Welcome back to my channel, gem enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the world of birthstones, specifically focusing on the beautiful and diverse birthstones for September.
Birthstones have captivated people for centuries, not only for their beauty but also for the unique meanings and attributes each stone holds. September, in particular, offers a stunning array of birthstones: the classic Sapphire, the historically rich Lapis Lazuli, and the brilliantly sparkling Blue Zircon. Each of these gemstones brings its own charm, making them perfect for anyone born in this month or anyone who simply appreciates their beauty and significance. This article delves into the history, properties, and symbolism of these September birthstones.
Sapphire: The Classic September Birthstone
History and meaning
Sapphires, known for their deep, mesmerizing blue, have been treasured for thousands of years. The term "sapphire" is derived from the Latin "sapphirus," meaning blue. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, believed that sapphires protected their owners from harm and envy. During the Middle Ages, clergy would wear sapphires to symbolize Heaven, while royalty adorned themselves with these gems to attract divine favor and wisdom.
Physical Properties
Sapphires belong to the corundum family of minerals and are second only to diamonds in terms of hardness, scoring a 9 on the Mohs scale. While they are most famous for their blue varieties, sapphires can actually come in almost every color of the rainbow, known as "fancy sapphires." The only color they don't come in is red, as red corundum is classified as ruby.
Symbolism and Uses
Sapphires are symbols of wisdom, virtue, and good fortune. They are believed to bring spiritual enlightenment, inner peace, and clarity of thought. This gemstone's durability makes it an excellent choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry that can withstand daily wear. The deep blue sapphire is particularly favored in classic jewelry designs, signifying both elegance and timeless beauty./1/
Lapis Lazuli: The Ancient Alternative
History and Meaning
Lapis Lazuli is a deep blue metamorphic rock prized since antiquity for its vibrant color and historical significance. The ancient Egyptians valued Lapis Lazuli highly, using it to create amulets, jewelry, and even powdering it for cosmetics like eye shadow. The stone was often carved into scarabs and other symbolic artifacts. In medieval Europe, Lapis Lazuli was ground into ultramarine pigment for use in painting, most famously in the robes of the Virgin Mary in Renaissance art.
Physical Properties
Lapis Lazuli is composed primarily of lazurite, with additional minerals such as calcite and pyrite, which give it unique flecks of white and gold. This combination creates a starry sky effect within the stone. While Lapis Lazuli is softer than sapphire, with a Mohs hardness of about 5 to 6, it remains a popular choice for carvings, cabochons, and beads.
Symbolism and Uses
Lapis Lazuli is associated with truth, wisdom, and friendship. It is believed to enhance intellectual ability and stimulate the desire for knowledge. In metaphysical practices, Lapis Lazuli is thought to activate the higher mind and enhance creative expression. It makes a meaningful gift for those seeking a stone with deep historical and spiritual connections.
Blue Zircon: The Brilliant Choice
History and Meaning
Blue Zircon is a natural gemstone that has often been overshadowed by its synthetic namesake, cubic zirconia. However, Blue Zircon is a gemstone in its own right, with a rich history and unique properties. It has been used in jewelry for centuries and was particularly popular during the Victorian era, where it was prized for its brilliance and variety of colors.
Physical Properties
Blue Zircon is renowned for its high refractive index, which gives it a diamond-like brilliance. It scores 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively hard and durable. The most desirable Blue Zircons have a vibrant sky-blue color, although the stone can also come in other hues such as green, red, yellow, and brown.
Symbolism and Uses
Blue Zircon is believed to bring prosperity, honor, and wisdom to its wearer. It is also thought to aid in meditation and promote spiritual growth. This gemstone's exceptional brilliance and fire make it a standout choice for those seeking a unique and dazzling piece of jewelry. Whether set in rings, necklaces, or earrings, Blue Zircon offers a striking alternative to more traditional gemstones.
Choosing the Right September Birthstone
Selecting the perfect September birthstone involves considering personal style, symbolism, and the intended use of the gemstone. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
- Personal Style:
- Sapphire:Ideal for those who appreciate timeless elegance and classic designs. The deep blue sapphire is a versatile gemstone that complements both formal and casual attire. And be ready to pay a pretty penny for this gemstone. I have a separate video about sapphires and prices in case you are interesting to determine your budget. Don’t forget to watch it to know all details.
- Lapis Lazuli: Perfect for individuals with a taste for historical and bohemian styles. The rich blue color and unique gold flecks make it a distinctive choice for statement pieces. Good news, the price is not high. Everyone can afford this stone.
- Blue Zircon: Suited for those who prefer a unique, eye-catching sparkle. Its diamond-like brilliance makes it an excellent choice for those who want to stand out. You can find zircon buying guide as well on my YouTube channel.
Symbolism:
Let’s put some magic in our lives and talk about benefits of every stone
- Choose sapphire stone if you seek wisdom, protection, and spiritual enlightenment. Sapphires are also considered symbols of loyalty and trust, making them a popular choice for engagement rings.
- Opt for Lapis Lazuli if you value truth, wisdom, and friendship. It is also a stone of protection, often worn to ward off negative energy.
- Select Blue Zircon if you are looking for a stone that promotes prosperity, honor, and spiritual growth. Its vibrant color and brilliance make it a symbol of high energy and clarity.
Talking about durability:
- Sapphire: With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphires are highly durable and suitable for everyday wear, including engagement rings and other jewelry pieces that are subjected to frequent handling.
- Lapis Lazuli: While softer than sapphire, Lapis Lazuli is best suited for jewelry that is worn with care, such as pendants and earrings. It is less ideal for rings or bracelets that might encounter rough surfaces.
- Blue Zircon: With a hardness of 7.5, Blue Zircon is fairly durable but should still be worn with some caution to avoid scratching. It is an excellent choice for occasional wear or special occasion jewelry.
September's birthstones offer a rich tapestry of colors, histories, and meanings, providing a wealth of options for gemstone enthusiasts. Whether you are drawn to the regal and timeless elegance of sapphire, the historical and mystical allure of Lapis Lazuli, or the brilliant and unique sparkle of Blue Zircon, each gemstone brings its own special qualities and significance. Embrace the beauty and symbolism of these stones to add a touch of magic and meaning to your jewelry collection. Whether as a personal treasure or a thoughtful gift, these September birthstones are sure to be cherished for years to come.