Sapphire, a gemstone steeped in history and symbolism, holds the distinguished position as the birthstone for September. Belonging to the corundum family, alongside ruby, sapphire is renowned for its captivating beauty and durability. While most commonly recognized for its vibrant blue hues, this remarkable gem presents a spectrum of colors, each with its own unique appeal. For millennia, sapphire has been associated with royalty, faith, and wisdom, making it a treasured possession across cultures and throughout time. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this exceptional gemstone.
History and Lore
The story of sapphire stretches back to ancient civilizations, where its beauty and perceived powers were highly valued. The name “sapphire” is believed to originate from the Greek word sappheiros, meaning “blue stone,” though some historical interpretations suggest the term may have initially referred to lapis lazuli. Ancient Greeks and Romans held sapphires in high esteem, believing the blue variety protected owners from harm and envy. In ancient Persia, a captivating myth held that the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, imbuing the sky with its brilliant blue color.
Throughout the Middle Ages, sapphire continued to be revered. Clergy members wore sapphires, associating the gem’s blue color with Heaven and believing it symbolized faith and piety. Medieval Europeans attributed healing properties to the stone, claiming it could cure plague boils, eye diseases, and even act as an antidote to poison. These beliefs underscore the profound impact sapphire had on the cultural and spiritual lives of people for centuries.
The gem’s association with royalty is long-standing. Throughout history, sapphires have adorned the crowns and jewelry of kings and queens, signifying nobility and power. Notable examples include the Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone originating from Myanmar (Burma), acquired by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in 1934. More recently, the 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds in Princess Diana’s engagement ring, now worn by Kate Middleton, has cemented the gem’s status as a symbol of enduring romance and regal elegance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of corundum, an aluminum oxide mineral with the chemical formula Al2O3. Its crystalline structure is hexagonal, possessing four axes, three of equal length intersecting at 60-degree angles, and one of differing length intersecting at a right angle. The presence of trace elements, such as iron and titanium, creates the characteristic blue color of most sapphires. However, other trace elements can result in a rainbow of “fancy colored” sapphires, including purple, green, and yellow. Red corundum, however, is classified as ruby, a distinct gemstone.
Historically significant sources of sapphire include Kashmir, a mountainous region in northern India bordering Pakistan, Myanmar (formerly Burma), and Sri Lanka. Kashmir sapphires, particularly those with a “cornflower blue” hue, are considered among the most valuable due to their rarity. Political instability and geographic isolation contribute to their high cost. Significant quantities of sapphires have also been discovered in Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, Madagascar, and the United States, specifically in Montana.
Gemological Properties
Sapphires are renowned for their exceptional hardness, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale, making them highly durable and suitable for everyday wear. This hardness is identical to that of ruby, as both are varieties of corundum. All gemological properties, except for color, are identical between sapphire and ruby.
While blue is the most recognized color, sapphires occur in a wide range of hues. Sapphires are categorized as simply “sapphire” if they exhibit a predominantly blue color. Any other color is designated as a “fancy colored” sapphire, explicitly named by its hue (e.g., “purple sapphire,” “green sapphire”). The evaluation of a sapphire’s color considers its hue, tone, and saturation.
The United States Federal Trade Commission has specific regulations regarding the classification of corundum. If corundum is pink, it must be sold as a sapphire, legally eliminating the term “pink ruby” from the gem trade in the United States.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with rich symbolism. It has traditionally represented sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. Beyond its association with royalty, sapphire has been linked to spiritual qualities. Cultures worldwide have viewed the gem as a symbol of wisdom, protection, and good fortune.
Ancient beliefs suggest sapphires helped individuals connect with the spiritual world. The gem was believed to activate the mind, fostering wisdom and learning. In modern metaphysical practices, sapphire is thought to stimulate the throat and third eye chakras, facilitating access to deeper levels of consciousness. The stone is also associated with the planet Saturn, with some linguists tracing the origin of the name “sapphire” to a Sanskrit phrase meaning “dear to Saturn.”
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of a sapphire requires proper care. Warm, soapy water is generally a safe and effective method for cleaning sapphires. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are typically safe for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated stones. However, caution is advised for stones that have undergone fracture filling or dyeing, as these treatments can be damaged by harsh cleaning methods. Such stones should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. Regular cleaning will help preserve the brilliance and luster of this remarkable gemstone.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones. From its ancient origins as a symbol of protection and wisdom to its modern status as a cherished birthstone and a beacon of elegance, sapphire continues to captivate and inspire. Its exceptional durability, combined with its stunning array of colors and rich historical significance, ensures its place as one of the world’s most prized and beloved gems. The September birthstone remains a symbol of truth, faithfulness, and nobility, embodying a legacy that spans millennia.