The month of August is uniquely distinguished in the world of gemstones by its trio of birthstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. Each of these gemstones carries a rich palette of colors that have captivated cultures, jewelers, and collectors for centuries. While peridot is the most widely recognized as the August birthstone, sardonyx and spinel also hold historical and gemological significance. This article delves into the color characteristics of each of these gemstones, exploring their origins, their symbolic meanings, and their place in both historical and modern jewelry traditions.
The color of a gemstone is not only a visual feature but also a key to understanding its composition, formation, and cultural significance. In the case of August’s birthstones, the range of hues—from the vibrant greens of peridot to the contrasting bands of sardonyx and the diverse tones of spinel—offers a fascinating glimpse into the geological and historical narratives that have shaped their use and appreciation.
History and Lore
Peridot: The Green Gem of Ancient Reverence
Peridot’s deep green hues have made it a gem of enduring fascination. Known in ancient times as the “gem of the Sun,” peridot was revered by the Egyptians, who believed it held powerful healing properties. Its vibrant green color was associated with vitality and renewal, making it a symbol of hope and good fortune.
Peridot’s connection to ancient history is also evident in its misidentification with other gemstones. Historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have actually been peridot, a theory supported by the discovery of peridot in the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral. These 200-carat gemstones, once believed to be emeralds, are now recognized as peridot, highlighting the gem’s historical and cultural importance.
The gemstone’s green tones range from lime green to deep olive and yellow-tinged green, making it versatile for both day and evening wear. Ancient Romans also held peridot in high regard, using it in jewelry and even referring to it as the “evening emerald” for its visibility in low light.
Sardonyx: A Stone of Contrast and Tradition
Sardonyx, the oldest of August’s birthstones, has a distinct color scheme that sets it apart. Composed of two types of chalcedony—sard and onyx—this gemstone features alternating bands of reddish-brown to dark orange sard and white or black onyx. The contrast between these colors gives sardonyx a striking appearance that has made it a favored material for seals, cameos, and intaglios.
Ancient Romans used sardonyx extensively for signet rings, as the stone’s surface did not retain hot wax, making it ideal for sealing documents. The gemstone also appears in the Old Testament, where it is listed as one of the stones on the High Priest’s breastplate. Roman soldiers believed sardonyx brought them good luck and protection, and it was worn as a talisman during times of war.
In addition to its historical uses, sardonyx carries symbolic meanings that have endured through time. It is associated with spirituality, open communication, and prosperity, making it a meaningful choice for jewelry that conveys intention and meaning.
Spinel: A Gem of Diverse and Vibrant Colors
Spinel is the newest of August’s birthstones, officially recognized in 2016. Unlike peridot and sardonyx, spinel comes in a wide range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, pink, and purple. This diversity has made spinel a popular alternative to ruby and sapphire, particularly for its vivid red and blue hues.
Spinel’s colors are not only visually striking but also historically significant. The gemstone has often been mistaken for ruby and sapphire due to its similar appearance. For example, many Spanish kings in the 14th century believed they were wearing ruby when in fact the stones were spinel. It was not until centuries later that gemologists identified the correct composition of these stones.
The name “spinel” is derived from the Latin word spina, meaning “thorn,” a reference to the pointed shape of the crystals in which it is often found. Each color of spinel has a distinct name; for example, red spinel is sometimes called “ruby spinel,” while blue spinel is referred to as “sapphirine.” This naming tradition reflects the gemstone’s close resemblance to other precious stones and its historical role as a substitute for them.
Spinel is also known as “the immortality gemstone,” a title that speaks to its enduring beauty and the belief that it can bring vitality and long life. Its colors, particularly red and blue, are associated with passion, courage, and wisdom, making spinel a meaningful choice for those who value both aesthetic and symbolic qualities in their gemstones.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot: Formed in Extreme Conditions
Peridot is a member of the olivine mineral group, and its formation is closely linked to extreme geological conditions. It is found in volcanic lava that has carried it from deep within the Earth’s mantle, as well as in meteorites that have traveled from outer space. This dual origin—both terrestrial and extraterrestrial—makes peridot one of the few gemstones that can be traced to cosmic events.
The most notable sources of peridot include the Red Sea island of Zabargad, where it has been mined for thousands of years. Other significant sources include the United States, particularly in the state of Arizona, and more recently, in Tanzania. In 2005, peridot was discovered in comet dust brought back by the Stardust robotic space probe, further reinforcing its connection to the cosmos.
Peridot’s green color is due to the presence of iron within its crystal structure. The intensity of the green hue can vary depending on the concentration of iron, with deeper, more saturated greens being the most prized. This gemstone is not light-dependent, meaning it retains its color under all lighting conditions, a rare trait among colored gemstones.
Sardonyx: A Combination of Chalcedony
Sardonyx is a banded form of chalcedony, a type of cryptocrystalline quartz. Its red and brown sard bands are composed of iron-rich chalcedony, while the white or black onyx bands are made of silica-rich chalcedony. The alternating layers of these materials give sardonyx its distinctive appearance and make it a popular choice for carved cameos and intaglios.
Historically, sardonyx was mined in various parts of the ancient world, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Today, the primary sources of sardonyx include Brazil, India, and Madagascar. These regions continue to supply the gemstone for use in jewelry and decorative objects, maintaining its presence in both traditional and contemporary markets.
Spinel: A Diverse and Colorful Gemstone
Spinel is a mineral that occurs in a wide range of colors, each determined by the trace elements present in its crystal structure. Red spinel, for example, gets its color from chromium, while blue spinel is colored by cobalt. This variety of colors makes spinel one of the most visually diverse gemstones in the world.
The primary sources of spinel include Burma (Myanmar), Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. In recent years, new deposits in Mozambique and Vietnam have also been discovered, expanding the availability of this gemstone. The 2007 discovery of pinkish and orangy red spinel in Tanzania was particularly significant, as it introduced new color variations to the market and attracted the attention of gem collectors and jewelers alike.
Spinel’s hardness on the Mohs scale is 8, making it a durable gemstone that is well-suited for use in rings, bracelets, and other types of jewelry. Its stability in light and chemical resistance further contribute to its popularity as a gemstone that can withstand everyday wear.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot: A Stone of Joy and Protection
Peridot has long been associated with positive emotions and spiritual protection. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to have healing properties and was used in amulets to ward off nightmares and negative energies. The gemstone was also thought to bring good fortune and promote emotional stability, making it a popular choice for those seeking inner peace and joy.
In medieval times, peridot was used in religious artifacts and was believed to have the power to purify the soul. Its green color is often linked to growth, renewal, and vitality, reinforcing its role as a gemstone of transformation and healing.
Modern metaphysical beliefs continue to attribute positive qualities to peridot. It is said to enhance creativity, encourage self-expression, and support emotional healing. As a birthstone for August, peridot is seen as a symbol of optimism and the ability to overcome challenges with grace and resilience.
Sardonyx: A Stone of Strength and Communication
Sardonyx is believed to enhance communication and promote clear thinking. Its contrasting bands of color symbolize the balance between different aspects of life, such as action and contemplation, or passion and reason. This duality makes sardonyx a powerful gemstone for those who seek to maintain harmony in their personal and professional lives.
In addition to its role as a communication aid, sardonyx is also associated with courage and protection. It was worn by Roman soldiers as a talisman for battle, and it is still believed to provide a sense of security and confidence to those who wear it. The gemstone is also linked to prosperity and abundance, making it a popular choice for those who want to attract success and financial stability.
Spinel: A Stone of Passion and Vitality
Spinel is often regarded as a gemstone of passion and vitality. Its vivid red and blue colors are associated with energy, courage, and emotional intensity. Red spinel, in particular, is believed to stimulate the heart chakra and promote love and compassion. Blue spinel is linked to wisdom and clarity, making it a valuable stone for those who seek to enhance their intellectual and emotional growth.
Spinel is also considered a stone of immortality, reflecting its historical role as a substitute for ruby and its enduring beauty. It is believed to bring strength and resilience to those who wear it, helping them to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The gemstone is also associated with protection, particularly in situations that require courage and decisiveness.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot: Gentle Handling for Optimal Preservation
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively durable but still sensitive to impact and heat. To maintain its brilliance, peridot should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can also be used, but care should be taken to avoid exposing the gemstone to high heat, which can cause discoloration.
Peridot is not light-dependent, so it does not fade in natural or artificial light. However, it should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. When not being worn, it is best to keep peridot in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box.
Sardonyx: Durable and Low-Maintenance
Sardonyx is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are also safe to use, making sardonyx an easy gemstone to maintain.
Due to its cryptocrystalline structure, sardonyx is resistant to most chemicals and is stable under normal conditions. It should be stored away from abrasive materials to avoid scratches. Sardonyx can be worn daily without concern for damage, making it an excellent choice for rings, bracelets, and pendants.
Spinel: Resilient and Easy to Clean
Spinel is one of the most durable gemstones in August’s collection, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water, ultrasonic, or steam cleaners without risk of damage. Spinel is also stable in light and resistant to most chemicals, making it a low-maintenance gemstone.
Because of its durability, spinel is well-suited for everyday wear in rings, earrings, and bracelets. It can be stored with other gemstones without risk of scratching, and it does not require special precautions for handling or cleaning. Spinel’s resilience and beauty make it a practical and stylish choice for those who want a gemstone that can stand the test of time.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each offer a unique and captivating color palette that reflects their geological origins and cultural significance. Peridot’s vibrant greens have made it a symbol of joy and protection, while sardonyx’s contrasting bands of color represent strength and balance. Spinel, with its diverse range of hues, brings a sense of passion and vitality to August’s birthstone selection.
These gemstones have been treasured for centuries, not only for their beauty but also for the meanings and beliefs associated with them. Whether worn for their aesthetic appeal, spiritual significance, or historical value, August’s birthstones continue to inspire and enchant gemstone lovers around the world.
Understanding the colors, properties, and symbolism of these gemstones allows us to appreciate their role in both historical and contemporary jewelry traditions. Whether used in fine jewelry, symbolic pieces, or everyday accessories, peridot, sardonyx, and spinel remain enduring representations of the rich and diverse world of gemstones.