For those born in September, the sapphire reigns as the traditional and modern birthstone. Revered for millennia, this gemstone embodies wisdom, loyalty, and divine favor, captivating civilizations with its rich hues and enduring beauty. While most readily recognized in its classic deep blue, the sapphire presents a spectrum of colors, each with its own unique appeal and significance. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of the September birthstone, exploring its enduring legacy as a gem of distinction.
History and Lore
The history of the sapphire is deeply interwoven with human culture, stretching back over 2,500 years. Ancient civilizations held the sapphire in high esteem, associating it with protection, power, and spiritual enlightenment. In ancient Greece and Rome, blue sapphires were believed to safeguard owners from harm and envy. Clergy of the Middle Ages wore sapphires, viewing the gem as a symbol of Heaven, representing faith and piety.
The lore surrounding the sapphire extends beyond the Mediterranean world. Ancient Persians held a remarkable belief – that the world rested upon a giant sapphire, and the blue color of the sky was a reflection of this immense stone. Similarly, Buddhists believed sapphires promoted inner peace, while in the seven heavens of Islam, sapphires were among the most desired precious stones. Remarkably, some accounts even suggest the Ten Commandments were inscribed upon tablets of sapphire, highlighting the stone’s association with divine law and unbreakable strength.
Throughout history, the sapphire has been linked to royalty and nobility. Its association with these elevated classes further cemented its status as a gem of prestige and enduring value. Today, it continues to be a popular choice for engagement rings, symbolizing fidelity and romance, and is also traditionally used to commemorate the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum, an aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The presence of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, creates the characteristic blue color. Other trace elements result in sapphires of different hues, including pink, yellow, green, violet, and even color-change varieties. Ruby, the red variety of corundum, is considered a separate gemstone.
Sapphires form in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Primary deposits are found in metamorphic rocks like marble, while secondary deposits occur in alluvial gravels, formed by the weathering and erosion of primary sources.
Major sources of sapphires are geographically diverse. Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Myanmar (Burma), and Thailand have historically been significant producers. Australia also yields substantial quantities of sapphires. Notably, Montana in the United States is a source of sapphires, particularly those with a distinctive “Montana sapphire” color.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional durability and beauty. 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) |
With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphires are second only to diamonds in terms of hardness, making them exceptionally resistant to scratching and abrasion. This durability makes them ideal for everyday wear in jewelry.
While the classic sapphire color is a deep, velvety blue, sapphires occur in a wide range of colors. These “fancy sapphires,” as they are often called, are increasingly popular. The color variations are due to the presence of different trace elements within the crystal structure. For example, iron and titanium contribute to blue hues, while iron alone can create yellow sapphires.
The value of a sapphire is influenced by its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. A high-quality 1-carat blue sapphire can range in price from $3000 to $5000, though prices fluctuate based on market conditions and specific gem characteristics.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, the sapphire has been imbued with rich symbolism. It traditionally represents sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. These associations have contributed to its enduring popularity as a gemstone for significant occasions, such as engagements and anniversaries.
Beyond its symbolic meaning, sapphires have been attributed with metaphysical properties. Medieval Europeans believed sapphires could cure plague boils and diseases of the eye, and were considered an antidote to poison. In Vedic astrology, yellow sapphires are considered auspicious and are believed to bring optimism and prosperity.
In some traditions, particularly in Indian astrology, sapphires (referred to as “Neelam Stone”) are associated with the planet Saturn. Astrologers believe that wearing a sapphire can impact the wearer’s finances and overall well-being, though caution is advised when selecting the stone and determining the appropriate time to wear it.
Care and Cleaning
Sapphires are durable gemstones, but proper care is essential to maintain their brilliance and beauty. Warm, soapy water is generally safe for cleaning sapphires. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated stones. However, fracture-filled or dyed sapphires should only be cleaned with a damp cloth, as harsh cleaning methods can damage the filling or dye.
It is important to be aware that some sapphires undergo treatments to enhance their color or clarity. These treatments can include heat treatment, lattice diffusion, and fracture filling. Understanding the type of treatment a sapphire has undergone is crucial for determining the appropriate cleaning method.
When purchasing a sapphire, it is advisable to ask about its origin and any treatments it has received, and to request certification from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This ensures that you are acquiring a quality gemstone that is worth your investment.
Conclusion
The sapphire, September’s captivating birthstone, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its ancient origins steeped in mythology and royalty to its modern-day appeal as a symbol of fidelity and romance, the sapphire continues to enchant and inspire. Its exceptional durability, coupled with its stunning array of colors, makes it a cherished gem for generations to come. Whether admired for its beauty, appreciated for its symbolism, or valued for its geological significance, the sapphire remains a truly remarkable and timeless treasure.