A sapphire is the gemstone associated with the month of September. The sapphire stone, which represents a September birthday, is symbolic of this month. Sapphires are said to provide knowledge, riches, healing, and good fortune to those who wear them. Sapphires are considered to be a modest and intelligent birthstone, and those born with sapphires as their birthstone are passionately devoted to their families and friends.
Sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). Its chemical composition consists of aluminum and oxygen, with trace amounts of elements such as iron, titanium, chromium, and vanadium responsible for its various colors. While most commonly associated with a rich blue hue, sapphire occurs in a spectrum of colors known as "fancy sapphires," including pink, yellow, and green, with the exception of red, which is classified as ruby. The gemstone possesses a Mohs hardness of 9, making it second only to diamond in durability, and it lacks cleavage, contributing to its suitability for jewelry. Its refractive index ranges from 1.762 to 1.770, and it exhibits strong dichroism, showing different color intensities when viewed from different crystal directions.
History and Lore
Sapphire has been revered throughout history for its beauty and perceived spiritual powers. In ancient Persia, it was believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire, the reflection of which colored the sky. During the Middle Ages, clergy wore sapphires to symbolize heaven and heaven's truth, and laypeople utilized the stones to attract divine favor and protect against envy and harm.
The belief in the sapphire's protective qualities persisted into the Renaissance. The gemstone was widely regarded as an antidote to poison and a guard against the plague, while also being credited with the ability to cure eye ailments and sharpen mental acuity. Historically, sapphire has been a stone of royalty and romance. It was a favorite gem of Queen Victoria and was famously chosen by Prince Charles for the engagement ring given to Lady Diana Spencer in 1981, a ring now worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Sapphire is traditionally the birthstone for September. It is also the gemstone for the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries. In modern metaphysical beliefs, the sapphire is revered as a stone of wisdom and royalty. It is believed to bring peace of mind, focus, and clarity of thought, making it a favorite among those seeking to enhance their intuitive abilities or spiritual awareness.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sapphires are formed under extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth's crust, specifically within metamorphic rocks such as schist and gneiss, or in igneous rocks like basalt. The presence of titanium and iron within the corundum structure creates the signature blue color. Mining operations for sapphire are conducted in various locations around the globe, each region producing stones with distinct characteristics.
- Kashmir (India): The most prized sapphires come from the Kashmir region of India. Mined intermittently since the late 19th century, these stones are known for their velvety, soft blue appearance due to the presence of fine silk (rutile inclusions). Production is rare today, making Kashmir sapphires exceptionally valuable.
- Myanmar (Burma): Burmese sapphires are known for their intense, rich blue color. The Mogok region is the primary source, and these stones are often compared to the finest Kashmir sapphires.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka is a significant source of sapphires, producing stones in a wide range of colors and qualities. The alluvial deposits in the region yield gems that are often lighter in saturation but highly prized for their clarity.
- Australia: Australia produces sapphires that are typically darker in tone, often appearing almost black in artificial light. These stones are frequently heat-treated to improve their color.
- Thailand and Cambodia: These Southeast Asian nations are major trading centers for sapphires, though many of the stones traded there are originally mined in Sri Lanka or Myanmar.
- United States: Sapphire deposits have been found in Montana. The Yogo Gulch mine produces small, cornflower-blue stones that are often uniform in color.
Gemological Properties
Sapphire is valued based on the "Four Cs": Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight, with color being the most significant factor in determining its value.
Color
The most valuable sapphires exhibit a medium to medium-dark vivid blue to violetish blue color. The most sought-after hue is a pure, rich blue without any modifying tones of green or gray. In the trade, this specific shade is often referred to as "cornflower blue." Saturation is crucial; the color must be strong and vivid, yet not so dark that it reduces brightness. Sapphires that are too light in saturation are less valuable, while those that are too dark may appear dull in dim lighting.
Clarity
Sapphires typically contain inclusions, which are internal characteristics that differentiate them from synthetic (lab-grown) stones. The presence of fine, needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile, known as "silk," can soften the color of a sapphire and reduce its brilliance. However, if the silk is present in the right concentration, it can create a desirable star effect (asterism) in cabochon-cut stones. While visible inclusions can lower the value, some inclusions are accepted as proof of natural origin. Sapphires with flawless clarity are extremely rare and command premium prices.
Cut
Sapphire is cut in a variety of shapes to maximize color and minimize the visibility of inclusions. The oval cut is the most traditional and popular shape for blue sapphires, as it can help concentrate the color. Other common cuts include cushion, round, pear, and emerald cuts. The precision of the cut affects the stone's brilliance; a well-cut sapphire will reflect light evenly across its surface.
Carat Weight
Sapphires are available in a wide range of sizes. While smaller sapphires are common, large, high-quality sapphires are exceptionally rare and increase in price per carat significantly as the size increases. The value of a sapphire is not linearly related to its weight; a 5-carat sapphire of top quality will be worth exponentially more than five 1-carat stones of the same quality.
Hardness and Durability
With a Mohs hardness of 9, sapphire is an extremely durable gemstone suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets that are subject to daily wear. It lacks cleavage, meaning it is not prone to splitting along internal planes, though it can still be chipped if struck with significant force against a sharp edge. It is resistant to attack by most acids and is stable when exposed to light and heat.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout the ages, sapphire has been imbued with deep symbolic meaning. It is universally recognized as a symbol of wisdom, truth, and loyalty.
Wisdom and Mental Clarity
Sapphire is believed to facilitate mental focus and clarity of thought. It is often associated with the activation of the mind, helping to treat mental disorders and relieve depression. In spiritual practices, it is said to unlock the mind to higher knowledge and spiritual guidance. It is considered a grounding stone that helps to align the physical, mental, and spiritual planes, restoring balance within the body.
Protection and Healing
Historically, sapphire was viewed as a protective talisman. It was believed to guard the wearer against harm, envy, and negative energy. In the context of healing, sapphire is associated with the throat chakra and is thought to aid in communication and self-expression. It is also credited with the ability to soothe the physical body, particularly in the treatment of issues related to the eyes and thyroid.
Devotion and Loyalty
Sapphire is traditionally associated with romantic fidelity. Its deep blue color is often linked to the depth of the ocean and the sky, symbolizing unwavering commitment. As a birthstone for September, it is said to bring peace and contentment to those born in that month, fostering a sense of devotion to family and friends. It is a stone that encourages self-discipline and helps one to channel their energy toward productive and positive outcomes.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its high hardness and lack of cleavage, sapphire is a relatively low-maintenance gemstone. It is durable enough to withstand daily wear without scratching, but care should be taken to protect it from hard blows that could cause chipping.
Cleaning Methods
- Warm Soapy Water: The safest method for cleaning sapphire is to use warm water with a mild detergent and a soft brush, such as a toothbrush. Gently scrub the stone, paying attention to the area underneath the setting where dirt can accumulate. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Ultrasonic Cleaners: Sapphires are generally safe to clean in an ultrasonic cleaner, provided the stone does not have significant fractures or inclusions that could be aggravated by the vibrations.
- Steam Cleaners: Steam cleaning is also safe for sapphire, but it should not be used if the stone has been fracture-filled or if wax is present on the surface.
Precautions
- Heat Sensitivity: While sapphire is stable under most conditions, extreme heat can cause existing inclusions to expand and crack the stone. Sudden temperature changes should be avoided.
- Chemical Exposure: Exposure to harsh chemicals, such as chlorine in swimming pools or strong household cleaners, can dull the stone's polish over time. It is advisable to remove sapphire jewelry before engaging in activities involving chemicals.
- Storage: When storing sapphire jewelry, keep it separate from other gems and jewelry pieces to prevent scratching. A soft cloth pouch or a compartmentalized jewelry box is ideal.
Conclusion
Sapphire remains one of the most coveted gemstones in the world, bridging the gap between ancient lore and modern luxury. Its exceptional hardness and brilliance make it a practical choice for jewelry, while its deep blue hue and rich history lend it an air of mystery and prestige. Whether valued for its geological rarity, its metaphysical properties, or its status as the birthstone for September, the sapphire continues to be a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and enduring beauty.