August boasts a unique distinction among the birthstone months: it possesses not one, but three recognized birthstones – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. While sardonyx holds historical significance as the original August birthstone, and peridot has long been favored, recent recognition has elevated red spinel to prominence, particularly as a vibrant alternative to ruby. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of both spinel and peridot, the most celebrated of August’s trio of gemstones.
A History of Confusion and Recognition
For centuries, vibrant red spinels were often mistaken for rubies, particularly in historical jewelry and royal collections. As noted in historical accounts, many “rubies” adorning crowns and in the collections of ancient civilizations were, in fact, spinel. The British State Crown, for example, features a large red gem previously believed to be a ruby, but later identified as a spinel. Similarly, numerous “rubies” within Indian collections are now understood to be spinel. This confusion stemmed from the visual similarity and the fact that both gemstones were often found in the same mining locations.
The distinction between spinel and ruby became clearer with the advancement of gemological science. Spinel was officially added as an August birthstone in 2016 by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America, acknowledging its rich history and exceptional qualities. This addition provides August-born individuals with a wider range of options beyond the traditional peridot.
Peridot, on the other hand, has a documented history stretching back thousands of years. The gem was often confused with emerald and topaz in ancient times, with the Red Sea island of Topazios being a significant source, ironically yielding peridot rather than topaz. Historical texts suggest that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have actually consisted largely of peridot. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral is adorned with 200 carats of gems once thought to be emeralds, but now identified as peridot.
Geological Formation and Sources
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide that crystallizes in the cubic system, a structure it shares with garnet and diamond. It forms in metamorphic rocks and is frequently found in the same deposits as corundum, the mineral family encompassing both ruby and sapphire. This geological association contributed to the historical misidentification of red spinel as ruby.
Peridot, a gem variety of the mineral olivine, is formed under extreme conditions. It is found in hardened lava, carried from deep within the Earth’s mantle, and even in meteorites originating from outer space. The specific shade of peridot can vary depending on its source.
While specific mining locations for spinel and peridot are not extensively detailed in the provided sources, the historical context suggests shared origins with ruby and sapphire deposits. Peridot’s formation in volcanic environments indicates a connection to regions with significant volcanic activity.
Gemological Properties
Spinel exhibits a range of colors, including red, blue, green, and black. Red spinel is particularly prized, often rivaling the color intensity of ruby. A key characteristic of spinel is that it tends to be consistently colored throughout the stone, unlike ruby which can display dichroism – exhibiting different hues when viewed from different angles.
Peridot is consistently green, though variations in shade exist depending on its origin. It is a yellowish-green to greenish-yellow gem.
The provided sources do not offer detailed gemological data such as refractive index, specific gravity, or detailed hardness measurements for either spinel or peridot. However, ruby is noted as exceptionally durable, suggesting spinel shares a similar level of hardness due to its frequent historical association and similar geological formation. Peridot is also noted as a prized jewelry stone since ancient times, implying reasonable durability.
A comparative table of birthstone properties, based on the provided sources, is as follows:
| Birthstone | Color(s) | Formation | Historical Confusion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spinel | Red, Blue, Green, Black | Metamorphic Rocks | Often mistaken for Ruby |
| Peridot | Yellowish-Green to Greenish-Yellow | Volcanic Lava, Meteorites | Often mistaken for Emerald and Topaz |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Rubies, closely associated with spinel due to historical misidentification, have long been linked to strength and physicality. They were favored by warriors and believed to increase stamina and calm anger. While the sources do not directly attribute these beliefs to spinel, its historical association suggests a similar symbolism. Spinel is sometimes referred to as a “stone of immortality.”
Peridot has been credited with protective qualities, particularly against nighttime evil spirits. This belief stems from its lively appearance and association with the sun. It was thought that keeping peridot close during the night would ward off negative energies. Peridot was also believed to foster good health, luck, and wealth.
August birthstones, in general, are said to symbolize confidence, empathy, and resilience. They are considered to enhance one’s appearance and bring good fortune.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific care and cleaning instructions for spinel or peridot. However, given the historical association of spinel with durable gemstones like ruby and diamond, it can be inferred that spinel possesses good durability and can withstand regular wear. Peridot, as a volcanic gem, is also likely to be reasonably durable. General gemstone care practices, such as avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, would be advisable for both.
Conclusion
Red spinel and peridot represent the vibrant and diverse birthstones of August. While peridot boasts a long and storied history, the recent recognition of red spinel as a birthstone acknowledges its historical significance and exceptional beauty. Both gemstones offer unique qualities and symbolism, providing August-born individuals with a choice that reflects their personal preferences and appreciation for the enduring allure of gemstones. The addition of spinel to the August birthstone list expands the options available, celebrating the rich history and aesthetic appeal of this often-overlooked gem.