The September birthstone, traditionally associated with the deep blue of sapphire, has been reinterpreted in contemporary jewelry as a captivating blue crystal. This gemstone, celebrated for its vibrant hue and versatility, holds a unique place in the world of gemstones and jewelry. It serves not only as a symbol of personal significance for those born in September but also as a meaningful element for gifting and adornment. The renowned jewelry brand Kendra Scott has played a pivotal role in popularizing this modern representation of the September birthstone, integrating it into a diverse collection that highlights its beauty and accessibility. This article explores the gem's historical context, its specific application in Kendra Scott's designs, its symbolic meanings, and practical considerations for its care, drawing exclusively from the provided source materials.
Historical and Cultural Context
The concept of the September birthstone is deeply rooted in a long tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year. Historically, the primary gemstone for September has been sapphire, a gem revered across cultures for millennia. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, prized sapphire not merely for its aesthetic beauty but for its perceived protective and healing properties. It was often regarded as a symbol of wisdom, virtue, and divine favor, and its deep blue color was thought to connect the wearer to the heavens. This historical reverence established sapphire as a cornerstone of birthstone lore, carrying with it a legacy of spiritual and regal significance.
In the modern era, the interpretation of birthstones has evolved, allowing for a broader range of gemstones to represent each month. The blue crystal used by Kendra Scott is a contemporary embodiment of this tradition. While it may not possess the exact mineralogical composition of natural sapphire, it carries forward the symbolic legacy of its predecessor. The provided sources indicate that the blue crystal is often associated with the historical value placed on deep blue stones like sapphire and lapis lazuli. This connection allows the modern birthstone to maintain a link to the ancient beliefs of protection and healing, while offering a more accessible and versatile option for today's jewelry consumers. The evolution from a singular, precious stone like sapphire to a broader category of blue crystals reflects a shift in the jewelry market toward personalization and varied aesthetic choices.
Kendra Scott's Role in Popularizing the Blue Crystal
Kendra Scott, a prominent name in the jewelry industry, has significantly contributed to the popularity and visibility of the blue crystal as the September birthstone. Through its extensive collection of birthstone jewelry, the brand has introduced this gemstone to a wider audience, showcasing its beauty and versatility in a variety of designs. By offering a range of pieces that feature the blue crystal, Kendra Scott has made it easier for consumers to incorporate this meaningful gemstone into their jewelry collections.
The brand’s commitment to quality and design has also been instrumental in elevating the status of the blue crystal. Kendra Scott’s jewelry pieces are known for their high-quality materials, attention to detail, and timeless style. This has established the brand as a trusted name in the jewelry industry, and its use of the blue crystal has further enhanced its reputation as a leader in birthstone jewelry. The company's approach goes beyond mere product offerings; it actively contributes to the gemstone's popularity through strategic marketing and storytelling. Kendra Scott often highlights the significance of birthstone jewelry, emphasizing the personal and emotional value of these pieces. This narrative helps create a deeper connection between consumers and the blue crystal, encouraging them to view it not just as a decorative element but as a meaningful symbol of identity and relationships.
The Kendra Scott September Birthstone Collection
Kendra Scott's September birthstone collection is designed to highlight the beauty of the blue crystal through a range of jewelry pieces, including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. These pieces are crafted to incorporate the brand's signature style of minimalist and elegant design, making the blue crystal both a focal point and a complementary element.
A standout piece in the collection is the Elisa Necklace. This necklace is a central offering in the brand’s birthstone series and is available in both gold and rhodium-plated options. It features a blue crystal at its center, presented in a simple yet striking design. The Elisa Necklace is part of a broader collection that includes matching pieces such as the Ellie Earrings and the Elaina Bracelet, allowing for coordinated sets. Its versatility is a key attribute, as it can be worn as a standalone piece for a subtle statement or layered with other necklaces for a more dramatic, layered look. The availability in different metal finishes—specifically 14k Gold Plated Over Brass and Rhodium (Silver Plated over Brass)—provides options to suit various personal styles and preferences.
Another notable piece is the Cailin Pendant Necklace, which is offered in both gold and silver options. The Cailin Pendant features a blue crystal at its center and is designed to be a simple yet striking addition to any jewelry collection. Its understated elegance makes it ideal for those who prefer a more minimalist aesthetic, as it can be easily paired with other jewelry pieces without overwhelming the wearer’s style.
For those interested in earrings, the Ellie Earrings are designed to complement the Elisa Necklace. These earrings feature the blue crystal and are available in the same gold and rhodium-plated finishes, creating a cohesive look when worn as a set.
The specific blue crystal used in Kendra Scott's September collection is identified as a Cobalt Cat’s Eye. This term describes a gemstone with a distinctive optical phenomenon known as chatoyancy, which creates a narrow band of light that moves across the stone's surface, resembling a cat's eye. The "cobalt" descriptor suggests a rich, deep blue color. This specific type of crystal offers a unique visual appeal, with its shimmering effect adding depth and movement to the jewelry pieces.
The collection also demonstrates a thoughtful approach to metal choices, which is crucial for both aesthetic and practical reasons. The primary metals used are 14k Gold Plated Over Brass and Rhodium Plated Over Brass (often referred to as silver). Brass provides a durable and cost-effective base, while the plating offers the desired color and finish. Gold plating provides a warm, classic look, while rhodium plating offers a bright, cool, and tarnish-resistant silver finish. This range ensures that the September birthstone jewelry can be integrated into any existing jewelry wardrobe, regardless of the wearer's preferred metal tone.
Gemological Properties and the "Blue Crystal" Designation
Within the context of Kendra Scott's collection, the term "blue crystal" is used as a descriptive label for the gemstone material rather than a specific mineralogical classification. The provided sources identify the specific stone as Cobalt Cat’s Eye. It is important to note that the sources do not provide detailed gemological data such as chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or specific gravity for this crystal. This lack of technical data is common in fashion and fine jewelry contexts where the focus is on design, color, and symbolic meaning rather than scientific classification.
The term "crystal" in this context likely refers to a man-made or synthetic material, such as glass or a lab-created crystal, designed to emulate the appearance of natural gemstones. This approach allows for consistent color, clarity, and availability, which is essential for mass-produced jewelry lines. The Cat’s Eye effect is an optical property that can be found in both natural and synthetic materials, such as quartz or glass. The use of a synthetic material does not diminish its value as a piece of jewelry; rather, it makes the September birthstone accessible at a more attainable price point while still offering a beautiful and symbolic adornment.
The color "cobalt blue" is a specific shade of blue known for its intensity and depth. This choice of color directly connects to the historical association of September with deep blue gemstones like sapphire. By using a cobalt-colored crystal, Kendra Scott maintains the traditional color symbolism of the September birthstone while utilizing a modern, versatile material.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism attached to the September birthstone, whether in its traditional sapphire form or its modern blue crystal incarnation, is rich and varied. Historically, sapphire has been associated with wisdom, truth, and spiritual enlightenment. It was believed to protect the wearer from harm and to attract divine favor. These ancient beliefs have been carried forward into contemporary interpretations of the September birthstone.
The blue crystal, as presented by Kendra Scott, inherits this legacy of protection and positive energy. The act of giving or receiving birthstone jewelry is imbued with personal significance, serving as a token of identity, a celebration of a birthday, or a gesture of love and remembrance. The sources emphasize that the blue crystal is not merely a decorative item but a meaningful symbol that connects individuals to their personal stories and relationships. This emotional resonance is a key factor in the enduring popularity of birthstone jewelry.
For those who follow metaphysical traditions, the blue color of the crystal is often linked to the Throat Chakra, which is associated with communication, self-expression, and truth. Wearing a blue stone is believed to facilitate clear communication and inner peace. While these beliefs are not scientifically verified, they form an important part of the cultural and personal significance that many people attach to their birthstone.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of jewelry featuring a blue crystal. While the exact hardness and durability of Kendra Scott's Cobalt Cat’s Eye stone are not specified in the sources, general guidelines for crystal and glass-based jewelry can be applied.
- Cleaning: To clean the blue crystal, use a soft, lint-free cloth. For more thorough cleaning, a mild soap and lukewarm water solution can be used. Gently scrub the stone with a soft-bristled brush, such as a baby toothbrush, to remove any dirt or residue from its setting. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can damage the crystal or the metal plating.
- Storage: Store the jewelry separately in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches. Keep it away from direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as some crystals and metals can fade or tarnish when exposed to excessive light and heat.
- Handling: While the jewelry is designed for everyday wear, it is advisable to remove it before engaging in activities that may cause impact or exposure to harsh substances, such as swimming (chlorine), cleaning (chemicals), or heavy physical work. This will help preserve the integrity of the crystal and the metal plating.
- Metal Plating: The 14k gold and rhodium plating on brass can wear over time with frequent use. To minimize wear, avoid contact with lotions, perfumes, and hairsprays, and always remove jewelry before washing hands or showering. If the plating eventually wears, the underlying brass may become visible, but the stone itself will remain intact.
By following these care instructions, owners can ensure that their September birthstone jewelry remains a cherished piece for years to come.
Conclusion
The September birthstone, as represented by the blue crystal in Kendra Scott's collection, is a compelling example of how traditional gemstone symbolism can be adapted for modern tastes and accessibility. While it differs from the historically revered sapphire in composition, it successfully carries forward the legacy of deep blue gemstones associated with this month. Kendra Scott's role has been instrumental in this evolution, transforming the blue crystal into a popular and meaningful choice for birthstone jewelry through its focus on design, quality, and narrative.
The collection, featuring pieces like the Elisa Necklace and the Cailin Pendant, offers versatility and elegance, allowing the stone to be a personal adornment or a thoughtful gift. The use of the Cobalt Cat’s Eye crystal provides a unique visual appeal with its chatoyant effect, while the range of metal finishes ensures broad accessibility. Ultimately, the September birthstone, in its contemporary form, continues to serve its timeless purpose: to mark personal identity, celebrate connections, and bring a touch of symbolic beauty into the lives of those who wear it. Its journey from ancient royal regalia to a modern jewelry box staple underscores the enduring human fascination with color, symbolism, and personal expression through gemstones.