Sapphire, the birthstone for September, is a gem renowned for its deep blue hue and storied history. As a variety of the mineral corundum, it is one of the most prized precious gemstones, alongside diamond, emerald, and ruby. The name "sapphire" is derived from the Greek word sappheiros and the Latin sapphirus, both meaning "blue," though the gem occurs in a spectrum of colors. For centuries, sapphire has been associated with royalty, romance, and truth, symbolizing sincerity, faithfulness, and nobility. This article explores the gem's geological origins, its journey through history and lore, its essential gemological properties, and practical guidance for its care, drawing exclusively from authoritative sources.
History and Lore: From Ancient Protection to Modern Standardization
The association of sapphire with September is a relatively modern convention, yet the gem's significance stretches back millennia. Historical records indicate that sapphire has been cherished for thousands of years. The elite of ancient Greece and Rome believed that blue sapphires offered protection from harm and envy. In the Middle Ages, clerics wore sapphires as symbols of Heaven, and ancient Persians held a cosmological belief that the Earth rested upon a giant sapphire, which colored the sky blue.
Beyond its symbolic power, sapphire was also attributed with healing properties. Medieval Europeans believed it could cure plague boils and diseases of the eye, and it was thought to be an antidote to poison. The gem's reputation for wisdom and clarity of thought is reflected in the Gregorian birthstone poem: "A maiden born when September leaves / Are rustling in September’s breeze, / A sapphire on her brow should bind / `Twill cure diseases of the mind."
The formalization of sapphire as September's birthstone began in the 19th century. In 1870, Tiffany & Co. published a pamphlet of birthstone poems, which included sapphire for September. The first official standardized list was created in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America), followed by a 1937 list by the British National Association of Goldsmiths. These lists cemented sapphire's status as the modern birthstone for September in both the United States and Britain.
Sapphire's historical and cultural significance is also marked by famous individual stones. Notable examples include the Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone unearthed in Myanmar (Burma).
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of corundum, a gem form of crystalline aluminum oxide (chemical formula Al₂O₃). This is the same mineral species as ruby, with the red variety of corundum designated as ruby. The blue color in sapphire is primarily due to trace amounts of iron and titanium. While the most sought-after variety is blue, sapphires occur in a wide range of colors, including green, white, and red, depending on the trace elements present.
The formation of sapphire occurs under specific geological conditions, typically in metamorphic rocks or in certain igneous environments. However, the provided sources do not offer detailed information on the specific processes of sapphire formation or a comprehensive list of mining locations beyond the mention of Myanmar (Burma) as the source of the Rockefeller Sapphire. For the purposes of this article, we must rely on the available data, which focuses more on the gem's properties and lore than on its geology.
Gemological Properties
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.
Durability and Hardness: Sapphire is among the toughest gems in nature. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, corundum (sapphire and ruby) ranks at 9, just below diamond (10). This high hardness makes sapphire highly resistant to scratching and abrasion, contributing to its longevity in jewelry settings.
Color and Composition: The primary color of the September birthstone is a deep, vivid blue, but the gem's color range is extensive. As a variety of corundum, sapphire is defined as any corundum that is not red (which is classified as ruby). The presence of trace elements like iron and titanium is responsible for the blue coloration, while other elements can produce yellow, green, pink, or colorless varieties. The name "sapphire" itself, rooted in words meaning "blue," underscores the cultural primacy of the blue variety, which is the most popular and widely recognized.
Cut and Carat: Sapphires are cut into various shapes to maximize their color and brilliance. The Rockefeller Sapphire, for example, is a rectangular step cut. As a precious gemstone, sapphire is valued by carat weight, with larger stones being particularly rare and valuable.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of sapphire as derived from the provided sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Corundum (Al₂O₃) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9 |
| Typical Colors | Blue (most popular), also pink, yellow, green, white, colorless |
| Primary Trace Elements (for blue) | Iron and Titanium |
| Status | One of the four precious gemstones (alongside diamond, emerald, ruby) |
| Birthstone Month | September (Modern, US & UK) |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, sapphire has been imbued with profound symbolic meaning. It has traditionally symbolized sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. Its association with royalty and the clergy is well-documented, and it was believed to represent the soul and symbolize fidelity.
Metaphysical beliefs attribute a range of powers to sapphire. It is said to bring inner peace, stave off depression, and encourage clear thinking, confidence, and inner strength. Some sources describe it as a stone of protection, shielding the wearer from negativity. These beliefs, while not scientifically verified, are part of the gem's enduring cultural legacy.
It is important to note that the provided sources also mention other gemstones associated with September in various historical or cultural calendars. For instance, the old Tibetan calendar lists Agate as a September birthstone, believed to enhance intelligence and increase eloquence. The old Roman and Polish calendar listed Sardonyx, a variety of onyx with red bands, believed to enhance courage. Zircon is the September birthstone in the Hindu calendar, popular in its blue variety and believed to bring peace and prosperity. Moonstone was a traditional September birthstone in India, believed to relieve anxiety. Peridot is also listed as a traditional September birthstone. However, among these, sapphire is unequivocally the modern, internationally recognized birthstone for September.
Care and Cleaning
Given its exceptional hardness (9 on the Mohs scale), sapphire is a durable gemstone suitable for various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, and pendants. Its toughness makes it resistant to chipping and breaking under normal wear.
For cleaning, sapphire can be safely washed with warm water, a mild soap, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for sapphire, but caution is advised if the stone has been treated or has inclusions. Steam cleaning is also typically safe. As with any gemstone, it is wise to avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes. Due to its hardness, sapphire should be stored separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching softer gems.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as the definitive birthstone for September, a gem of remarkable beauty, historical depth, and enduring symbolism. From its ancient origins as a protective talisman for royalty and clergy to its modern status as a symbol of fidelity and wisdom, sapphire has captivated humanity for millennia. Its scientific identity as a variety of corundum, with a hardness of 9 and a chemical composition of aluminum oxide, underpins its durability and value. While other stones like peridot, sardonyx, and zircon have held places in historical birthstone lists, sapphire's prominence in contemporary tradition is undisputed. For those born in September or seeking a gem that embodies truth, loyalty, and strength, sapphire remains an unparalleled choice, a timeless treasure that bridges the worlds of science, history, and lore.