The world of birthstones offers a fascinating intersection of history, geology, and cultural belief. While each month boasts its own designated gems, some months, like August and December, are distinguished by having multiple birthstones. This practice stems from historical traditions, evolving industry preferences, and the desire to provide a wider range of choices for those born within those months. This article will explore the birthstones associated with August – peridot, sardonyx, and spinel – and December – turquoise, blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, and lapis lazuli – detailing their origins, properties, and significance as understood through available gemological and historical records.
August Birthstones: A Trio of Choices
August is unique in possessing three officially recognized birthstones: peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. The inclusion of three stones reflects a blend of ancient tradition and more recent additions to the birthstone canon. Peridot is generally considered the primary August birthstone, enjoying widespread recognition and association with the month. However, sardonyx holds historical importance, while spinel was added to the list in 2016, expanding the options available to those born in August.
Peridot, a gem variety of the mineral olivine, is known for its distinctive yellowish-green to greenish-yellow hue. Its formation occurs under extreme conditions, often found within hardened lava carried from deep within the Earth’s mantle, and even within meteorites. Historically, peridot was often mistaken for other gems, such as topaz and emerald. The Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral features 200 carats of gems once believed to be emeralds, but are, in fact, peridot. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have included peridot.
Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, boasts a history stretching back over 4,000 years. Its layered banding of red and white creates a striking appearance.
Spinel, while a more recent addition to the August birthstone list, has gained prominence as consumers seek alternatives to ruby, a gem with which red spinel was frequently mistaken for centuries.
December Birthstones: A Spectrum of Color and Tradition
December presents an even more diverse selection of birthstones, with five traditional gems: turquoise, blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, and lapis lazuli. This abundance of choice reflects the rich history and varied cultural associations surrounding the month. The modern birthstones of December – blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite – offer a range of colors and metaphysical properties. Traditional gems, like turquoise and lapis lazuli, continue to hold appeal due to their historical significance and unique aesthetic qualities.
Turquoise, a modern December birthstone, has been revered for thousands of years, considered a talisman of protection, prosperity, and luck by ancient shamans.
Blue Topaz, a gentle and serene gem, is the Hindu birthstone for December. It is believed to stimulate self-esteem and learning, calming emotions and connecting individuals to spiritual sources, making it ideal for meditation.
Lapis Lazuli, historically considered a December birthstone prior to the 1950s, was prized by ancient royalty and artists. It is associated with self-mastery, protection, and mental clarity, offering deep peace and stress relief.
Zircon, which replaced lapis lazuli as a recognized December birthstone after 1952, exhibits a quiet vibration and comes in a variety of colors, with blue zircon being the most commonly associated with the month. It is celebrated for its brilliance and historical and geological value as one of the oldest minerals on Earth.
Tanzanite, added to the December birthstone list in 2002, is highly prized for its unique blue to violet color and rarity, found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is considered a protective and soothing stone, facilitating the sharing of spiritual insights.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
While each birthstone possesses unique characteristics, a comparison of their key gemological properties provides a clearer understanding of their individual qualities.
| Birthstone | Chemical Formula | Color | Hardness (Mohs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ | Yellowish-green to greenish-yellow | 6.5 - 7 |
| Sardonyx | SiO₂ | Banded red and white | 6.5 - 7 |
| Spinel | MgAl₂O₄ | Various, including red, pink, blue | 8 |
| Turquoise | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | Blue to green | 5 - 6 |
| Blue Zircon | ZrSiO₄ | Blue | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| Blue Topaz | Al₂SiO₄(OH,F)₂ | Blue | 8 |
| Tanzanite | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH) | Blue to violet | 6 - 7 |
| Lapis Lazuli | (Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(SO₄,S,Cl)₂ | Deep blue | 5 - 6 |
The Mohs hardness scale, as illustrated above, provides a relative measure of a mineral’s resistance to scratching. This is a crucial factor in determining a gemstone’s durability and suitability for various types of jewelry. Topaz and spinel, with a hardness of 8, are the most durable of the listed birthstones, while turquoise and lapis lazuli, with a hardness of 5-6, require more careful handling.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The historical and cultural significance of these birthstones is as varied as their geological origins. The practice of associating gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, with roots in biblical texts and early cultural practices. These colored gems were believed to be blessed, offering protection and various benefits to those who wore them.
December birthstones, in particular, have a long and storied history. Turquoise and zircon have been considered mainstays for centuries, representing the chill of winter with their blue hues. Ruby was also historically associated with December, believed to sharpen the mind and encourage courtly love. Chrysoprase, the old Russian birthstone for December, was thought to bring good fortune and mend broken hearts. Onyx, the Tibetan birthstone for December, offered self-mastery and protective energy. Bloodstone, another traditional December birthstone, was a stone of courage, renewing energy and grounding vigor.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of any gemstone. Considering the varying hardness levels of the August and December birthstones, different approaches are necessary.
For more durable stones like spinel, topaz, and zircon, routine cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush is generally sufficient. However, softer stones like peridot, turquoise, and lapis lazuli require more gentle handling. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to sunlight. Regular bathing in full moonlight and cleansing with selenite or sage smoke are recommended for all gemstones to maintain their energetic properties. Removing jewelry daily to allow it to rest is also advisable.
Conclusion
The birthstones associated with August and December represent a rich tapestry of geological origins, historical significance, and cultural beliefs. From the vibrant green of peridot to the deep blue of tanzanite, each gem offers a unique aesthetic appeal and a connection to the past. The multiple birthstone options for both months provide a diverse range of choices, allowing individuals to select a gem that resonates with their personal preferences and beliefs. Understanding the properties and history of these stones enhances their appreciation and ensures their enduring beauty for generations to come.