careful consideration and may affect the stone’s long-term durability. It is crucial to inquire about any treatments applied to a sapphire before purchase.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, the sapphire has been imbued with rich symbolism. Traditionally, it represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. Beyond these core values, the sapphire is also associated with romance, divinity, and wisdom. The gemstone is believed to guard against envy and harm, offering protection to its wearer.
The symbolism of the sapphire extends to metaphysical beliefs, with some attributing healing properties to the stone. While these claims lack scientific validation, they reflect the enduring connection between gemstones and spiritual well-being.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of a sapphire requires proper care and cleaning. Due to its hardness, sapphire is relatively resistant to damage, but certain precautions should be taken. Warm, soapy water is a safe and effective cleaning solution. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated sapphires. However, fracture-filled or dyed sapphires should only be cleaned with a damp cloth, as harsh chemicals or cleaning methods can damage the stone. Regular cleaning (every 6-12 months) and inspection by a professional jeweler can help detect loose stones or worn prongs, ensuring the longevity of the sapphire jewelry. Proper storage in soft pouches or jewelry boxes, separate from other pieces, will also help prevent scratches and damage.
Conclusion
The sapphire, as the September birthstone, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its historical roots in ancient civilizations to its modern-day presence in iconic jewelry, the sapphire continues to captivate with its beauty, symbolism, and durability. Its geological origins, spanning continents and centuries, contribute to its mystique and value. Understanding the gemological properties and proper care of the sapphire ensures that this treasured gemstone will remain a cherished heirloom for generations to come.