Sapphire: The Enchanting September Birthstone
Birthstones have captivated humanity for centuries, each month associated with a unique gemstone that carries special significance and beauty. For those born in September, the sapphire stands as their celestial birthright—a gem that has adorned royalty, inspired legends, and continues to mesmerize with its deep, alluring hues. But while the classic blue sapphire may be the first to come to mind, the world of sapphires is far more diverse and exciting than many realize.
In this exploration of September's birthstone, we'll delve into the rich tapestry of sapphire lore, science, and beauty. From the traditional deep blues to the captivating world of parti sapphires, we'll uncover the many facets that make sapphires a true marvel of the gemstone world. Whether you're a September baby looking to connect with your birthstone or a jewellery enthusiast eager to expand your knowledge, join us on this journey through the enchanting realm of sapphires.
The History and Lore of Sapphires
Ancient Civilizations and Sapphires
The allure of sapphires stretches back through the annals of human history. Ancient Persians believed the earth rested on a giant sapphire, its reflection painting the sky blue. This celestial connection made sapphires highly prized among many early civilizations.
In ancient Greece and Rome, kings and queens wore sapphires as a powerful defense against harm and envy. The stone was so revered that in some cultures, it was believed that sapphires could protect their owners from poisoning—a particularly useful trait for royalty in tumultuous times.
The ancient Buddhists also held sapphires in high regard, believing that the gem could bring spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. This association with wisdom and divine favor made sapphires popular among religious leaders and scholars across various cultures.
Sapphires in Royalty and Religion
The tradition of sapphires in royal regalia continued well into the Middle Ages and beyond. Perhaps one of the most famous examples is the Stuart Sapphire, which adorned the Imperial State Crown of Britain. This 104-carat blue gem has witnessed centuries of coronations, a testament to the enduring royal favor of sapphires.
In the realm of religion, sapphires have played significant roles in various faiths. In Christianity, sapphires were associated with heaven, and some traditions held that the Ten Commandments were engraved on tablets of sapphire. The deep blue of sapphires also linked them to the Virgin Mary, and they often appeared in ecclesiastical rings worn by bishops and cardinals.
Myths and Legends Surrounding Sapphires
The mystique of sapphires has given rise to numerous myths and legends across cultures. In ancient lore, sapphires were thought to have powers of prophecy, opening the mind's eye to visions and intuition. Some believed that placing a sapphire under the tongue could enhance one's ability to see the future or communicate with celestial beings.
Another fascinating legend revolves around the concept of faithfulness. It was believed that a sapphire's colour would fade if worn by an unfaithful or impure person, making it a popular gift between lovers as a test of fidelity.
The healing properties attributed to sapphires were also the stuff of legend. They were thought to cure boils, plague, and even blindness. In medieval times, sapphires were ground into a powder and ingested as a cure for various ailments—a practice we certainly don't recommend today!
One particularly intriguing myth involves the origin of parti sapphires. According to an old miners' tale, parti sapphires were formed when different coloured sapphires melted together under intense heat and pressure deep within the earth. While we now know the scientific explanation for these multi-coloured gems, this legend speaks to the wonder they've inspired for generations.
As we delve deeper into the world of sapphires, including the fascinating parti varieties, we'll see how these ancient beliefs and modern understanding intertwine to create the rich tapestry of sapphire lore. The September birthstone is not just a beautiful gem, but a storyteller, carrying with it millennia of human history, beliefs, and aspirations.
Sapphire Composition and Formation
Chemical Composition
To truly appreciate the wonder of sapphires, including the mesmerizing parti sapphires, it's essential to understand their composition. Sapphires belong to the mineral family called corundum, which is composed of aluminium oxide (Al2O3). In its purest form, corundum is colourless. However, it's the presence of trace elements that gives sapphires their stunning array of colours.
The classic blue sapphire gets its colour from the presence of iron and titanium in the crystal structure. Other colours are created by different trace elements: chromium creates pink and red sapphires (with red sapphires being classified as rubies), iron alone can create yellow and green sapphires, and combinations of elements can create the fascinating parti sapphires.
How Sapphires are Formed in Nature
Sapphires are formed deep within the Earth under conditions of extreme heat and pressure. They typically crystallize in metamorphic rocks, such as gneiss or schist, but can also form in igneous rocks under the right conditions. The formation process is slow, often taking millions of years.
The creation of parti sapphires is particularly intriguing. These unique gems form when there are fluctuations in the growth environment during the crystal's formation. As the crystal grows, changes in temperature, pressure, or the concentration of trace elements can cause different colours to develop in distinct zones of the same crystal. This results in the striking multi-coloured appearance that makes parti sapphires so special.
Where Sapphires are Mined
Sapphires are found in various locations around the world, each known for producing stones with particular characteristics:
1. Kashmir: Though no longer an active source, Kashmir sapphires are renowned for their cornflower blue colour and velvety appearance.
2. Myanmar (Burma): Produces high-quality blue sapphires as well as unique "star" sapphires.
3. Sri Lanka: Known as "Ceylon sapphires," these gems often have a lighter, brighter blue and include a wide range of colours, including parti sapphires.
4. Australia: A significant source of blue sapphires, green sapphires, yellow sapphires and parti sapphires, particularly from the Queensland and New South Wales regions.
5. Montana, USA: Produces a range of sapphires, including unique greenish-blue stones and, occasionally, parti sapphires.
6. Thailand: A major source of blue sapphires, often darker in colour.
7. Madagascar: Has emerged as a significant producer of fine sapphires in various colours, including exceptional parti sapphires.
Each of these locations contributes to the rich diversity of sapphires available in the market, making every stone a unique treasure with its own geographic signature.
The Rainbow of Sapphires: Colours and Varieties
Traditional Blue Sapphires
When most people think of sapphires, they picture a deep, royal blue gemstone. This classic blue sapphire has been prized for centuries and continues to be one of the most sought-after varieties. The most valuable blue sapphires typically have a medium to medium-dark blue colour with strong saturation. The legendary Kashmir sapphires, with their cornflower blue colour and velvety appearance, set the standard for blue sapphire quality.
However, blue sapphires can range from light sky blue to deep midnight blue. The exact shade can affect both the value and the appeal of the stone. Some prefer the brighter, more electric blues of Ceylon sapphires, while others are drawn to the deep, inky blues of Australian or Thai sapphires.
Fancy Coloured Sapphires
While blue may be the most famous, sapphires actually come in every colour of the rainbow, except red (red corundum is classified as ruby). These non-blue sapphires are often referred to as "fancy sapphires" and have gained popularity in recent years for their unique beauty and often more accessible price points.
Some popular fancy sapphire colours include:
- Yellow: Ranging from pale lemon to deep golden hues.
- Pink: From soft pastel to vivid magenta shades.
- Purple: Varying from light lavender to deep violet.
- Green: Spanning from mint to deep forest green.
- Orange: Also known as "padparadscha" when in a specific pink-orange hue.
- White: Colourless sapphires with a diamond-like appearance.
- Black: Opaque or very dark sapphires with a sleek, modern look.
Each colour has its own unique charm and can suit different styles and preferences. The variety of colours available makes sapphires incredibly versatile for jewellery design, allowing for creative and personalized pieces.
Introduction to Parti Sapphires
Among the myriad sapphire varieties, parti sapphires stand out as true wonders of the gemstone world. The term "parti" comes from the French word "parti," meaning "part" or "portion," referring to the multiple colours present in a single stone.
Parti sapphires display two or more distinct colours within the same gem. These colours are not blended but appear in separate zones, creating a striking multi-coloured effect. Common colour combinations include blue and yellow, green and yellow, or blue and green, but the possibilities are nearly endless.
The formation of parti sapphires is a testament to the dynamic processes occurring deep within the Earth. As the sapphire crystal grows, changes in the surrounding environment—such as temperature fluctuations or variations in the concentration of trace elements—cause different colours to develop in distinct zones of the crystal. The result is a gemstone that tells the story of its formation through its captivating play of colours.
Parti sapphires have gained significant popularity in recent years, particularly among those seeking unique and unconventional gemstones. Their multi-coloured nature makes them versatile in jewellery design, allowing for creative settings that complement and enhance their distinctive appearance.
In the next section, we'll take a closer look at parti sapphires, exploring their unique characteristics, formation, and the special appeal that has gemstone enthusiasts and jewellery lovers alike falling in love with these remarkable stones.
Spotlight on Parti Sapphires
What are Parti Sapphires?
Parti sapphires, sometimes called "polychrome" or "bi-colour" sapphires, are a fascinating subset of sapphires that display two or more distinct colours within a single stone. Unlike colour-change sapphires that shift hues under different lighting conditions, parti sapphires maintain their multiple colours consistently, creating a unique and eye-catching appearance.
The colour combinations in parti sapphires can vary widely. Some common pairings include:
- Blue and yellow
- Green and yellow
- Blue and green
- Purple and pink
However, the possibilities are virtually limitless, with some rare specimens showcasing three or more colours in striking arrangements.
How Parti Sapphires are Formed
The formation of parti sapphires is a testament to the dynamic nature of gemstone growth. These unique stones form when there are changes in the mineral content or environmental conditions during the crystal's growth process.
As the sapphire crystal forms deep within the earth, fluctuations in temperature, pressure, or the concentration of trace elements can cause different colours to develop in distinct zones of the crystal. For example, a crystal might begin growing in conditions that produce a yellow colour (high in Iron), but if the environment changes to favour the formation of blue sapphire, the crystal will continue growing with a blue section, (high in Titanium).
This process can occur multiple times during the crystal's formation, resulting in complex and beautiful colour zoning. The distinct colour boundaries in parti sapphires are evidence of these abrupt changes in growing conditions.
Unique Characteristics and Appeal of Parti Sapphires
Parti sapphires possess several characteristics that make them highly appealing to both jewellers and gemstone enthusiasts:
1. Uniqueness: No two parti sapphires are exactly alike. The combination of colours, their distribution, and intensity make each stone one-of-a-kind.
2. Versatility in Design: The multiple colours in parti sapphires allow for creative jewellery designs that can complement a variety of styles and colour palettes.
3. Value: Parti sapphires often offer a way to own a unique, multi-coloured gemstone at a more accessible price point compared to high-grade single-color sapphires.
4. Conversation Piece: The unusual appearance of parti sapphires naturally draws attention and sparks conversation, making them excellent centrepieces for statement jewellery.
5. Symbolic Meaning: Some people find deeper meaning in the multiple colours, seeing them as a representation of life's complexities or the multifaceted nature of personality.
The rising popularity of parti sapphires in recent years is a testament to their unique beauty and the growing appreciation for unconventional gemstones in the jewellery world.
Sapphire Quality Factors
The 4Cs as Applied to Sapphires
When evaluating sapphires, including parti sapphires, gemmologists use a system similar to the 4Cs used for diamonds: Colour, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight. However, these factors are applied somewhat differently for sapphires:
1. Colour: For sapphires, colour is the most important factor. It's evaluated based on hue (the basic colour), saturation (intensity of colour), and tone (lightness or darkness). For blue sapphires, a medium to medium-dark blue with strong saturation is typically most valuable. For parti sapphires, the distinctness of the colour zones and the appeal of the colour combination are key.
2. Clarity: Unlike diamonds, sapphires are expected to have some inclusions. Eye-clean sapphires (those with no visible inclusions to the naked eye) are rare and valuable. However, some inclusions can be desirable, such as those that create asterism (the star effect) in star sapphires.
3. Cut: The cut of a sapphire should maximize its colour and brilliance. For parti sapphires, the cut should ideally showcase the different colour zones to their best advantage.
4. Carat Weight: While larger sapphires are generally more valuable, factors like colour and clarity can outweigh size in determining a sapphire's value.
Special Considerations for Parti Sapphires
When evaluating parti sapphires, there are additional factors to consider:
1. Colour Zoning: The distinctness of the colour zones and the appeal of the colour combination are crucial. Well-defined, complementary colours are generally more desirable.
2. Colour Distribution: Ideally, the colours should be evenly distributed, with each colour occupying a significant portion of the stone.
3. Rarity of Colour Combination: Some colour combinations are rarer and may be more valuable.
4. Overall Visual Appeal: The subjective beauty of the stone, considering how the colours interact and the overall effect, plays a significant role in a parti sapphire's value.
Famous Sapphires in History
Notable Sapphire Jewellery Pieces
Throughout history, sapphires have adorned some of the world's most famous jewellery pieces:
1. The Stuart Sapphire: This 104-carat blue sapphire is one of the oldest gems in the British Crown Jewels, currently set on the back of the Imperial State Crown.
2. The Logan Sapphire: One of the world's largest faceted blue sapphires, weighing 422.99 carats, is on display at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.
3. The Star of India: This 563.35-carat star sapphire is one of the largest in the world and is housed at the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
4. The Rockefeller Sapphire: A 62.02-carat Kashmir sapphire that once belonged to the Rockefeller family, known for its exceptional cornflower blue colour.
Celebrity Sapphire Engagement Rings
Sapphires have been a popular choice for engagement rings, especially among celebrities and royalty:
1. Princess Diana (and later, Kate Middleton): Perhaps the most famous sapphire engagement ring, featuring a 12-carat oval blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds.
2. Elizabeth Hurley: Received a 9-carat blue sapphire ring from Shane Warne.
3. Penélope Cruz: Wears a vintage 3-carat oval sapphire ring.
4. Victoria Beckham: Has been seen wearing a large oval-cut sapphire ring.
These famous sapphires and celebrity choices have helped maintain the gemstone's popularity and mystique over the years.
Sapphire Care and Maintenance
Hardness and Durability
Sapphires are known for their excellent durability, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness (with diamond being 10). This makes them suitable for everyday wear, even in rings which are exposed to more wear and tear than other types of jewelry.
However, while sapphires are tough, they're not indestructible. They can be chipped or scratched if subjected to hard blows or if they come into contact with harder materials.
Cleaning and Storage Tips
To keep your sapphire jewellery looking its best:
1. Clean regularly with mild soap and warm water, using a soft brush to remove any build-up.
2. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, especially for treated or fracture-filled sapphires.
3. Store sapphire jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent scratching.
4. Remove sapphire jewelry before engaging in heavy physical work or sports.
5. Have your sapphire jewellery professionally cleaned and inspected periodically, especially if it's in a setting with other stones.
Sapphires in Modern Jewellery
Current Trends in Sapphire Jewellery
Sapphires continue to be a popular choice in modern jewellery design:
1. Vintage-inspired designs featuring sapphires are on trend, often incorporating Art Deco or Victorian elements.
2. Sapphires are increasingly being used as alternatives to diamonds in engagement rings, offering color and personality.
3. Fancy colored sapphires, including parti sapphires, are gaining popularity for their unique appearance and often more accessible price points.
4. Sapphires are being used in minimalist jewellery designs, where their colour adds a pop to otherwise simple pieces.
Sapphires in Engagement Rings
The use of sapphires in engagement rings has seen a resurgence, partly due to high-profile rings like that of Kate Middleton. Sapphires offer several advantages as engagement ring stones:
1. Durability suitable for everyday wear
2. A range of colors to suit individual tastes
3. Often more affordable than comparable quality diamonds
4. A unique alternative to traditional diamond rings
Incorporating Parti Sapphires in Contemporary Designs
Parti sapphires are finding their place in contemporary jewellery design:
1. As centrepieces in unique engagement rings for couples wanting something truly one-of-a-kind
2. In abstract or artistic designs that play off the stone's multiple colors
3. As accent stones in larger pieces, adding pops of varied colour
4. In ombré-style designs, where the multiple colours of the parti sapphire are echoed in surrounding stones
The Metaphysical Properties of Sapphires
Traditional Beliefs about Sapphire's Powers
Throughout history, sapphires have been attributed with various metaphysical properties:
1. Wisdom and Truth: Sapphires were believed to bring mental clarity and help in the pursuit of knowledge.
2. Protection: They were thought to protect the wearer from harm and negative energies.
3. Fidelity: Sapphires were associated with faithfulness and were often given as tokens of love.
4. Spiritual Enlightenment: In some traditions, sapphires were linked to spiritual growth and inner peace.
In modern crystal healing practices, sapphires are associated with:
1. The Throat Chakra: Blue sapphires are thought to enhance communication and self-expression.
2. Emotional Balance: They're believed to calm the mind and bring emotional stability.
3. Intuition: Some believe sapphires can enhance intuition and psychic abilities.
4. Meditation: Sapphires are sometimes used as focus objects in meditation practices.
While these beliefs are not scientifically proven, many people find comfort and meaning in the metaphysical associations of gemstones.
How to Choose the Perfect Sapphire
Tips for Selecting a Sapphire
When choosing a sapphire:
1. Determine your colour preference: Decide whether you want a traditional blue sapphire or if you're interested in fancy colours or parti sapphires.
2. Consider the 4Cs: Pay attention to color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, prioritizing based on your personal preferences.
3. Check for treatments: Many sapphires are heat-treated to enhance color. This is accepted in the industry but should be disclosed.
4. Look at the stone in different lights: Natural and artificial lighting can affect how the color appears.
5. Consider the setting: Think about how the sapphire will look in its intended jewelry piece.
6. Buy from reputable sources: Ensure you're purchasing from a trusted jeweller or dealer.
Special Considerations for Parti Sapphires
When selecting a parti sapphire:
1. Evaluate the color combination: Choose a combination that appeals to you and complements your style.
2. Check the color distribution: Look for stones where the colors are well-balanced and distinct.
3. Consider the cut: Ensure the cut showcases both colors effectively.
4. Think about versatility: Consider how the colors will work with different outfits or other jewelry pieces.
5. Appreciate uniqueness: Remember that each parti sapphire is one-of-a-kind, so choose one that speaks to you personally.
Conclusion
Sapphires, in all their varied hues, continue to captivate and inspire. As the September birthstone, they offer those born in this month a gem of remarkable beauty, durability, and significance. From the classic allure of deep blue sapphires to the unique charm of parti sapphires, these gems provide endless possibilities for personal adornment and expression.
Whether you're drawn to sapphires for their historical significance, their reputed metaphysical properties, or simply their stunning beauty, there's no denying the enduring appeal of these precious stones. As we've explored, sapphires are not just a single gem, but a diverse family of stones, each with its own character and charm.
For those considering sapphire jewelry, whether as a birthstone piece, an engagement ring, or simply a beautiful addition to your collection, remember that each sapphire is unique. Take the time to find the one that resonates with you, whether it's a classic blue stone or a mesmerizing parti sapphire.
In the end, the true value of a sapphire lies not just in its physical characteristics, but in the joy and meaning it brings to its wearer. As you gaze into the depths of a sapphire, you're not just looking at a gemstone – you're connecting with a piece of the earth's history, a symbol of human artistry, and perhaps, a little bit of magic.
