August boasts not one, but three recognized birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. While peridot currently enjoys prominence as the most widely recognized August birthstone, spinel has gained appreciation in recent years, and sardonyx holds a historical significance as the original gem associated with this month. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and care of these three fascinating gemstones, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
Sardonyx claims the longest history of the three, with use dating back over 4,000 years. The sources do not detail specific historical uses beyond its status as the original August birthstone. Peridot’s history is interwoven with confusion with other green gems. Throughout history, peridot was often mistaken for emerald and topaz, particularly from sources on the Red Sea island of Topazios – which ironically, yielded peridot rather than topaz. Some historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have actually consisted largely of peridot. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral features 200 carats of gems once believed to be emeralds, now identified as peridot.
Spinel’s history is marked by a long period of misidentification. For centuries, red spinel was mistaken for ruby, a more highly valued gem. Only recently has spinel been recognized and appreciated for its own unique qualities. The sources do not provide detailed historical lore for spinel or sardonyx beyond their initial association with the month of August. Peridot is described as symbolizing power, influence, and a wonderful year to the wearer.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is uniquely formed under extreme conditions, originating in the hardened lava carried from deep within the Earth’s mantle, and even found in meteorites. The sources do not specify other geological formation details.
Sardonyx is sourced from a variety of locations, including India, known for producing specimens with good contrast between colored layers. Additional sources include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States.
The sources do not provide information regarding the geological formation or specific sources of spinel.
Gemological Properties
The three August birthstones differ significantly in their gemological properties. Peridot is the yellowish-green to greenish-yellow variety of the mineral olivine. It registers between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This relative softness makes it unsuitable for daily wear in rings, as it is prone to damage. Peridot can also be affected by acids and prolonged exposure to acidic perspiration.
Sardonyx falls between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale, similar to peridot. It is a variety of chalcedony and is often dyed. Heat treatments, such as those used in jewelry manufacturing or repair, can affect the color of dyed sardonyx.
The Mohs hardness of spinel is not provided in the sources.
A table summarizing the available hardness data is provided below:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Peridot | 6.5 - 7 |
| Sardonyx | 6.5 - 7 |
| Spinel | Not Specified |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sources primarily focus on peridot’s symbolism, associating it with strength and personal growth. Orleon specifically highlights peridot as representing strength and growth. The sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with sardonyx or spinel, beyond their general association with the month of August.
Care and Cleaning
Care should be taken when wearing peridot, especially in rings, due to its relative softness. Steam and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided due to the risk of thermal shock. The safest cleaning method for peridot is warm soapy water applied with a soft-bristle brush. It should be stored carefully to prevent scratching by harder gemstones.
Sardonyx also requires careful cleaning. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be used with caution. As with peridot, warm soapy water and a soft-bristle brush are the safest options. The sources note that sardonyx is commonly dyed, and heat can affect the color.
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for spinel.
August Birthstone Rings
The sources highlight the availability of August birthstone rings featuring peridot. William Edouard and Saslow’s & Henebry’s both offer peridot rings. Saslow’s & Henebry’s rings feature platinum plating over sterling silver, designed to be hypoallergenic and comfortable for daily wear. These rings are made to order in specific sizes due to the platinum plating, which cannot be resized through traditional methods. Orleon offers peridot rings as part of their August Birthstone collection, emphasizing the gemstone’s bright green hues.
Conclusion
August’s birthstones – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx – each possess unique histories and gemological properties. While peridot currently enjoys the most recognition, the historical significance of sardonyx and the recent appreciation for spinel contribute to a rich and diverse selection for those born in August. Peridot’s association with strength and growth, combined with its captivating green hue, makes it a popular choice for jewelry. Careful consideration should be given to the relative softness of peridot and sardonyx when selecting and caring for these gemstones.