The gemstone designated for the month of September is the sapphire, a stone renowned for millennia for its profound blue hue. While the deep blue variety is the most iconic, the sapphire encompasses a spectrum of colors, all varieties of the mineral corundum. As one of the four precious gemstones, alongside diamond, ruby, and emerald, sapphire carries a weight of history, science, and symbolism that makes it a cornerstone of the gemological world.
The significance of the September birthstone extends beyond mere aesthetics; it is a gem deeply woven into the fabric of human culture. From the crowns of ancient kings to modern engagement rings, sapphire has been a constant symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. The word "sapphire" itself is derived from the Latin sapphirus and Greek sappheiros, both meaning "blue" or "precious stones," a testament to the stone's defining characteristic. While blue is the traditional color, sapphires appear in a rainbow of hues, including pink, yellow, green, and the rare padparadscha, offering a wide array of choices for those born in September.
History and Lore
The history of the sapphire is as rich and layered as the stone itself. It has been cherished since antiquity, not just for its beauty but for the powerful meanings attributed to it. Ancient civilizations viewed the sapphire as a celestial stone, a fragment of the heavens brought down to earth.
In ancient Greece and Rome, the elite believed that blue sapphires offered protection from harm and envy. The stone was thought to be a powerful talisman, capable of warding off negative energy and ensuring the wearer's safety. This belief in its protective qualities persisted through the Middle Ages. Clerics of that era wore sapphires to symbolize Heaven, and the stone was often used in religious contexts. The Persians held an even more cosmic belief: they thought the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, and that the reflection of this stone is what made the sky blue.
Beyond protection, the sapphire was also associated with healing. Medieval Europeans believed the stone could cure plague boils and diseases of the eye. It was also reputed to be an antidote to poison, a claim that made it a valuable asset in the treacherous courts of royalty.
The sapphire's association with royalty and romance is a thread that runs through its history. It has adorned the robes of clergy and the crowns of kings for countless centuries. This tradition continues today, most famously exemplified by the engagement ring worn by Princess Diana and now the Duchess of Cambridge, which features a stunning blue sapphire.
While the blue sapphire is the primary birthstone, other stones have historically been associated with September. Lapis Lazuli, another deep blue stone, is recognized as an alternative birthstone. Revered in ancient Egypt, it was used extensively by royalty, including Pharaoh Tutankhamun, whose sarcophagus was adorned with it. In medieval Europe, lapis lazuli was ground into a powder to create the highly prized pigment ultramarine, used in religious paintings. Other stones such as peridot, agate, zircon, and moonstone have also been mentioned in historical lists of September birthstones, each adding a unique layer to the month's gemological tapestry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). Its formation is a geological marvel, requiring specific and intense conditions. Corundum is created under metamorphic conditions, often in aluminum-rich rocks that have been subjected to high temperatures and pressures. Trace elements are responsible for the gem's diverse color palette. The iconic blue hue is primarily caused by the presence of iron and titanium within the crystal lattice. Other elements, such as chromium and vanadium, can produce pink and red colors (the latter being classified as ruby), while iron alone can result in yellow or green hues.
The world's most significant sapphire deposits are found in a variety of locations, each known for producing stones with distinct characteristics.
- Myanmar (Burma): This region is legendary for producing some of the finest "Burmese" rubies and sapphires. The famous Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat stone, was unearthed in Myanmar.
- Sri Lanka: Known for its "Ceylon" sapphires, Sri Lanka is a major source of high-quality blue and padparadscha sapphires.
- Kashmir: Sapphires from this region are prized for their velvety, cornflower-blue color and are among the most sought-after in the world.
- Thailand and Cambodia: These Southeast Asian countries are known for producing a significant portion of the world's commercial-grade blue sapphires.
- Australia: Australian sapphires are typically darker in color, often with a greenish or blackish undertone, but are still a significant source.
- United States: Montana is home to sapphire deposits, producing stones that are often lighter in color and found in riverbeds.
Lapis Lazuli, the alternative September birthstone, is not a single mineral but a rock composed primarily of the mineral lazurite, along with calcite and pyrite. Its formation occurs in contact metamorphic rocks, and its most famous and historically significant source is the Badakhshan province of Afghanistan, which has been the primary source for over 6,000 years. Other sources include Chile and Russia.
Gemological Properties
The sapphire is celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its exceptional durability, making it an ideal gemstone for jewelry that is worn daily.
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Corundum |
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9 |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 - 1.770 |
| Specific Gravity | 4.00 (+/- 0.10) |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
Hardness and Durability: On the Mohs scale of hardness, sapphire ranks at 9, second only to diamond (which ranks at 10). This makes it an exceptionally durable gemstone, resistant to scratching and abrasion. Its legendary durability means it can withstand the rigors of everyday wear, making it a perfect choice for rings, bracelets, and other frequently worn jewelry.
Color: While "sapphire" is synonymous with blue, the gem occurs in every color of the rainbow, except for red (which is classified as ruby). The most prized blue sapphires exhibit a vivid, velvety, cornflower-blue color. The color is a result of trace amounts of iron and titanium. Other popular colors include: * Pink Sapphire: Colored by chromium. * Yellow Sapphire: Colored by iron. * Padparadscha Sapphire: A rare and highly prized variety with a delicate pink-orange hue, often described as a "sunset" or "lotus" color. * White Sapphire: A colorless variety, sometimes used as a diamond alternative.
Clarity and Cut: Sapphires typically exhibit some inclusions, which are internal characteristics. Unlike diamonds, where clarity is paramount, inclusions in colored gemstones like sapphire are often more tolerated. In fact, some inclusions can be used to identify the geographic origin of the stone. Sapphires are cut in a variety of shapes to maximize their color and brilliance, with the oval, cushion, and round cuts being among the most popular.
Star Sapphires: A special variety of sapphire is the "star sapphire," which displays a six-rayed star phenomenon known as asterism. This is caused by needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile (known as silk) oriented within the stone. When cut en cabochon (a smooth, rounded dome shape), these inclusions reflect light to create a star that glides across the surface as the stone is moved. Star sapphires are traditionally given to celebrate the 65th wedding anniversary.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, the sapphire has been imbued with a deep sense of symbolism and has been a focal point for various metaphysical beliefs.
Symbolism: The primary symbolism associated with the sapphire includes: * Wisdom and Truth: The stone has long been considered a gem of wisdom, believed to bring clarity of thought and aid in decision-making. * Loyalty and Nobility: Its enduring color and durability made it a symbol of faithfulness and constancy. It is often given as a token of loyalty and is a popular choice for engagement rings. * Sincerity and Purity: The September birthstone has traditionally symbolized sincerity, truth, and purity of the soul.
Metaphysical and Healing Properties: In various spiritual and metaphysical traditions, sapphire is believed to possess powerful properties. * Mental Clarity: It is said to enhance mental clarity, improve focus, and aid in concentration, making it a favored stone for scholars and students. * Protection: The stone is believed to be a powerful protector against negative energy and harm. * Communication and Intuition: Sapphires are associated with the Throat Chakra (for communication and self-expression) and the Third Eye Chakra (for intuition and mental clarity). It is believed to help one speak their truth and access higher levels of consciousness. * Inner Peace: The stone is also thought to bring peace of mind and reduce stress and anxiety.
Lapis Lazuli also carries significant symbolic weight. Its deep blue flecked with golden pyrite inclusions was seen as a representation of the night sky. It was believed to promote mental clarity, serenity, and was a favorite among scholars and spiritual seekers.
Care and Cleaning
Given its exceptional hardness (9 on the Mohs scale), sapphire is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. Its durability makes it resistant to scratching and everyday wear and tear. However, proper care is still essential to maintain its brilliance.
Cleaning: The best way to clean a sapphire is with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. A mild dish soap diluted in lukewarm water is ideal. Use a soft-bristled brush, such as a baby toothbrush, to gently scrub the back and front of the stone, as well as the setting, to remove any accumulated dirt and oils. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to ensure no soap residue remains. It is also safe to use an ultrasonic cleaner for sapphires that do not have significant fractures or inclusions. Steam cleaning is also generally safe.
What to Avoid: While sapphire is very hard, it can be brittle and may chip if struck with considerable force. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as bleach or chlorine, which can damage the stone or its setting. It is always advisable to remove sapphire jewelry before engaging in activities that could cause impact or exposure to harsh substances.
Lapis Lazuli, being a softer rock (Mohs hardness of 5-5.5), requires more delicate care. It should be cleaned only with a soft, dry cloth and should not be exposed to heat or harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
The sapphire stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the natural world. As the official birthstone for September, it represents more than just a beautiful gem; it embodies a legacy of wisdom, loyalty, and strength. Its journey from the high-pressure environments of the Earth's crust to the hands of ancient royalty and modern jewelers is a story of geological wonder and human admiration. With its remarkable hardness, stunning range of colors, and deep symbolic meaning, the sapphire remains one of the most cherished and respected gemstones, a timeless treasure for those born in the month of September.