August presents a rich selection of birthstones, offering a spectrum of color and symbolism. While Peridot is most commonly recognized as the August birthstone, Spinel and Sardonyx also hold significance for those born in this month. These gemstones, each with its unique history and properties, represent abundance, protection, courage, and remembrance. This article will explore the origins, characteristics, and lore surrounding these three captivating gems.
History and Lore
The month of August itself is steeped in history, originally named Sextilis by the Romans before being renamed in honor of Emperor Augustus Caesar. This historical connection lends a sense of imperial grandeur to the month and its associated stones. Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx have each played roles in various cultures throughout history, accumulating layers of meaning and belief.
Peridot’s history stretches back to ancient times. During the Renaissance, it was favored by public speakers and orators, believed to bestow eloquence upon its wearer. It was also thought to aid in attracting a spouse and fostering a happy marriage. Ancient legends attribute protective qualities to Sardonyx, suggesting that placing it in the four corners of a property would ward off evil. This stone was particularly valued by ancient Greeks and Romans, who used it in amulets, cameos, and seals, believing it brought victory in battle and enhanced communication skills.
Spinel, while a more recent addition to the list of August birthstones, also boasts a rich past. Its name originates from the Latin word "spina," meaning thorn, referencing its crystal structure. Historically, Spinel was often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its similar color range, and it remains a traditional gift for a 22nd wedding anniversary.
Beyond the gemstones themselves, the August birth flower – the gladiolus and the poppy – contribute to the month’s symbolism. The gladiolus, named for its sword-like leaves, was associated with Roman gladiators and represents strength and love. The poppy, particularly the red variety, is a symbol of remembrance, originating from ancient practices of offering the flower to the deceased and continuing in modern observances like Memorial Day. Different colors of poppies carry varied meanings, with yellow signifying prosperity, purple representing enchantment, and white symbolizing consolation.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot derives its color from the iron content within the volcanic grounds where it is most often found. The sources for Spinel are diverse, spanning Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Pakistan. Myanmar is particularly renowned for producing Spinel in arresting colors like hot pink and red, while Sri Lanka yields blue, pink, and purple varieties, often found in the rolling hills of the Central Highlands and river gravels of the Ratnapura District. Northern Vietnam’s Luc Yen region is also a significant source, producing Spinel in deep red, purple, pink, vivid blue, violet, and violet-blue hues. Tanzania has more recently become known for pinkish and orangy-red Spinel discoveries, dating back to 2007.
Sardonyx’s origins are not specifically detailed in the provided sources, but its historical use suggests widespread availability in ancient times.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is characterized by its distinctive yellow-green hue, ranging from pale lime green to a richer olive shade. Its color remains consistent under various lighting conditions due to the presence of iron in its composition.
Spinel presents a remarkable range of colors, including intense red, vivid pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish-green. This variety contributes to its appeal and often leads to its misidentification as other gemstones.
Sardonyx symbolizes strength, courage, and protection. The sources do not provide specific details on its chemical composition or other gemological properties.
The provided sources do not offer a comparative table of gemological properties like hardness or refractive index for these stones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
A common thread uniting the August birthstones is their association with protection from evil. Regardless of which stone an August-born individual chooses, the sources suggest a shared quality of safeguarding against harm.
Peridot is linked to fortune and prosperity, while Sardonyx is believed to shield one’s home from negative influences and promote courage and happiness. Spinel is thought to have a soothing influence and aid in reconciling differences.
The August birth flowers also carry symbolic weight. The poppy, in Western culture, is a poignant symbol of remembrance, while the gladiolus represents strength and love. The varying colors of poppies further enrich their symbolism, with red signifying remembrance and happiness, yellow representing prosperity, purple embodying enchantment, and white offering consolation.
Care and Cleaning
The sources offer limited guidance on the care and cleaning of these gemstones. However, given Peridot’s composition and the general properties of gemstones, careful handling and regular cleaning with mild soap and water are recommended. Specific care instructions for Spinel and Sardonyx are not provided.
Conclusion
August’s birthstones – Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx – offer a captivating blend of history, symbolism, and geological beauty. From the protective qualities attributed to each stone to the rich lore surrounding their origins, these gems provide a meaningful connection to the month of August and the individuals born within it. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, their historical significance, or their perceived metaphysical properties, these vibrant stones represent strength, remembrance, and a touch of imperial grandeur.