For centuries, the month of September has been intrinsically linked to the profound, celestial blue of the sapphire. As the modern birthstone for this autumn month, sapphire represents a confluence of geological marvel, historical reverence, and enduring symbolism. Its deep, captivating hue has adorned royalty, protected warriors, and inspired spiritual seekers. Yet, September's gemstone identity is more complex than a single stone. Alongside the renowned sapphire, other gemstones like lapis lazuli, peridot, agate, zircon, and moonstone have historically been associated with this month, each contributing to a rich tapestry of color and meaning. This article delves into the world of September's birthstones, exploring the gemological properties, historical lore, and cultural significance of these remarkable gems, with a primary focus on the iconic blue sapphire and its notable alternative, lapis lazuli.
The Modern Standard: Sapphire
Sapphire is unequivocally recognized as the primary birthstone for September. The term "sapphire" traditionally refers to the blue variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide, Al₂O₃), though corundum occurs in a spectrum of colors, with the red variety being ruby. The name "sapphire" itself is derived from the Latin sapphirus and the Greek sappheiros, both meaning "blue" or "precious stones." This etymology underscores the stone's most defining characteristic: its deep, royal blue color.
History and Lore
The history of sapphire is as deep as its color. In ancient Greece and Rome, the elite believed that blue sapphires possessed the power to protect their owners from harm and envy. This belief in its protective qualities continued through the Middle Ages, when clerics wore sapphires to symbolize Heaven. The stone was also thought to have healing powers; medieval Europeans believed it could cure plague boils and diseases of the eye, and it was considered an antidote to poison. Ancient Persians held a cosmological belief that the earth rested on a giant sapphire, and the reflection of this stone is what made the sky blue.
Beyond its protective and healing lore, sapphire has long been a symbol of sincerity, truth, faithfulness, and nobility. Its association with royalty is ancient and well-documented, making it a favored gem for crowns, scepters, and royal jewels. This symbolism extends into modern times, where sapphire is also given to celebrate the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries, with the Star Sapphire being the traditional gift for the 65th anniversary. The transition from traditional birthstones to the modern standard highlights sapphire's ascent. Earlier alternatives, such as chrysolite, have largely been superseded by sapphire due to its striking appearance, durability, and the profound symbolism it carries—mental clarity, wisdom, and integrity.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphire, as a variety of corundum, forms under specific geological conditions. It is found in alluvial deposits and in certain metamorphic and igneous rocks. The most famous sources for high-quality blue sapphires include Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, and Kashmir. The Rockefeller Sapphire, a renowned 62.02-carat rectangular step-cut stone, was unearthed in Myanmar. Other significant sources include Thailand, Cambodia, and the Umba Valley in Tanzania, which produces sapphires in a range of colors, including blues, greens, and yellows.
While sapphires are not considered rare overall—thanks to vast global reserves and the production of synthetic gems—the highest-quality stones are scarce. The most valuable and sought-after sapphires possess a deep, vivid blue hue with excellent clarity and significant carat weight. Those with pure, vibrant blue color are rarer than stones with secondary tones or lighter shades.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire is prized for its exceptional durability, making it an ideal gemstone for jewelry that is worn daily. Its key properties are:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum (Aluminum Oxide, Al₂O₃) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9 (Second only to diamond) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 - 1.770 |
| Specific Gravity | 4.00 ± 0.05 |
| Chemical Composition | Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace elements (e.g., iron, titanium) causing the blue color. |
| Durability | Excellent. Very resistant to scratching and abrasion. |
The deep blue color of sapphire is caused by trace amounts of iron and titanium within the crystal lattice. While blue is the most traditional and iconic color, sapphires occur in a rainbow of other colors except red. When sapphires exhibit colors other than blue, they are called "fancy sapphires." Common cuts for sapphire include round, oval, cushion, and emerald, each chosen to enhance the stone's natural color and brilliance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sapphire's metaphysical attributes are deeply tied to its color and historical associations. It is said to embody mental clarity, royalty, protection, spirituality, and love. The stone is believed to guard against harm and negativity while fostering spiritual insight and a connection to the divine. Its enduring appeal as a symbol of wisdom and integrity makes it a cherished gem for those seeking truth and constancy.
Care and Cleaning
Thanks to its high hardness and lack of cleavage, sapphire is relatively easy to care for. It can be cleaned using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe for untreated, heat-treated, and diffusion-treated sapphires, but caution is advised for stones with significant fractures or inclusions. As with all fine jewelry, it is best to avoid exposing sapphire to harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes.
The Ancient Alternative: Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli is the primary alternative birthstone for September, sharing the deep royal blue color that defines this month's gemstones. Unlike sapphire, which is a single mineral, lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of multiple minerals, primarily lazurite, calcite, and pyrite.
History and Lore
Lapis Lazuli has a history as venerable as sapphire. It was revered in ancient Egypt, where it was used by royalty. The sarcophagus of Pharaoh Tutankhamun was adorned with lapis lazuli, highlighting its status as a stone of power and divinity. In ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, it was also used for amulets and jewelry.
In medieval Europe, lapis lazuli was ground into a fine powder to create ultramarine, a vibrant blue pigment that was exceptionally prized for its use in religious paintings and manuscripts. The pigment was so valuable that it was often reserved for depicting the robes of the Virgin Mary. The stone was also believed to promote mental clarity and serenity, making it a favorite among scholars and spiritual seekers.
Geological Formation and Sources
Lapis lazuli forms in the contact zones between igneous rocks and limestone or marble. Its most important historical source is the Sar-e-Sang mines in Afghanistan, which have been in operation for over 6,000 years. Other sources include Chile, Russia, and the United States. The stone's characteristic deep blue color comes from the lazurite mineral, while the golden flecks are typically pyrite, and the white veining is calcite.
Gemological Properties
As a rock, lapis lazuli's properties are an average of its constituent minerals. It is softer than sapphire and requires more care.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Composition | A rock primarily of Lazurite, Calcite, and Pyrite. |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 5 - 5.5 |
| Crystal System | Mixed (Lazurite is cubic). |
| Refractive Index | ~1.50 (varies) |
| Specific Gravity | ~2.7 - 2.9 |
| Durability | Fair to good. Softer than sapphire, can be scratched. Porous. |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Lapis Lazuli is associated with truth, wisdom, and inner peace. It is believed to enhance intellectual ability and stimulate the desire for knowledge. Its deep blue color is connected to the night sky and the universe, making it a stone for spiritual insight.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its lower hardness and porous nature, lapis lazuli requires gentle care. It should be cleaned only with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to water, as it can damage the stone or alter its color.
Other Historical September Birthstones
The history of birthstones is not static; it has evolved over centuries. The modern standard is largely influenced by a list created in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America). However, older traditions associated other stones with September.
- Peridot: This gemstone, a variety of olivine, has a complex and sometimes controversial history as a September birthstone. It is known for its distinctive olive-green color and is formed deep within the Earth's mantle and brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Historically, peridot was mined on the Egyptian island of Zabargad. While not the modern standard, its historical association with September is noted in gemological literature.
- Agate: A banded variety of chalcedony (a microcrystalline form of quartz), agate has been used for thousands of years for jewelry, amulets, and seals. Its wide range of colors and patterns made it a popular choice in various historical periods.
- Zircon: This gemstone is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with crystals found in Australia dating back over 4.4 billion years. It is available in a variety of colors, including blue, and was historically mistaken for diamond due to its high refractive index and brilliance.
- Moonstone: A member of the feldspar group, moonstone is known for its adularescence—a shimmering, moonlight-like glow that moves across the stone's surface. It has long been associated with the moon and has been used in jewelry for centuries.
These stones, while not the modern primary choice, enrich the historical narrative of September's gemstones, reflecting the diverse geological and cultural landscape of gemology.
Conclusion
The birthstones of September, led by the majestic blue sapphire, represent a legacy of color, science, and human belief. Sapphire, with its exceptional hardness, deep royal blue hue, and associations with wisdom and royalty, stands as the definitive modern birthstone for the month. Its alternative, lapis lazuli, offers a different but equally compelling story, rooted in ancient artistry and spiritual depth. The historical presence of other stones like peridot, agate, zircon, and moonstone further illustrates the rich and evolving tradition of assigning meaning to gemstones. Together, these stones provide a diverse palette for those born in September, each offering a unique connection to the earth's treasures and the enduring human fascination with the beauty and symbolism of gemstones.