August is a unique month in the world of birthstones, distinguished by having not one, but three gemstones associated with it: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. This tradition, evolving over centuries, reflects a growing appreciation for gem diversity and provides those born in August with a rich selection of stones, each possessing its own history, beauty, and symbolism. The story of these three gems reveals a fascinating journey through ancient lore, geological discovery, and modern gemological recognition.
History and Lore
The tradition of linking gemstones to birth months has ancient roots, tracing back to biblical texts and evolving through medieval practices originating in Poland or Germany. Initially, August was represented solely by sardonyx, a banded gemstone valued in ancient Rome for its perceived strength and protective qualities. In 1912, the American National Retail Jewelers Association (now Jewelers of America) added peridot to the list, bringing a vibrant green hue to the month’s representation. The most recent addition, spinel, gained official recognition in 2016, completing the trio and offering August-born individuals a wider range of choices.
The origins of associating specific stones with months are complex, influenced by regional variations in jewelry traditions and evolving gemological understanding. Jewelers in North America and Europe have sometimes differed in their birthstone traditions, contributing to the multiple options available for many months, including August. The addition of spinel reflects a modern trend toward offering greater color and affordability options to consumers.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of the August birthstones boasts a unique geological origin. Peridot, a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, forms deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is occasionally brought to the surface through volcanic activity, earning it the nickname “Pele’s Tears” after the Hawaiian goddess of fire. Remarkably, peridot has even been found within meteorites, lending it an extraterrestrial allure.
Spinel, while historically mistaken for ruby due to its similar appearance, forms in metamorphic rocks and alluvial deposits. Its diverse range of colors—including vivid red, pink, orange, blue, and black—contributes to its growing popularity.
Sardonyx, a banded form of chalcedony, is composed of layers of sard (red) and onyx (white), creating a distinctive appearance. Its formation occurs in sedimentary environments, and it has been utilized for thousands of years.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is known for its yellowish-green to greenish-yellow color, a result of its iron content. It is the rare gem-quality variety of olivine. Throughout history, it has often been confused with emerald and topaz.
Spinel, a magnesium aluminum oxide, is appreciated for its brilliance and wide color range. Red spinel, in particular, was often mistaken for ruby for centuries, only recently gaining recognition as a distinct and valuable gemstone.
Sardonyx is a variety of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz. Its defining characteristic is its banded appearance, created by alternating layers of sard and onyx.
A comparison of key gemological properties is shown below:
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Color | Hardness (Mohs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow | 6.5 - 7 |
| Spinel | MgAl₂O₄ | Various (red, pink, orange, blue, black) | 8 |
| Sardonyx | SiO₂ | Banded red, brown, white, and orange | 6.5 - 7 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these August birthstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Peridot, often called the “gem of the Sun” or “evening emerald,” symbolizes joy, abundance, and healing. Ancient Egyptians revered peridot, while some historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have actually consisted of peridot.
Spinel is believed to encourage renewal, vitality, and inspiration. Its vibrant colors are thought to stimulate energy and promote positive change.
Sardonyx represents strength, stability, and protection. In ancient Rome, it was valued for its perceived ability to ward off evil and provide courage.
These symbolic associations have contributed to the enduring appeal of these gemstones, making them meaningful gifts and cherished talismans.
Care and Cleaning
The care required for each August birthstone varies based on its hardness and composition. Peridot, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7, is relatively soft and susceptible to scratches. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones and cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.
Spinel, with a hardness of 8, is more durable and can withstand more wear and tear. It can be cleaned using similar methods as peridot, but ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided.
Sardonyx, also with a hardness of 6.5-7, requires gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the banded surface.
The Evolution of August’s Birthstones
The story of August’s birthstones is one of evolving understanding and appreciation. For centuries, sardonyx held the sole claim as the birthstone for this month. The addition of peridot in 1912 broadened the options, while the recent recognition of spinel in 2016 reflects a growing awareness of its beauty and value. This progression highlights the dynamic nature of birthstone traditions and the ongoing discoveries within the world of gemology. The addition of spinel was driven by a desire to provide consumers with more choices in color, affordability, and availability.
Conclusion
The three birthstones of August – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx – represent a captivating blend of history, geology, and symbolism. From the volcanic origins of peridot to the metamorphic formation of spinel and the sedimentary creation of sardonyx, each gem offers a unique story. Their diverse colors and associated meanings provide August-born individuals with a rich selection of stones to choose from, each reflecting the vibrancy and energy of the summer months. The evolution of August’s birthstone list demonstrates the enduring fascination with gemstones and the ongoing journey to understand and appreciate their beauty and significance.