September is traditionally synonymous with the sapphire, a gem revered for its deep, celestial blue and royal associations. However, the history of birthstones is a tapestry woven with diverse cultural threads, and the month of September is no exception. While the sapphire holds a firm place in modern tradition, a rich array of alternative gemstones has been linked to September throughout history and across various cultures. These stones offer a personalized connection to the month, extending beyond the well-known blue classic to encompass a spectrum of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. This article delves into the world of September’s alternative birthstones, exploring their geological origins, gemological properties, historical lore, and the reasons one might choose them. From the ancient allure of lapis lazuli to the vibrant greens of peridot and the fiery hues of carnelian, these gems provide a compelling alternative for those seeking a stone that resonates with their personal style, heritage, or spiritual beliefs.
History and Lore: The Evolution of a September Tradition
The practice of assigning specific gemstones to each month has evolved over centuries, influenced by ancient calendars, zodiacal connections, and cultural beliefs. While sapphire has become firmly established as the primary September birthstone in modern Western tradition, alternative associations are deeply rooted in history. Ancient calendars, including those of Italy, Russia, Hebrew, and Arabic traditions, once designated peridot as the September birthstone. This practice continued until 1912, when peridot became officially associated with August. Lapis lazuli, with its striking blue hue, was often mistaken for sapphire in ancient times, leading to its adoption as a September stone. In the Hindu calendar, zircon is recognized as the September gemstone, particularly in its blue variety. The old Tibetan calendar lists agate as the birthstone for September, with sardonyx—a banded variety of agate—also being considered a traditional stone for the month. The selection of alternative birthstones often reflects a desire for personalization and a connection to specific energies or symbolism. Choosing a stone beyond sapphire allows individuals to align with a gem that resonates with their personal style, cultural heritage, or spiritual beliefs. The practice of selecting alternative stones also acknowledges the historical fluidity of these associations, recognizing that the tradition of birthstones is not static but has evolved over centuries.
Geological Formation and Sources
The alternative September birthstones are formed through a variety of geological processes and are mined in different regions around the world. Understanding their origins provides insight into their unique characteristics and rarity.
Lapis Lazuli is not a single mineral but a rock composed primarily of the mineral lazurite, along with calcite and pyrite. This composition gives it a distinctive deep blue color, often flecked with golden pyrite inclusions. Lapis lazuli has been mined for thousands of years. One of the most historically significant sources is the Sar-e-Sang mine in Afghanistan, which dates back to the 7th millennium BC. Today, Afghanistan remains a major producer of high-quality lapis lazuli, along with neighboring Pakistan.
Zircon is a naturally occurring mineral that forms in the cavities of igneous rocks like granite. It is found in a variety of colors, including blue, which can resemble sapphire. Major sources for zircon include Australia, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. The blue color in zircon is often achieved through heat treatment of brownish zircon, a common practice in the gem trade.
Carnelian is a variety of the mineral chalcedony, a form of quartz. Its distinctive reddish-orange to brownish-red color is due to iron oxide impurities. Carnelian is mined in various locations, including India, Brazil, and Uruguay. It has been used since antiquity, with significant sources found in the ancient world.
Aventurine is another variety of chalcedony, specifically a form of quartz that contains platy inclusions of minerals like mica or hematite, which give it a shimmering or sparkling effect known as aventurescence. It is most commonly found in shades of green, but can also occur in blue, red, and brown. Major sources for aventurine include India, Brazil, and Russia. The green variety is particularly associated with the zodiac sign Virgo.
Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, which is formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity. It is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color, a distinctive olive green, though the intensity can vary. Peridot is mined in several locations, including Pakistan, Arizona (USA), and Egypt. Ancient Egyptians mined peridot on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea.
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide mineral that forms in metamorphic rocks. It is found in a wide range of colors, including blue, pink, red, and violet. Major sources include Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Tanzania. Spinel was historically mistaken for ruby and sapphire, and it was only in modern times that it was recognized as a distinct gemstone.
Iolite is a variety of the mineral cordierite. It is known for its violet-blue color and strong pleochroism, meaning it shows different colors when viewed from different angles. Iolite is found in India, Sri Lanka, and Brazil. Its name is derived from the Greek word for violet.
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, colored by vanadium. It is known for its brilliant bluish-violet color. Tanzanite is found exclusively in a small area of Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro, making it one of the rarest gemstones on Earth. It was discovered in the 1960s and has since gained immense popularity.
Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral of aluminum and fluorine. Its blue color is typically the result of irradiation and heat treatment of colorless topaz. Major sources include Brazil, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka. It is widely available and more affordable than sapphire.
Gemological Properties
The alternative September birthstones exhibit a range of gemological properties, influencing their appearance, durability, and value. The following table summarizes key properties for several of these stones.
| Gemstone | Mineral Group | Chemical Composition | Mohs Hardness | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lapis Lazuli | Rock (Lazurite, Calcite, Pyrite) | (Na,Ca)8(AlSiO4)6(S,SO4,Cl)2 | 5 - 6 | Deep blue with golden pyrite inclusions. Not a single mineral. |
| Zircon | Nesosilicate | ZrSiO4 | 6.5 - 7.5 | High brilliance and "fire" (dispersion). Can be heat-treated for blue color. |
| Carnelian | Chalcedony (Quartz) | SiO2 | 6.5 - 7 | Reddish-orange to brownish-red. Translucent. |
| Aventurine | Chalcedony (Quartz) | SiO2 | 6.5 - 7 | Green (most common) with shimmering aventurescence. |
| Peridot | Olivine | (Mg,Fe)2SiO4 | 6.5 - 7 | Olive green color. Occurs in only one color. |
| Spinel | Spinel | MgAl2O4 | 7.5 - 8 | Wide color range. High durability. |
| Iolite | Cordierite | (Mg,Fe)2Al4Si5O18 | 7 - 7.5 | Violet-blue. Strong pleochroism. |
| Tanzanite | Zoisite | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) | 6 - 7 | Bluish-violet. Trichroic (shows three colors). |
| Blue Topaz | Topaz | Al2SiO4(F,OH)2 | 8 | Brilliant blue shades (London Blue, Swiss Blue). Widely available. |
Lapis Lazuli, being relatively soft (Mohs 5-6), requires gentle handling and should be protected from scratches. Zircon, with its good hardness, is more durable but can be brittle. Carnelian and Aventurine, as varieties of quartz, have moderate hardness (6.5-7) and are suitable for everyday wear with proper care. Peridot (Mohs 6.5-7) requires careful cleaning as it can be susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners. Spinel and Iolite offer good durability with hardness of 7.5-8 and 7-7.5, respectively. Tanzanite (Mohs 6-7) is relatively soft and should be handled with care. Blue Topaz is hard (Mohs 8) but can be prone to chipping if not cut properly.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Across cultures and throughout history, gemstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical powers. The alternative September birthstones are no exception, each carrying its own set of beliefs.
Lapis Lazuli: In ancient Egypt, it was a prized stone used in the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Ancient Persians and pre-Columbian Americans used it as a talisman against the evil eye. By medieval times, it was associated with the color of the heavens and was believed to protect against spirits of darkness. It was ground to make the precious pigment ultramarine, a favorite of Renaissance artists like Michelangelo. Catherine the Great used lapis lazuli extensively in her palace decor. It is believed to promote truth, wisdom, and intellectual ability.
Zircon: Blue zircon is associated with clarity, honor, and purity. It is said to promote spiritual growth and provide protection during travel.
Carnelian: This stone has been used since ancient times for protection and courage. It is believed to enhance motivation, creativity, and compassion. In some traditions, it is thought to stimulate the flow of energy and vitality.
Aventurine: Often called the "Stone of Opportunity," it is believed to bring luck, especially in games of chance. It is also associated with optimism, confidence, and perseverance. The green variety is particularly linked to prosperity and abundance.
Peridot: As the traditional September stone in ancient calendars, peridot was believed to drive away evil spirits and protect against nightmares. It is associated with healing, renewal, and growth. The ancient Egyptians called it the "gem of the sun," believing it had protective powers.
Spinel: Historically mistaken for more precious stones, spinel is now appreciated for its own merits. It is said to bring energy renewal, inspiration, and a sense of calm. It is associated with new beginnings and revitalizing one's life force.
Iolite: Known as the "Viking Compass Stone," iolite was used by Vikings to navigate because of its strong pleochroism. It is believed to enhance vision, both physically and spiritually, and to aid in self-discovery and understanding one's purpose.
Tanzanite: Discovered in the 1960s, tanzanite is associated with transformation, spiritual awakening, and the alignment of the heart and mind. Its unique color is said to inspire creativity and a higher perspective.
Blue Topaz: This stone symbolizes calm, communication, and emotional balance. It is believed to soothe the mind, reduce stress, and enhance clear expression of thoughts and feelings.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any gemstone. The care requirements for alternative September birthstones vary based on their hardness, cleavage, and chemical stability.
Lapis Lazuli: Due to its moderate hardness (5-6) and composite nature, lapis lazuli should be protected from scratches and harsh chemicals. Clean it with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and extreme temperatures.
Zircon: While hard, zircon can be brittle. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid sudden temperature changes, which can cause fractures.
Carnelian and Aventurine: As varieties of quartz, they are relatively durable. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. They can generally withstand ultrasonic cleaners, but steam cleaning is not recommended.
Peridot: Peridot has good hardness but can be susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water for cleaning. Avoid exposure to extreme heat.
Spinel: Spinel is very durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water, a soft brush, and even ultrasonic cleaners. It is resistant to most chemicals.
Iolite: Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, but steam cleaning is not recommended due to potential fractures.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite is relatively soft and can be prone to scratching. Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning. It is best to remove tanzanite jewelry during physical activities.
Blue Topaz: Topaz is hard but can be chipped. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, but avoid sudden temperature changes. Be cautious with steam cleaners.
It is generally advisable to avoid exposing any of these gemstones to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals. When in doubt, consult a professional jeweler for cleaning and maintenance advice.
Conclusion
While sapphire remains the iconic September birthstone, the alternative gems—lapis lazuli, zircon, carnelian, aventurine, peridot, spinel, iolite, tanzanite, and blue topaz—offer a captivating range of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. These gemstones represent a rich tapestry of cultural and geological heritage, providing individuals with a personalized connection to the month of September. Exploring these alternatives expands the tradition of birthstones, acknowledging the diverse and evolving nature of these cherished gems. Whether chosen for their unique color, affordability, historical significance, or metaphysical properties, each of these stones carries its own story and beauty, offering September babies and gemstone enthusiasts alike a world of choice beyond the classic blue sapphire.