August is a month rich in gemological diversity, boasting not one, but three official birthstones: Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel. Each of these stones carries a unique set of properties, historical significance, and cultural symbolism, making them fascinating subjects for gemologists, jewelry enthusiasts, and those born under the zodiac signs of Leo and Virgo.
This article explores the geological, historical, and symbolic dimensions of each of these August birthstones. Drawing from authoritative sources, it provides a comprehensive overview of their formation, sources, gemological properties, and the beliefs associated with them across different cultures and eras. Additionally, it offers practical guidance on how to care for and maintain these precious stones in jewelry form.
Introduction
The concept of birthstones dates back thousands of years and has evolved through various cultural and religious traditions. August’s selection of three birthstones reflects both the historical evolution of these traditions and the modern appreciation for the diversity and beauty of gemstones. Sardonyx, the oldest of the three, has been treasured for millennia, while Peridot, the most widely recognized, has captivated people with its vibrant green hue. Spinel, the newest addition to the August birthstone list, has recently gained recognition for its brilliance and color variety.
In this article, we will delve into the origins, properties, and meanings of each of these stones. We will examine their geological formation, the countries where they are mined, their historical uses, and the symbolic beliefs attached to them. By the end, readers will have a deeper appreciation for the gemological richness of August and the cultural heritage these stones represent.
Sardonyx: The Ancient August Birthstone
Sardonyx is a composite gemstone made from bands of sard and onyx, two varieties of chalcedony, a form of microcrystalline quartz. The sard layers are typically a reddish-brown to orange color, while the onyx layers are white or black, creating a striking contrast that has made this stone a favorite for carving and engraving.
Geological Formation and Sources
Sardonyx forms in sedimentary and volcanic rock environments where silica-rich solutions deposit chalcedony in layers over time. The alternating bands of sard and onyx give the stone its distinctive appearance.
India is the major producer of Sardonyx, particularly for stones with strong color contrast. Other significant sources include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States.
Historical Significance
Sardonyx has been revered since antiquity. Its use dates back to the 2nd Dynasty of Egypt, over 4,000 years ago, where it was believed to possess healing properties for bones. It was also used in signet rings and seals, especially by the ancient Egyptians, because hot wax did not stick to its surface.
The stone appears in the Old Testament as one of the stones in the High Priest’s breastplate, symbolizing spiritual strength. Roman soldiers wore sardonyx rings engraved with images of Mars, the god of war, believing it would protect them in battle.
During the Renaissance, Sardonyx was worn by orators and public speakers for its supposed power of eloquence. It was also believed to help single women attract ideal partners and support happy marriages.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sardonyx is associated with strength, courage, and protection. It is believed to bring victory in conflicts and enhance communication skills. Historically, it has been used in amulets, cameos, and intaglios, particularly in ancient Greece and Rome.
In modern times, it continues to be valued not only for its beauty but also for its historical and cultural resonance.
Peridot: The Green Gem of August
Peridot is the most well-known and widely recognized of the August birthstones. It belongs to the olivine mineral group and is distinguished by its yellow-green to greenish-yellow color, caused by the presence of iron in its chemical composition.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot forms in mafic igneous rocks, typically in association with lava flows. It is created under extreme heat and pressure, deep within the Earth’s mantle. Interestingly, peridot can also be found in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones with an extra-terrestrial origin.
High-quality peridot has been mined in Egypt since ancient times, where it was discovered around 2000 BCE. Other significant sources include Burma (Myanmar), the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Pakistan, and China.
Peridot is also found in pallasite meteorites, which are stony-iron meteorites that contain olivine crystals embedded in a metallic matrix. This connection to space adds an air of mystery to the stone, as it is believed to hold clues about the formation of the solar system.
Gemological Properties
Peridot has the following key gemological properties:
- Mineral: Olivine
- Color: Yellowish green to olive green
- Refractive Index: 1.65 to 1.69
- Birefringence: 0.035 to 0.038
- Specific Gravity: 3.34
- Mohs Hardness: 6.5 to 7
These properties make peridot a relatively hard and durable gem, suitable for use in jewelry. However, it is softer than corundum (ruby or sapphire) and should be handled with care.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Peridot has a rich and varied history. It has often been mistaken for other gems, such as topaz and emerald, due to its green color and brilliance. In fact, the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral, Germany, was decorated with gems believed to be emeralds, but modern analysis has confirmed they are peridot.
The island of Topazios in the Red Sea, which may have given its name to the gemstone topaz, was actually a source of peridot.
Peridot is also known by several names, including Chrysolite and Gem of the Sun. It is associated with the 16th wedding anniversary, symbolizing abundance, protection, and positivity.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Properties
Peridot is believed to have several metaphysical properties. It is thought to promote peaceful sleep and balance the mind and body. Some believe it has emotional healing properties, helping to reduce depression and anxiety and promoting happiness and contentment.
Historically, peridot has been used as a charming stone against nightmares, and it is said to absorb negative energy while promoting positive energy.
Spinel: The Emerging August Birthstone
Spinel is a relatively new addition to the list of August birthstones, officially added in 2016. Despite its recent recognition, it has a long history of being mistaken for ruby and sapphire, due to its vibrant colors and brilliance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Spinel is a garnet-like mineral with a different chemical composition, and it is found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. It can occur in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and green.
Major sources of spinel include:
- Myanmar (Burma): Known for producing hot pink and red spinel.
- Sri Lanka: Famous for blue, pink, and purple spinel, particularly in the Central Highlands and Ratnapura District.
- Vietnam: The Luc Yen region in northern Vietnam produces deep red, purple, pink, and blue spinel.
- Tanzania: In 2007, pinkish and orangy-red spinel was discovered here.
Gemological Properties
Spinel has the following key properties:
- Color: Red, pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, violet-blue
- Hardness (Mohs): 8
- Refractive Index: 1.718 to 1.735
- Specific Gravity: 3.6 to 4.1
Spinel is harder than peridot and rivaling ruby and sapphire in brilliance, making it a durable and attractive gemstone for jewelry.
Historical Significance
Spinel has a fascinating history of being misidentified as ruby. For centuries, many red spinels were mistaken for rubies, including the “Black Prince’s Ruby”, which is actually a spinel. It was only in the 20th century that gemologists began to distinguish spinel from ruby and sapphire.
Spinel has been used in royal and historical jewelry for centuries, including in British Crown Jewels and Persian and Indian collections.
Symbolism and Modern Recognition
Spinel is now recognized as a distinct and valuable gemstone, and its vibrant colors and affordability have made it a popular choice for fine jewelry. It is also the wedding anniversary gift for 22 years of marriage, symbolizing passion, love, and vitality.
In modern times, spinel is increasingly appreciated for its beauty and versatility, and its addition to the August birthstone list in 2016 reflects its growing popularity and recognition in the gem world.
Comparative Gemological Table
| Gemstone | Color Range | Mohs Hardness | Composition | Major Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Yellowish green to olive green | 6.5 - 7 | Olivine (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ | Egypt, Burma, USA, Brazil, Mexico |
| Sardonyx | Reddish-brown, white, black | 6.5 - 7 | Chalcedony (SiO₂) | India, Brazil, Germany, USA |
| Spinel | Red, pink, blue, violet, etc. | 8 | Spinel (MgAl₂O₄) | Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania |
Symbolism and Cultural Beliefs
Each of the August birthstones has a rich tapestry of symbolism and cultural beliefs attached to it:
Peridot is known as the “Gem of the Sun” and is associated with positive energy, protection, and emotional balance. It is believed to promote tranquility and peaceful sleep, and it is used in spiritual practices to absorb negativity.
Sardonyx is associated with strength, courage, and protection. It was historically used in seals and signet rings, and it was believed to bring eloquence to orators and success in battle to soldiers. During the Renaissance, it was believed to help attract love and ensure happy marriages.
Spinel, though a newer addition, has been recognized for its vibrant colors and brilliance. It is often mistaken for ruby and sapphire but is now appreciated for its unique beauty and affordability. It symbolizes passion, vitality, and love, and it is the wedding anniversary gemstone for 22 years of marriage.
Care and Maintenance of August Birthstone Jewelry
Proper care is essential to preserve the beauty and longevity of August birthstone jewelry, as each gemstone has different durability and cleaning requirements.
Peridot
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7 (relatively hard but softer than corundum)
- Cleaning: Use warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid steam cleaning and ultrasonic cleaners, as peridot can be sensitive to high heat and vibrations.
- Storage: Store peridot separately from harder stones to avoid scratches.
Sardonyx
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7
- Cleaning: Sardonyx is durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush.
- Storage: Store sardonyx away from abrasive materials and high heat.
Spinel
- Hardness: 8 (very durable)
- Cleaning: Spinel can be cleaned with ultrasonic or steam cleaners and warm, soapy water.
- Storage: Spinel can be stored with other gemstones due to its high hardness.
Conclusion
August is uniquely blessed with three distinct and historically significant birthstones: Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel. Each of these stones has a rich geological background, a variety of sources, and a deep cultural and symbolic history.
Peridot, with its vibrant green color and extra-terrestrial origin, has long been a symbol of positive energy and protection. Sardonyx, the oldest of the three, has been used for millennia in seals, rings, and carvings, and is believed to bring eloquence, courage, and love. Spinel, the newest addition, is gaining popularity for its vibrant colors and brilliance, often mistaken for ruby and sapphire but now appreciated in its own right.
Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or metaphysical properties, these August birthstones offer a wealth of beauty and meaning, making them a perfect choice for jewelry, gifts, and personal adornment.