August is a month of vibrant energy and warmth, and its birthstones—Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel—reflect this dynamic character with their rich history, captivating beauty, and unique gemological properties. Among these three stones, Peridot is the most widely recognized and cherished. Known for its vivid green hue and storied past, it has long been a symbol of protection, vitality, and natural beauty. Sardonyx, with its striking banding of red and white, and Spinel, with its dazzling array of colors, each offer their own charm and historical significance. Together, they represent the diverse and multifaceted nature of August's gemstone heritage.
This article will delve into the history, geology, symbolism, and care of these three August birthstones. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, this guide will provide a comprehensive and authoritative look into the world of these remarkable stones.
History and Lore
Peridot
Peridot has a history that spans thousands of years, with its use dating back to ancient Egypt around 1500 BC. The Egyptians referred to it as the “gem of the sun,” believing that it brought them protection from nightmares and infused them with confidence, health, and positive energy. One of the primary sources of peridot for the ancient Egyptians was the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea. This island, rich in olivine deposits, remained a significant source of peridot until the early 20th century.
During the Middle Ages, peridot was highly valued by European royalty and clergy. It was often used to decorate church altars and clerical robes, symbolizing the light of divine wisdom. The stone's popularity continued into the Victorian era, where it was frequently incorporated into jewelry. In modern times, peridot has retained its allure and is now one of the most popular August birthstones.
Interestingly, peridot has also been found in meteorites and hardened lava flows, making it one of the few gemstones that can be traced back to extraterrestrial origins. This connection to space adds to its mystique and historical significance. The stone’s nickname, “evening emerald,” highlights its ability to glow even in low light, a feature that has made it a favorite among jewelers and collectors.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is the oldest of the three August birthstones and is a type of chalcedony that features alternating bands of sard (a reddish-brown to orange chalcedony) and onyx (a white or black chalcedony). The name Sardonyx is derived from its appearance, combining the colors and textures of the two stones.
Historically, Sardonyx was believed to possess protective and empowering qualities. During the Renaissance, it was worn by public speakers and orators for its supposed ability to enhance eloquence. It was also thought to help single women attract their ideal partners and to support couples in maintaining a happy marriage. These beliefs reflect the stone’s enduring role in both personal and public life throughout history.
Sardonyx was widely used in ancient jewelry and amulets, and it was particularly popular in Roman and Egyptian cultures. Today, it continues to be a valued gemstone, appreciated for its beauty and historical significance.
Spinel
Spinel, the newest of the August birthstones, was officially added to the list in 2016. This vibrant gemstone comes in a wide range of colors, including intense red, vivid pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish green. The name Spinel is derived from the Latin word “spina,” meaning “thorn,” which refers to the stone’s crystal structure.
Spinel has long been confused with other gemstones such as ruby and garnet due to its similar appearance and brilliance. However, it has its own unique charm and is now gaining recognition for its beauty and rarity. It is often used as a traditional wedding anniversary gift for the 22nd year of marriage, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
The discovery of spinel in various locations around the world, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania, has contributed to its growing popularity. Each region produces spinel with distinct colors and qualities, making it a versatile and valuable gemstone.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot
Peridot is a silicate mineral that forms in the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. It is also found in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones with an extraterrestrial origin. The color of peridot is determined by the amount of iron in its crystal structure, with higher iron content resulting in a deeper green hue.
Major sources of peridot include the United States, particularly in Arizona and Hawaii. Arizona’s San Carlos Apache Reservation is one of the most well-known sources of high-quality peridot. In Hawaii, peridot is found in volcanic sands on Papakolea Beach, where the green grains of olivine give the sand its distinctive color.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a form of quartz that is composed of fine-grained silica. It forms in sedimentary rocks and is often found in bands of alternating colors. The red bands are composed of sard, a type of chalcedony that contains iron oxide, while the white or black bands are made of onyx, which is a pure form of chalcedony.
India is the primary source of sardonyx, producing stones with excellent contrast between the different colored layers. Other notable sources include Brazil, Germany, Czechoslovakia, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the United States. The quality and appearance of sardonyx can vary depending on the location, with Indian sardonyx being particularly prized for its clarity and color contrast.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral that forms in a variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is often found in association with other gemstones such as ruby and sapphire. The color of spinel is determined by trace elements such as chromium, iron, and magnesium.
Myanmar is one of the most famous sources of spinel, particularly for its vivid red and pink varieties. Sri Lanka is another important source, producing spinel in a range of colors including blue, pink, and purple. In Vietnam, the Luc Yen region is known for producing deep red, purple, and vivid blue spinel. More recently, Tanzania has emerged as a new source of spinel, with the discovery of pinkish and orangy-red varieties in 2007.
Gemological Properties
Peridot
Peridot is a member of the olivine mineral group and is known for its single-color appearance, which ranges from yellowish green to deep green. The color variation is due to the amount of iron in its crystal structure. Peridot has a refractive index of 1.65 to 1.69 and a birefringence of 0.035 to 0.038. Its specific gravity is 3.34, and it has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, which means it is relatively durable but still requires careful handling to avoid scratches and chips.
Peridot is transparent to translucent and is often found in well-formed crystals. It does not exhibit cleavage, which makes it less prone to breaking under stress. However, it is sensitive to heat and should be avoided when cleaning or repairing jewelry.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of quartz. It is composed of alternating bands of sard and onyx, giving it a distinctive striped appearance. Sardonyx is typically translucent to opaque and has a waxy luster. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. However, like all chalcedony, it is sensitive to heat and should be cleaned with care.
The refractive index of sardonyx is approximately 1.53 to 1.54, and it does not exhibit pleochroism or fluorescence. It is often carved into cabochons or used in inlay work to highlight its banding and contrast.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral that belongs to the cubic crystal system and is composed of magnesium aluminum silicate. It is available in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish green. The color of spinel is determined by trace elements such as chromium, iron, and magnesium.
Spinel has a refractive index of 1.718 to 1.834 and a birefringence of 0.020 to 0.040. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest of the August birthstones. Spinel is transparent to translucent and has a vitreous to subadamantine luster. It does not exhibit cleavage, which makes it less prone to breaking. However, it is sensitive to heat and should be cleaned with care.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot
Peridot has long been associated with positive energy, protection, and vitality. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to ward off nightmares and bring the wearer confidence, health, and good luck. It was also considered a symbol of the sun, representing light and life. During the Middle Ages, peridot was used in religious settings to symbolize the light of divine wisdom.
Modern metaphysical beliefs continue to associate peridot with healing, emotional balance, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help release negative emotions, promote inner peace, and enhance creativity. Some people also use peridot to attract wealth and prosperity, making it a popular stone for those seeking financial success.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has been associated with strength, courage, and protection throughout history. It was believed to enhance eloquence and public speaking, making it a popular stone among orators and public figures. In ancient times, it was also thought to help single women attract their ideal partners and to support couples in maintaining a happy marriage.
Modern metaphysical beliefs attribute sardonyx with the ability to provide protection against negative energies and to enhance self-confidence. It is also believed to help with organization and focus, making it a valuable stone for those who need to stay on track with their goals.
Spinel
Spinel is a stone of passion, love, and vitality. It is often associated with emotional healing and the ability to overcome past traumas. In ancient times, it was believed to bring good fortune and to protect the wearer from harm. It was also used as a traditional wedding anniversary gift for the 22nd year of marriage, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
Modern metaphysical beliefs associate spinel with the ability to enhance courage, confidence, and self-expression. It is believed to help individuals tap into their inner strength and to overcome challenges with resilience. Some people also use spinel to attract love and to enhance relationships, making it a popular stone for those seeking romantic fulfillment.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot
Peridot is a relatively durable gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. However, it is sensitive to heat and should be avoided when cleaning or repairing jewelry. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be used with caution, as they can cause damage to the stone.
Peridot should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches. It is also advisable to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and to remove peridot jewelry before engaging in activities that may cause physical contact with the stone.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. However, it is sensitive to heat and should be avoided when cleaning or repairing jewelry. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be used with caution, as they can cause damage to the stone.
Sardonyx should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches. It is also advisable to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and to remove sardonyx jewelry before engaging in activities that may cause physical contact with the stone.
Spinel
Spinel is a very durable gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can also be used to clean spinel, as long as the stone is not heat-sensitive.
Spinel should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches. It is also advisable to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and to remove spinel jewelry before engaging in activities that may cause physical contact with the stone.
Conclusion
The birthstones of August—Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel—each have their own unique history, beauty, and symbolism. Peridot, with its vibrant green hue and storied past, is the most widely recognized of the three. Sardonyx, with its striking banding of red and white, and Spinel, with its dazzling array of colors, each offer their own charm and historical significance. Together, they represent the diverse and multifaceted nature of August's gemstone heritage.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, understanding the properties, history, and symbolism of these stones can deepen your appreciation for their beauty and significance. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that these precious stones remain radiant for generations to come.