Birthstone of the Month (September): Sapphire

Introduction
The September birthstone Sapphire is one of the most important coloured gemstones. Sapphire has been cherished for thousands of years and is long associated with romance and royalty. Originally, the term ‘sapphire’ comes from the Greek word sappheiros, which refers to the blue variety of corundum; however, it comes in a variety of other colours. This September birthstone is known for its durability and toughness.

History
For centuries, sapphire has been adorned by the royalty on their robes and crowns. The royal elite of ancient Roman and Greek traditions believed that blue sapphire protected the owner from evil eye, harm, and envy. In the Middle Ages, the clerics wore sapphires because they symbolized heaven. It has also been reputed to have healing powers and curing of eye diseases and plague boils by the Europeans in medieval times. Ancient Persians believed that the earth rested on a giant sapphire, making the sky appear blue in colour. Moreover, the September birthstone has also been reputed for being an antidote to poison.

Some of the famous sapphires of the world include the Rockefeller Sapphire, acquired by the philanthropist and financier John D. Rockefeller Jr. from an Indian king in 1934, and the sapphire engagement ring surrounded by diamonds worn by Princess Diana. Traditionally, sapphire symbolizes faithfulness, sincerity, truth, and nobility.

Characteristics
Sapphire is a relatively hard birthstone, with a Mohs scale ranking of 9. However, its quality of excellent toughness and no cleavage makes it breakable on being struck. These characteristics of sapphire makes it a great gemstone for the choice of rings and other daily wear jewellery. Sapphires are often artificially treated to improve its colour, clarity, and overall appearance. Hence, it is important to ask if the gemstone is treated and by what method. Dyed and fracture-filled sapphires have the tendency to get damaged easily by even mild acids like lemon juice.

Historically, sapphire is found mostly in Kashmir, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. Significant amounts of sapphire have also been found in Madagascar, Australia, United States, Cambodia, Thailand, and other Asian and African countries. Sapphire is typically found alongside the deposits of ruby.

Caring and Cleaning
The safest choice of cleaning the September birthstone is by using warm, soapy water and cleaning it with a damp cloth. However, fracture-filled and dyed sapphire must only be cleaned with a damp cloth. For untreated, lattice diffusion-treated, and heat-treated sapphires, steam cleaners and ultrasonic cleaners are a safe choice.

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