The sapphire, with its profound and captivating blue hues, stands as the celebrated birthstone for the month of September. Revered for centuries, this precious gemstone is a variety of the mineral corundum, a testament to nature's ability to create substances of exceptional hardness and beauty. While the deep, cornflower blue is its most iconic and prized coloration, the sapphire encompasses a breathtaking spectrum of shades, earning it a reputation for both regal tradition and versatile modernity. Its name, derived from the Greek word sappheiros, has long been synonymous with the color blue itself, yet the gem's true identity is far more complex and intriguing.
As a symbol of wisdom, truth, and fidelity, the sapphire has been a favorite of royalty, clergy, and spiritual leaders throughout history. Its journey from ancient talisman to a modern emblem of commitment and insight is a rich narrative woven through geological time and human culture. This article will delve into the multifaceted world of the sapphire, exploring its historical significance, the geological processes that forge it, its precise gemological characteristics, and the enduring symbolism that continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike. We will also provide practical guidance on how to care for this durable yet precious gem, ensuring its brilliance endures for generations.
History and Lore: The Gem of Kings and Clergy
The sapphire's history is as deep and layered as its most celebrated color. For countless centuries, this gem has been a fixture of power and piety, adorning the crowns of monarchs and the robes of high-ranking clergy. The elite of ancient Greece and Rome were among the first to recognize its purported protective qualities, believing that blue sapphires could shield their owners from envy and harm. This belief in its defensive power established the sapphire as a stone of the powerful and the virtuous.
During the Middle Ages, the sapphire took on a profound spiritual significance. Clerics wore the gem as a symbol of Heaven, believing its celestial blue represented divine favor and wisdom. The stone was not merely an ornament but a conduit to the divine. The ancient Persians held an even more cosmic belief, positing that the Earth rested upon a colossal sapphire, and it was the reflection of this immense gem that gave the sky its blue color.
Beyond its symbolic and ornamental value, the sapphire was also credited with potent healing powers. Medieval Europeans believed the stone could cure plague boils and diseases of the eye and serve as an antidote to poison. These beliefs, while not scientifically founded, underscore the gem's esteemed status in pre-modern medicine and alchemy.
The tradition of associating sapphire with royalty and romance has continued into the modern era. The famous Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone from Myanmar (Burma), is a prime example of a sapphire that has passed through the hands of the world's most influential figures. Its journey from a private collection to a celebrated gem highlights the sapphire's enduring allure and value.
The formalization of the sapphire as September's birthstone began in the commercial sphere. In 1870, Tiffany & Co. published a pamphlet featuring birthstone poems, which included sapphire for September. This was a precursor to the first official standardized list, created in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America). This list was later followed by a 1937 list from the British National Association of Goldsmiths, solidifying the sapphire's position as the definitive birthstone for the ninth month of the year.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which has a chemical composition of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The formation of this gemstone requires a specific and intense geological environment. Corundum is typically found in metamorphic rocks, such as gneiss and schist, or in certain igneous rocks like basalt. The process involves the crystallization of aluminum and oxygen under immense heat and pressure, often in the presence of other elements that act as impurities and give the sapphire its color.
The most prized and valuable blue sapphires are primarily sourced from a few key locations around the world. Historically, the mines of Myanmar (formerly Burma) have produced some of the finest "Burmese" sapphires, known for their rich, velvety blue with a subtle violet undertone. The Rockefeller Sapphire mentioned in the sources is a testament to the quality of gems from this region.
Another significant source is Kashmir, a region located on the border of India and Pakistan. Sapphires from this area, often referred to as "Kashmir sapphires," are renowned for their unique "cornflower" blue color and a characteristic velvety texture that diffuses light beautifully. These gems are exceptionally rare and command the highest prices in the market.
Other notable sources include Sri Lanka, which produces a wide range of sapphire colors, including the highly sought-after "padparadscha" sapphire—a rare and delicate blend of pink and orange. Thailand and Australia are also major producers of blue sapphires, though the gems from these locations may sometimes require heat treatment to enhance their color and clarity. Madagascar has emerged as a significant source in recent years, yielding sapphires in a variety of colors.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of sapphire is essential for appreciating its durability and beauty. As a member of the corundum family, it shares characteristics with ruby but is distinguished by its color palette.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum |
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ |
| Color | Blue (most common), Pink, Yellow, Green, White, Padparadscha, etc. |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9 |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 - 1.770 |
| Specific Gravity | 4.00 (+/- 0.05) |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like) |
Color The most defining characteristic of the sapphire is its color. While the gem is celebrated for its deep, royal blue, it is important to note that sapphires occur in a rainbow of shades, known as "fancy sapphires." The classic and most valuable shade is a rich, deep blue, sometimes described as a "cornflower blue" or "medium dark violetish blue." The sources consistently emphasize that while blue is the primary color associated with September, fancy sapphires in pink, yellow, green, and white are also available and cherished.
The color in sapphires is a result of trace impurities within the corundum's crystal structure. The iconic blue hue is primarily caused by the presence of iron and titanium. The concentration of these elements dictates the depth and saturation of the blue. For example, a higher concentration of iron can lead to a darker, sometimes greenish-blue sapphire, while the absence of iron can result in a lighter blue.
Hardness and Durability Sapphire boasts an exceptional hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it second only to diamond among all naturally occurring gems. This remarkable durability makes it an ideal choice for all types of jewelry, especially pieces worn daily like engagement rings and pendants. Its resistance to scratching and abrasion ensures that it will maintain its polish and brilliance for a lifetime with proper care.
Clarity and Cut Sapphires are classified as "Type II" gems by the GIA, which means they are typically found with some inclusions. Unlike diamonds, where flawless clarity is the ideal, minor inclusions are often accepted and even expected in natural sapphires. In fact, the presence of fine, needle-like inclusions, known as "silk," can sometimes be desirable as it can soften the stone's color and, in rare cases, produce the mesmerizing asterism (star effect) in star sapphires.
The cut of a sapphire is crucial for maximizing its color and brilliance. Gem cutters must carefully orient the rough crystal to display the best hue, as the color can vary in different directions. Common cuts for sapphires include oval, cushion, round, and emerald cuts, each chosen to best showcase the stone's unique color and properties.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sapphire is a gem steeped in symbolism and metaphysical lore, building upon its historical significance. Across cultures and eras, it has been consistently associated with positive virtues and spiritual powers.
Wisdom and Truth One of the most enduring associations of the sapphire is with wisdom. It is believed to facilitate clear thinking, enhance concentration, and stimulate the mind. This property made it a favorite among scholars and royalty. The gem has long been considered a stone of truth, sincerity, and integrity. It was thought that wearing a sapphire would prevent deceit and encourage honest communication.
Protection and Favor As noted in historical accounts, the sapphire was seen as a powerful protective talisman. It was believed to guard against harm, envy, and negative energies. Ancient Persians and medieval Europeans alike placed their faith in the stone's ability to shield the wearer. This protective quality extended to spiritual realms as well, with the gem symbolizing divine favor and a connection to the heavens.
Fidelity and Romance In the modern era, the sapphire has become a powerful symbol of fidelity and romantic commitment. This association was famously cemented when Prince Charles presented a blue sapphire and diamond engagement ring to Lady Diana Spencer, a ring now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales. This connection makes sapphire a popular choice for engagement rings and anniversary gifts, symbolizing loyalty and the enduring nature of love. The sources note that sapphire is given to celebrate the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries, with the Star Sapphire marking the traditional 65th anniversary.
Alternative September Birthstones
While blue sapphire is the official and most recognized birthstone for September, some traditional lists also include an alternative. The sources identify Lapis Lazuli as an alternative birthstone for September.
Lapis Lazuli is a deep, royal blue rock composed of multiple minerals, primarily lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. Unlike the transparent sapphire, lapis is opaque and often features golden flecks from pyrite inclusions, giving it a distinct, starry-night appearance. While it shares a similar blue color with sapphire, it is a completely different material in terms of composition, hardness (around 5 on the Mohs scale), and value. It has its own rich history, particularly in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, where it was used for ornamental objects, cosmetics, and jewelry. The inclusion of Lapis Lazuli as an alternative offers a more accessible option for those drawn to the deep blue hue associated with September.
Care and Cleaning
Given its exceptional hardness and durability, the sapphire is a relatively easy gemstone to care for, making it well-suited for a wide range of jewelry applications. However, proper maintenance is still essential to preserve its brilliance and structural integrity.
Daily Wear and Handling With a hardness of 9, sapphire is highly resistant to scratching from everyday materials like dust and quartz. It can be worn daily in rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings without significant risk of damage. However, like any gemstone, it can be chipped or fractured by a hard blow against a hard surface, so it is wise to remove sapphire jewelry during strenuous activities or when working with heavy objects.
Cleaning Methods The best way to clean a sapphire is with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, such as a baby toothbrush or a soft-bristled jewelry brush. Gently scrub the back and front of the stone and its setting to remove any accumulated oils, lotions, or dirt. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Sapphires can also be safely cleaned using commercial jewelry cleaning solutions or an ultrasonic cleaner, which uses high-frequency sound waves to dislodge dirt. However, it is crucial to first ensure that the sapphire's setting is secure and that there are no fractures or significant inclusions that could be aggravated by the vibrations. Steam cleaning is also generally safe for sapphires, but caution is advised if the stone has been fracture-filled or if the jewelry setting contains other, more delicate gems.
Storage When storing sapphire jewelry, keep it separate from other gems and jewelry pieces to prevent scratching. A fabric-lined jewelry box with individual compartments or a soft pouch is ideal. While sapphire is durable, it should be protected from extreme temperatures and sudden temperature changes, which could potentially cause damage to the stone or its setting.
Conclusion
The sapphire is a gemstone of unparalleled beauty, durability, and significance. Its deep, celestial blue has captured the human imagination for millennia, evolving from a symbol of divine power and protection into a modern emblem of wisdom, loyalty, and enduring romance. As the official birthstone for September, it offers a connection to a rich tapestry of history, geology, and lore.
From the ancient belief that the sky was a reflection of a colossal sapphire to its formal adoption in 19th and 20th-century birthstone lists, this gem has consistently held a place of honor. Its remarkable hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale ensures its longevity, making it a practical and cherished choice for jewelry that can be passed down through generations. Whether in its classic cornflower blue or in one of the many "fancy" colors, the sapphire remains a testament to nature's artistry. Its combination of aesthetic appeal, physical resilience, and profound symbolism ensures that the sapphire will continue to be a treasured gem for gemologists, jewelers, and anyone born in the month of September.