For those born in August, a choice of beautiful gemstones awaits: the vibrant green peridot and the often-overlooked spinel. While peridot has long held the traditional association with this summer month, spinel has recently been recognized as an official August birthstone, offering a wider spectrum of color and a fascinating history. Both stones possess unique qualities and symbolic meanings, making them cherished choices for jewelry and personal adornment. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and significance of both peridot and spinel, based on available information.
A History of Recognition
Peridot boasts a long and storied past, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt around 1500 BC. Known as the “gem of the sun,” it was highly prized and believed to offer protection against nightmares, fostering confidence, health, and positive energy. The ancient Egyptians sourced this gem from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, a location that remained a significant source for centuries, until the early 20th century. Throughout the Middle Ages and into the Victorian era, peridot continued to be valued, adorning church altars, clerical robes, and intricate jewelry pieces.
Spinel, however, has a more complex historical narrative. For centuries, it was frequently mistaken for other gemstones, most notably ruby. Many historically significant “rubies” in royal collections – including the famed Black Prince’s Ruby in the British Crown Jewels, the Timur Ruby, and Catherine the Great’s Ruby – were later identified as, in fact, magnificent spinels. It wasn’t until a few hundred years ago that mineralogists were able to definitively distinguish between the two. In 2016, the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) officially recognized spinel as an August birthstone, acknowledging its beauty, durability, and diverse color range.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation of spinel beyond noting it is a distinct mineral from ruby (corundum). Peridot, however, is known to form within the mantle, often brought to the surface through volcanic activity. The ancient Egyptians sourced their peridot from the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. While the sources do not list current mining locations, the historical significance of Zabargad is noted.
Spinel is found in a variety of geological settings, often alongside other gemstones. The sources highlight its historical presence in royal collections, suggesting it was sourced from regions with access to these materials, though specific locations are not detailed.
Gemological Properties
The sources provide limited gemological data. Peridot is consistently described as a green gemstone, with the intensity of the green hue varying based on the amount of iron present in its crystal structure. It is noted as occurring in only one color, though shades can differ.
Spinel is described as coming in a variety of colors, including red, pink, purple, and a rare vivid blue colored by cobalt. The sources emphasize its durability and beauty, noting it rivals that of ruby.
Both peridot and alexandrite (mentioned as a June birthstone for comparison) are presented as suitable for jewelry, with both being featured in earrings and pendants crafted from sterling silver. Alexandrite is specifically noted for its unique color-changing properties.
The following table summarizes the limited gemological information available from the sources:
| Gemstone | Color(s) | Notable Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Green (varying intensity) | Occurs in only one color |
| Spinel | Red, Pink, Purple, Blue (cobalt-colored) | Durable, rivals ruby in beauty |
| Alexandrite | Color-changing | Unique color-changing properties |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot has a rich history of symbolic association. Ancient Egyptians believed it protected against nightmares and brought confidence, health, and positive energy. This association with the sun likely contributed to its revered status.
While the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs surrounding spinel, they emphasize its historical significance and the intrigue surrounding its past misidentification as ruby. The fact that it adorned royal collections suggests it was considered a stone of power and prestige. Alexandrite is associated with joy, luck, and love.
Jewelry and Presentation
Both peridot and spinel are presented as ideal gemstones for jewelry. The sources showcase earrings and pendants featuring peridot and alexandrite, crafted in sterling silver. The jewelry is described as having exceptional craftsmanship and being suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
The sources emphasize the importance of elegant packaging, noting that the jewelry comes in luxurious boxes, making it ideal for gifting. Hypoallergenic properties are highlighted for both peridot and alexandrite, making them suitable for those with sensitive skin.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for either peridot or spinel. However, given that both are featured in sterling silver settings, standard silver cleaning practices would apply. It is generally recommended to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners when caring for gemstones.
Conclusion
August offers a delightful choice of birthstones, each with its own unique appeal. Peridot, with its ancient history and vibrant green hue, continues to be a cherished gemstone, symbolizing protection, confidence, and positive energy. Spinel, recently recognized as an official August birthstone, offers a wider range of colors and a fascinating story of mistaken identity, ultimately proving its own enduring beauty and durability. Both stones represent a connection to history, nature, and the enduring allure of gemstones.