For millennia, the deep blue hues of sapphire have captivated humanity, embodying royalty, fidelity, and the pursuit of wisdom. As the designated birthstone for September, this gemstone holds a prominent place in both history and modern jewelry. While most readily recognized in its classic blue form, sapphire encompasses a spectrum of colors, making it a versatile and cherished gem. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of the September birthstone, the sapphire.
History and Lore
The story of sapphire is deeply interwoven with the beliefs and traditions of ancient civilizations. The name “sapphire” itself originates from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning blue, which in turn derives from the Hebrew sappir, signifying “to shine.” Ancient Jewish texts attribute significant importance to the stone, claiming a giant sapphire illuminated Noah’s Ark and adorned the breastplate of the Jewish High Priest. Furthermore, legends suggest the Ten Commandments were inscribed upon sapphire tablets.
Initially, the term “sapphire” was broadly applied to lapis lazuli, a vibrant blue stone sourced from a mine in Afghanistan. Due to its rarity and prized status, lapis lazuli held mystical and magical properties in ancient Egypt and medieval Europe. As blue specimens of corundum – a recently discovered gem at the time – became known, European gemologists began to refer to them using the established name “sapphire.”
Throughout history, sapphire has been associated with protection and enlightenment. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed blue sapphires shielded their owners from harm and envy. During the Middle Ages, clergy wore sapphires, symbolizing Heaven, and the stone was reputed to possess healing powers, curing plague boils and eye diseases, and even acting as an antidote to poison.
The association with royalty continued through the ages, solidifying sapphire’s status as a gem of nobility and devotion. In 1912, the American National Association of Jewelers officially designated sapphire as the birthstone for September, and it remains a popular choice for commemorating the 5th, 23rd, and 45th wedding anniversaries. A rare variety, the star sapphire, is reserved for the 65th anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a crystalline form of the mineral corundum (Al₂O₃), second only to diamond in hardness on the Mohs scale, registering a 9. While typically known for its blue coloration, sapphire can occur in a rainbow of hues, excluding red, which is classified as ruby. The blue color in sapphires is attributed to the presence of iron and titanium.
Historically significant sources of sapphire include Kashmir, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka. These regions continue to yield exceptional specimens. However, substantial deposits have also been discovered in Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, the United States (Montana’s Yogo Gulch), and various locations throughout Asia and Africa.
Thailand serves not only as a mining location but also as a crucial hub for cutting and treating sapphires. The province of Chanthaburi is renowned for its sapphire mining operations, often conducted amidst dense jungles and challenging terrain. Sapphires from Myanmar and Cambodia are frequently transported to Chanthaburi for processing before reaching Bangkok, a major center in the global gem trade.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires exhibit a remarkable combination of beauty and durability. Their key gemological properties include:
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum (Al₂O₃) |
| Hardness | 9 on the Mohs scale |
| Classic Color | Deep “royal” blue |
| Other Hues | Pink, yellow, green, violet, black, color-change |
| Major Sources | Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia, Montana (USA) |
Beyond the classic blue, sapphires can be found in a variety of colors, including pink, yellow, green, violet, and even black. Color-change sapphires, which shift hue depending on the light source, are particularly prized.
A unique optical phenomenon, asterism, occurs in some sapphires due to the presence of tiny needle-like inclusions. This creates a star-like appearance, most prominent in cabochon cuts, with between six and twelve rays, or a cat’s-eye effect. These “star sapphires” are considered rare and are often used to commemorate significant milestones, such as a 65th wedding anniversary.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with rich symbolism. It traditionally represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. The gem is often associated with royalty and romance, embodying loyalty, wisdom, love, and devotion.
Ancient Persians believed the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, responsible for the sky’s blue color. Medieval Europeans attributed healing properties to the stone, believing it could cure various ailments. While these beliefs are not scientifically substantiated, they demonstrate the enduring cultural significance of sapphire.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphire’s exceptional hardness makes it a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. However, proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance. Due to its hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphire is resistant to scratching, making it ideal for all types of jewelry.
Cleaning sapphires is relatively straightforward. Warm, soapy water and a soft brush are generally sufficient to remove dirt and grime. For more stubborn residue, ultrasonic cleaners can be used, but caution should be exercised with stones that have been fracture-filled. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone’s surface.
Conclusion
The sapphire, September’s captivating birthstone, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of colored gemstones. From its ancient origins steeped in mythology and royalty to its modern-day popularity in jewelry, sapphire continues to inspire and enchant. Its exceptional durability, combined with its rich symbolism and diverse range of colors, ensures its place as a treasured gem for generations to come. The sapphire’s legacy is one of beauty, strength, and timeless elegance, solidifying its position as a truly remarkable gemstone.