For millennia, the sapphire has captivated humanity with its profound blue hues and unwavering durability. As the official birthstone for the month of September, this gemstone is more than a mere accessory; it is a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility, deeply woven into the tapestry of human history and culture. Belonging to the corundum mineral family, the sapphire is renowned for its deep blue color, though it manifests in a stunning array of "fancy" hues. This article explores the multifaceted nature of the September birthstone, delving into its rich history and lore, its geological origins, its precise gemological properties, and the symbolic meanings that continue to resonate with wearers today.
History and Lore
The sapphire's legacy is as enduring as the gem itself. Its name is derived from the Greek word sappheiros and the Latin sapphirus, both meaning simply "blue." This etymology reflects the stone's most famous characteristic, even as the gem exhibits a wide spectrum of colors. Throughout history, sapphire has been consistently ranked among the four most prized precious gemstones, alongside diamond, emerald, and ruby.
Ancient civilizations attributed immense power and protective qualities to the sapphire. In ancient Greece and Rome, the elite believed that blue sapphires could shield their owners from harm and envy. The stone's connection to the heavens is a recurring theme in historical lore. Medieval clergy wore sapphires as a symbol of Heaven, and ordinary citizens believed the gem could attract heavenly blessings. This celestial association was so strong that ancient Persians held a cosmological belief: the earth rested upon a giant sapphire, and the sky's blue color was a reflection of this colossal gem.
The sapphire's reputation extends beyond protection to healing. Medieval Europeans prescribed the stone as a cure for plague boils and diseases of the eye, and it was also thought to be an effective antidote to poison. In Greek mythology, the stone was linked to deities such as Zeus and Apollo, further cementing its status as a gem of divine favor. The journey of the sapphire from an object of ancient belief to a modern birthstone was formalized in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers, which established the official list of birthstones, a tradition that has been periodically updated but has kept sapphire as the definitive gem for September.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, which has the chemical composition of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). It is the same mineral as ruby, with the color difference determined by trace impurities. Corundum is formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, typically in metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss, or in certain igneous rocks like basalt. The presence of iron and titanium trace elements within the crystal lattice is responsible for the coveted blue coloration; the concentration of these elements dictates the depth and intensity of the blue hue.
Historically, some of the most important sources for fine sapphires have been located in Asia. The Kashmir region, Myanmar (formerly Burma), and Sri Lanka are particularly renowned for their high-quality deposits. The sapphire was first discovered in Kashmir around 1881, following a landslide that revealed the gems in a remote valley. Sapphires from this region are prized for their velvety, cornflower-blue color. Myanmar, especially the Mogok region, is another legendary source, producing sapphires with a vivid, saturated blue. Sri Lanka, often called the "Island of Gems," has been a continuous source of sapphires for over two millennia, known for producing a wide range of colors, including the famous "padparadscha" sapphire, which exhibits a delicate pink-orange hue. While these historical sources remain significant, sapphires are also mined in other locations worldwide, including Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, and parts of Africa.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of sapphire is essential for appreciating its value and durability. As a member of the corundum family, it shares many characteristics with ruby but is distinguished by its color palette.
Physical and Chemical Characteristics
- Chemical Formula: Al₂O₃ (Aluminum Oxide)
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale. This exceptional hardness makes sapphire one of the most durable natural gemstones, second only to diamond. This property allows it to be worn daily in all types of jewelry without fear of scratching or abrasion.
- Refractive Index: 1.762 to 1.770
- Specific Gravity: 3.99 to 4.00
- Luster: Vitreous (glass-like)
Color
The color of sapphire is its defining feature. While "sapphire" typically refers to the blue variety, the term encompasses all corundum gems except for red (which is ruby). The presence of trace elements dictates the color: * Blue: Caused by iron and titanium. The more iron present, the darker the blue. * Yellow and Orange: Result from iron and chromium. * Pink: Caused by high amounts of chromium. * Purple: A combination of iron, titanium, and chromium. * Green: Caused by a mix of iron, titanium, and chromium, though green sapphires are less common.
These non-blue sapphires are classified as "fancy sapphires." Some sapphires also exhibit color change, appearing blue in one light source (e.g., daylight) and violet or purple in another (e.g., incandescent light).
Clarity and Cut
Sapphires are typically cut into faceted shapes like oval, cushion, and round brilliant to maximize their color and brilliance. They can also be cut into cabochons, especially if they exhibit asterism (a star-like optical effect caused by needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile). Inclusions are common in natural sapphires and can be used to identify their origin. For example, fine, silky inclusions can give Kashmir sapphires their velvety appearance, which is often considered a desirable characteristic.
A Note on Famous Sapphires
The gem's enduring appeal is exemplified by notable specimens. The Rockefeller Sapphire, a 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone unearthed in Myanmar, is a famous example of the gem's potential for size and beauty.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sapphire's rich symbolism is a direct continuation of its historical lore. For centuries, it has been associated with sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. These attributes have made it a favorite among royalty and a symbol of lasting commitment, which is why it is traditionally gifted for the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries.
In modern metaphysical circles, the sapphire is believed to possess specific powers. It is said to promote wisdom and clear thinking, encouraging confidence and inner strength. For those born in September, it is considered a stone of protection, shielding the wearer from harm and envy. Its association with loyalty makes it a popular choice for engagement rings, famously worn by royalty, symbolizing a deep and enduring bond. The belief in its healing powers has evolved; while no longer used as a medical cure, many still view the sapphire as a talisman for mental clarity and spiritual insight.
Care and Cleaning
The exceptional hardness of sapphire (9 on the Mohs scale) makes it relatively easy to care for, but certain precautions are necessary to maintain its beauty.
- Cleaning: Sapphires can be safely cleaned with warm water, a mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated and heat-treated sapphires, but should be avoided for stones with significant fractures or fractures filled with lead glass. Steam cleaning is also acceptable for most sapphires but should be avoided for stones with fractures.
- Storage: While sapphire is very hard, it can scratch other gemstones and metals. It should be stored separately, ideally in a soft cloth pouch or a compartmentalized jewelry box.
- Durability Considerations: Although sapphire is highly resistant to scratching, it can be brittle and may cleave or fracture if struck with sufficient force at certain angles. Therefore, it is advisable to remove sapphire jewelry during activities that could subject it to hard impacts.
Conclusion
The sapphire stands as a testament to nature's artistry and humanity's enduring fascination with beauty and meaning. From its ancient origins as a celestial stone believed to hold the sky's color to its modern status as a cherished birthstone and anniversary gem, the sapphire continues to inspire. Its remarkable hardness ensures it can be passed down through generations, while its spectrum of colors offers a personal expression for every wearer. For those born in September, the sapphire is not merely a birthstone; it is a gem of profound history, scientific wonder, and deep personal significance, embodying the virtues of wisdom, loyalty, and truth.