September, a month marking the transition from summer to autumn, boasts a rich history of birthstone associations. While sapphire is traditionally recognized as the September birthstone, a fascinating array of alternative gems – including lapis lazuli, carnelian, aventurine, zircon, sardonyx, and agate – have held significance throughout history and across different cultures. This article delves into the lore, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of these September birthstones, offering a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and students of gemology.
A Historical Tapestry of September Birthstones
The designation of specific gemstones as birthstones evolved over centuries, influenced by religious traditions, astrological beliefs, and trade practices. Initially, the association wasn’t necessarily monthly; some calendars assigned gems to zodiac signs or even the day of the week. Sources indicate that September’s birthstone landscape was particularly diverse. Ancient Romans and Italians favored sardonyx, believing it offered protection and optimism, while ancient Tibetans considered agate a representative gem for the month. Hindu traditions linked blue zircon to September, describing it as a fragment from a wish-fulfilling tree.
The modern recognition of sapphire as the primary September birthstone gained prominence more recently. However, even within the last century, alternative options were frequently cited. Lapis lazuli, with its striking blue hue, was often considered interchangeable with sapphire in ancient times, and continues to be a popular alternative. Carnelian, a vibrant red-orange stone, also emerged as a significant choice, particularly in more recent lists of birthstones. The practice of offering multiple birthstone options continues today, allowing individuals to select a gem that resonates with them personally.
Sapphire: The Traditional September Stone
Sapphire, belonging to the corundum mineral family, is renowned for its exceptional hardness – a 9.0 on the Mohs scale, surpassed only by diamond. This durability makes it ideal for everyday wear, resisting scratches and maintaining its brilliance. While most associate sapphire with a deep blue color, it actually occurs in a wide spectrum of hues, including orange, purple, black, pink, yellow, and even colorless. The color variations are attributed to trace elements within the corundum’s crystal structure, such as chromium, titanium, vanadium, iron, and magnesium.
Historically, sapphire symbolized truth, wisdom, nobility, sincerity, and faithfulness. Its association with royalty and high society is well-documented, exemplified by its frequent use in engagement rings. A particularly famous example is Princess Diana’s engagement ring, now worn by Princess Kate Middleton, which features a 12-carat Ceylon sapphire as its centerpiece. Sapphires have been prized for centuries, appearing in the folklore of nearly every world religion, and are believed to possess divine connections capable of unlocking prophecies. The gem is thought to stimulate the throat chakra and the third eye, promoting clarity of thought and spiritual insight.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Royalty and Spirituality
Lapis lazuli, an alternative September birthstone, is a deep blue metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, along with calcite and pyrite. The presence of pyrite often manifests as golden flecks within the stone, enhancing its visual appeal and value. Lapis lazuli’s history is steeped in royalty and spirituality. It adorned the sarcophagus of King Tutankhamun and embellished the walls, fireplaces, and doors of Catherine the Great’s Russian palace, demonstrating its esteemed status throughout history.
The stone is believed to promote mental clarity, serenity, and self-mastery, and is often associated with the stars and heavens due to its color resembling the night sky. On the Mohs hardness scale, lapis lazuli registers between 5 and 6, classifying it as having “fair” hardness. While it can be scratched by sharper instruments, it is capable of scratching glass. Its metaphysical properties are linked to illumination, communication, and protection.
Carnelian: A Gem of Confidence and Abundance
Carnelian, a variety of chalcedony (a form of quartz), presents itself in shades of fiery red-orange, though pink and brown varieties also exist. Its name originates from the Latin word “carneus,” meaning flesh-like, referencing its characteristic color. Carnelian was frequently used for cameos in ancient times and is believed to possess the ability to cleanse other stones.
With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, carnelian is considered a semi-precious stone, though less durable than sapphire. It is associated with fertility, confidence, and abundance. Some believe that placing carnelian near a front door can invite good fortune.
Other September Alternatives: A Diverse Selection
Beyond sapphire, lapis lazuli, and carnelian, several other gemstones have been historically linked to September. Aventurine, a green variety of quartz, is associated with the zodiac sign Virgo and is known as a stone of abundance, empathy, and creativity. Peridot, while now commonly recognized as the August birthstone, was listed as a September birthstone on ancient Russian, Hebrew, Italian, and Arabic calendars. Sardonyx, a banded form of chalcedony, was favored in ancient Rome and Italy for its protective qualities. Agate, found in numerous varieties worldwide, was considered a September birthstone in ancient Tibet, offering stabilizing energies. Zircon, particularly the blue variety, held significance in Hindu traditions, symbolizing peace and inner joy.
Care and Cleaning of September Birthstones
Maintaining the beauty of September birthstones requires understanding their individual properties. Sapphires, due to their exceptional hardness, are relatively easy to care for. Routine cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush is generally sufficient. Lapis lazuli, being softer, requires more gentle handling. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface. Cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soapy water is recommended. Carnelian, also relatively durable, can be cleaned similarly to sapphire, but avoid prolonged exposure to intense heat or sunlight, which may fade its color.
Conclusion
September’s birthstone selection offers a captivating blend of history, symbolism, and gemological diversity. While sapphire remains the traditional choice, the alternative gems – lapis lazuli, carnelian, aventurine, zircon, sardonyx, and agate – each possess unique qualities and historical significance. Whether seeking a stone for its aesthetic beauty, metaphysical properties, or personal connection, the September birthstones provide a rich and rewarding exploration into the world of gemstones.