August Birthstones: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx – A Trio of Choices

August boasts a unique position in the calendar of birthstones, offering not one, but three distinct gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. While peridot and sardonyx have historical ties to the month, spinel was officially added as a modern August birthstone in 2016, expanding the options for those born in this late summer month. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism associated with each of these captivating gems, drawing upon established traditions and recent developments in birthstone recognition.

A History of August’s Gems

The concept of birthstones has evolved significantly over time. Its origins can be traced back to the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus, where twelve stones represented the tribes of Israel. In the first century A.D., the Jewish historian Josephus linked these stones to the twelve signs of the zodiac, but the association with specific birth months didn’t become widespread until the 18th century. Initially, August was primarily represented by sardonyx.

The standardization of birthstones began in 1912 with the National Association of Jewelers, creating a “modern list” that has remained largely unchanged until recent additions. Further updates occurred in 1952 with the inclusion of alexandrite, citrine, tourmaline, and zircon, and again in 2002 with tanzanite. The most recent change came in 2016 when the American Gem Trade Association and the National Association of Jewelers jointly recognized spinel as an official August birthstone, alongside peridot and sardonyx. This addition reflects both evolving tastes and a desire to offer a wider range of choices to consumers. The existence of ancient, traditional, and modern lists allows for personal preference and interpretation.

Peridot: The Olive-Green Gem

Peridot is perhaps the most well-known of the August birthstones. Its vibrant greenish-yellow hue is often associated with good fortune. Historically, it was also given to celebrate the 16th year of marriage. The intensity of the color depends on the amount of iron present within the stone, ranging from yellowish-green to olive green.

Spinel: A Newly Recognized Beauty

Spinel’s inclusion as an August birthstone in 2016 brought renewed attention to this often-overlooked gem. For centuries, red spinel was frequently mistaken for ruby, and it was only in the 19th century that spinel was recognized as a distinct mineral species. Its addition to the birthstone list provides a vivid and exciting alternative to the more traditional choices.

Sardonyx: The Original August Stone

Sardonyx served as the original birthstone for August. While less commonly featured in modern jewelry, it holds a significant place in the history of birthstones.

Geological Formation and Sources

The sources for these three gemstones vary considerably. Peridot is formed in the Earth’s mantle and brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Notable sources include Egypt, Myanmar (Burma), Pakistan, and the United States.

Spinel forms in metamorphic rocks and alluvial deposits. Significant sources include Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tajikistan.

Sardonyx is a variety of chalcedony, a form of silica, and is formed through the banding of sard (red) and onyx (black) layers. Sources include India, Brazil, and the United States.

Gemological Properties

Each of these August birthstones possesses unique gemological properties. While a comprehensive comparison requires data not provided in the sources, some key characteristics can be outlined:

Gemstone	Color	Hardness (Mohs Scale)	Notable Properties
Peridot	Greenish-yellow to olive green	Not specified	Color dependent on iron content
Spinel	Variety of colors (red, pink, blue, purple, black)	Not specified	Historically mistaken for ruby
Sardonyx	Banded red and black	Not specified	Variety of chalcedony

Further detailed gemological data, such as refractive index and specific gravity, are not available within the provided sources.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Birthstones are often imbued with symbolic meanings and believed to possess metaphysical properties. Garnet, while primarily a January birthstone, is mentioned as being associated with karma and good health. Amethyst, the February birthstone, is believed to have calming virtues. Aquamarine, for March, symbolizes elegance and refinement. These associations highlight the broader tradition of attributing specific powers and meanings to gemstones.

Peridot is associated with good fortune. Garnet is linked to love, strength, and well-being, and is believed to dispel nervousness and fill one with energy. Amethyst is said to link humans to the divine universe and promote positive energy. Aquamarine is believed to boost loyalty and foster a happy love life, and was historically considered protective for sailors.

Care and Cleaning

The care required for each gemstone depends on its hardness and other physical properties. While specific cleaning instructions are not detailed in the provided sources, general guidelines can be inferred. Given that hardness data is unavailable, it is advisable to handle all three stones with care. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth is generally recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, which could potentially damage the gemstones.

Choosing the Perfect August Birthstone

The addition of spinel to the list of August birthstones provides a wider range of options for those seeking a meaningful gemstone. Whether one prefers the vibrant green of peridot, the captivating colors of spinel, or the banded beauty of sardonyx, there is an August birthstone to suit every taste. The choice is ultimately a personal one, influenced by aesthetic preference, symbolic meaning, and budget. Exploring alternative stones, considering affordable look-alikes, and understanding the history of each gem can deepen one’s connection to the chosen birthstone.

Conclusion

The August birthstones – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx – represent a rich tapestry of history, geology, and symbolism. From ancient origins in the Breastplate of Aaron to the modern standardization efforts of the National Association of Jewelers, the story of these gemstones reflects evolving cultural beliefs and gemological understanding. The 2016 addition of spinel as an official August birthstone demonstrates the ongoing evolution of this tradition, offering a wider range of choices and celebrating the enduring allure of these captivating gems.