Sapphire, the celebrated birthstone of September, is a gem that has captivated humanity for millennia. While the term commonly evokes images of deep, celestial blue, sapphire is a member of the corundum mineral family, which includes the red ruby, and it occurs in a remarkable spectrum of colors, excluding red. Its designation as September’s primary birthstone is a relatively modern standardization, but its historical significance stretches back to ancient civilizations that revered it for its perceived protective powers and its association with wisdom and nobility. This article explores the multifaceted nature of sapphire, from its geological origins and gemological properties to its rich tapestry of historical lore and its enduring role in contemporary culture. We will also examine the other gemstones that have been historically linked to September, providing a comprehensive overview of the month’s birthstone heritage.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is deeply intertwined with the annals of human civilization, where it has been a symbol of power, wisdom, and divine favor. In ancient Greece and Rome, the elite believed that blue sapphires offered protection from harm and envy, viewing the gem as a talisman of safety. This protective quality extended into the Middle Ages, where clerics wore sapphires to symbolize Heaven, and medieval Europeans attributed to the stone the ability to cure plague boils and diseases of the eye, as well as to serve as an antidote to poison. A particularly poetic ancient Persian belief held that the Earth rested upon a giant sapphire, and that the reflection of this stone gave the sky its blue hue. The stone was also reputed to promote mental clarity and serenity, making it a favored choice for scholars and spiritual seekers.
The journey of sapphire to its modern status as the September birthstone began to formalize in the 19th century. A pivotal moment occurred in 1870 when Tiffany & Co. published a pamphlet of birthstone poems, which listed sapphire for September. However, the first official, standardized list was created in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewellers (now known as Jewelers of America). This initiative sought to create a unified list, and it firmly established sapphire as the primary birthstone for September. This standardization was followed by a 1937 list from the British National Association of Goldsmiths, further cementing sapphire’s position in the Western tradition.
While sapphire is the most widely recognized birthstone for September, historical and cultural traditions have also associated other gemstones with this month. Peridot, for instance, has a complex history; some ancient calendars designated peridot for September, though it is now more commonly recognized as the birthstone for August. In the Tibetan tradition, agate is considered a September birthstone, valued for its believed ability to enhance intelligence and eloquence. In Indian tradition, zircon is associated with September, known for its brilliance and fire. Another significant alternative is lapis lazuli, an opaque deep blue gem with golden speckling, which was revered in ancient Egypt, used by royalty like Pharaoh Tutankhamun, and ground into the prized ultramarine pigment for medieval religious art.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which has a chemical composition of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). It forms under specific geological conditions, typically in metamorphic rocks such as gneiss and schist, and in alluvial deposits where water has eroded and transported the crystals from their original host rock. Sapphires typically form prismatic or tabular crystals with a hexagonal cross section.
The sources of sapphire are diverse and geographically widespread. One of the most famous sources is Myanmar (Burma), which has produced legendary stones such as the Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone. Other significant mining locations for blue sapphires include Sri Lanka, Kashmir, and Madagascar. Fancy-colored sapphires (those that are not blue) are also mined in various locations, including Sri Lanka and Madagascar, contributing to the gem’s celebrated color diversity. The specific geological conditions in these regions influence the color and quality of the sapphires found there, with trace elements like iron and titanium contributing to the blue hue, and other elements like chromium and vanadium producing pinks, purples, and yellows.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire is renowned for its exceptional physical and optical properties, which contribute to its durability and beauty. As a member of the corundum family, it is one of the hardest natural substances on Earth, ranking a 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes sapphire highly resistant to scratching and ideal for jewelry that is worn daily, such as engagement rings and pendants.
Key Gemological Properties of Sapphire:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Corundum |
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ (Aluminum Oxide) |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Mohs Hardness | 9 |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 - 1.770 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.99 - 4.00 |
| Optical Character | Uniaxial (-) |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
The color of sapphire is its most defining characteristic. While blue is the classic and most sought-after variety, sapphires can occur in every hue of the rainbow, including pink, yellow, green, purple, and orange. The only color that corundum does not naturally produce is red, as that variety is classified as ruby. The clarity of sapphire can vary; some stones are virtually inclusion-free, while others may contain inclusions that are characteristic of their origin. For example, silk-like rutile inclusions can create a star effect (asterism) in cabochon-cut sapphires, producing a six-rayed star. Sapphires are typically cut into a variety of shapes to maximize their color and brilliance, with the oval and cushion cuts being particularly popular for blue sapphires.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its physical beauty, sapphire carries a profound weight of symbolism and metaphysical belief. Historically, it has symbolized sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. These associations have made it a favorite among royalty and clergy for centuries. In modern metaphysical practices, sapphire is often linked to the Third Eye and Throat chakras, believed to facilitate mental clarity, intuition, and honest communication.
The gem’s perceived properties extend to emotional and spiritual well-being. It is thought to promote serenity and peace, helping to calm an overactive mind and reduce stress. Some traditions associate sapphire with attracting abundance and good fortune, while others emphasize its role as a stone of wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. The varied colors of sapphire are sometimes ascribed different metaphysical properties; for instance, yellow sapphire is linked to prosperity and joy, while pink sapphire is connected to love and compassion.
It is important to note that while these beliefs are deeply rooted in cultural and historical traditions, they are not supported by scientific evidence. The metaphysical attributes of sapphire, like those of all gemstones, are a matter of personal belief and cultural interpretation rather than gemological fact.
Care and Cleaning
Given its exceptional hardness, sapphire is a durable gemstone suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications. However, proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance and longevity. Sapphires can be cleaned safely using warm water, a mild detergent, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for sapphire, but steam cleaning should be avoided if the stone has been fracture-filled or if it contains significant inclusions that could be exacerbated by heat and vibration.
While sapphire is resistant to scratching, it can still be damaged by sharp blows due to its cleavage (a tendency to break along certain planes). It is advisable to remove sapphire jewelry during activities that could subject it to impact, such as heavy manual work or sports. When storing sapphire jewelry, keep it separate from other gemstones and jewelry to prevent scratches, preferably in a fabric-lined box or a soft pouch.
Conclusion
Sapphire stands as the quintessential birthstone for September, a gem whose legacy is built on a foundation of remarkable physical properties, deep historical significance, and enduring symbolic power. From its ancient role as a protective talisman for royalty and clergy to its modern status as a symbol of wisdom and fidelity, sapphire has maintained its revered position across cultures and centuries. Its geological formation in diverse locales around the world yields a spectrum of colors that continues to inspire jewelers and gem enthusiasts alike. While sapphire is the primary and most recognized birthstone for September, the month’s gemstone history is enriched by the inclusion of stones like lapis lazuli, peridot, and agate in various traditions. Ultimately, whether chosen for its stunning beauty, its legendary durability, or its rich tapestry of meaning, sapphire remains a timeless and powerful gemstone, perfectly embodying the transition and depth of the month of September.