August is a month distinguished by a remarkable diversity of birthstones, a legacy shaped by historical traditions, cultural influences, and geological occurrences. Unlike months associated with a single gemstone, August boasts a selection including peridot, spinel, sardonyx, and, historically, moonstone, topaz, ruby, and even diamond. This article will explore the origins, properties, and significance of these stones, focusing primarily on peridot, spinel, and sardonyx as the most commonly recognized August birthstones.
History and Lore
The association of gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, evolving from religious texts and cultural beliefs to the formalized lists of the 20th century. The tradition reflects a desire to imbue each month with unique symbolism and protective qualities. While the modern list is relatively recent, the stones themselves have long histories.
Sardonyx holds the longest recorded history of the August birthstones, utilized by ancient Greeks and Romans in crafting seals, signet rings, and amulets. Warriors believed wearing sardonyx, often engraved with depictions of heroes and gods, would grant them strength and courage. This stone was considered a source of protection, good fortune, and strong relationships.
Peridot’s history is equally rich, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt around 1500 BCE. Discovered on the island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, the Egyptians called it “the gem of the sun,” inspired by the Arabic word “faridat” meaning gem. It enjoyed popularity in ancient Europe and Rome, though its prominence later waned with the increased availability of emeralds. More recently, the resurgence of interest in semi-precious stones has revitalized peridot’s appeal.
Spinel, while not as deeply rooted in ancient lore as peridot or sardonyx, has gained recognition for its beauty and rarity. Its historical confusion with ruby and sapphire contributed to its understated yet significant presence in royal jewelry and collections.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of these August birthstones occurs through diverse geological processes. Peridot originates deep within the Earth, often brought to the surface through volcanic activity. A notable example is the 2018 eruption of Hawaii’s Kilauea volcano, which ejected peridot crystals, resulting in a “rain of gems” and the creation of Papakolea Beach, a unique green sand beach composed largely of peridot. Major sources of peridot today include China, the United States (particularly Arizona), and Myanmar.
Sardonyx, a variety of chalcedony, forms in sedimentary environments. It is characterized by its banded structure, composed of alternating layers of sard (reddish-brown chalcedony) and onyx (typically white). Key sources include India, known for its intricately engraved pieces, as well as Brazil and Uruguay. Within the United States, sardonyx and similar banded agates can be found in Oregon, Montana, and Michigan.
Spinel forms in metamorphic rocks, often associated with marble and other high-grade metamorphic environments. While generally rarer than peridot, high-quality spinel, particularly in red or blue hues, can be quite valuable.
Gemological Properties
Each of these August birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties. Sardonyx is a microcrystalline variety of quartz, exhibiting a waxy luster and a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7. Its defining characteristic is its banded appearance, making each piece unique.
Peridot, a gem variety of olivine, typically presents in shades of green, ranging from yellowish-green to brownish-green. It has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it suitable for jewelry but requiring careful handling.
Spinel, a magnesium aluminum oxide, boasts the highest hardness among the three, ranking between 7.5 and 8 on the Mohs scale. This contributes to its durability and suitability for various jewelry settings. Spinel occurs in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, green, orange, blue, and black.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Luster | Key Characteristic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sardonyx | SiO₂ (Chalcedony) | 6.5 - 7 | Waxy | Banded layers of sard and onyx |
| Peridot | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ (Olivine) | 6.5 - 7 | Vitreous | Green color, often yellowish-green |
| Spinel | MgAl₂O₄ | 7.5 - 8 | Vitreous | Wide range of colors, high durability |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Sardonyx was believed to bring good fortune and strengthen relationships, offering protection and courage to its wearer.
Peridot, the “gem of the sun,” was associated with protection and was thought to ward off illness. It was also believed to offer protection and was linked to feminine energy and intuition.
Spinel, while lacking the extensive historical symbolism of peridot and sardonyx, is often associated with revitalization and renewal. Its vibrant colors are believed to inspire passion and creativity.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their varying hardness levels, these August birthstones require different care approaches. Sardonyx, with its lower hardness, is susceptible to scratches and should be protected from abrasive materials. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.
Peridot, also with a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7, requires gentle cleaning. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone. Warm, soapy water and a soft brush are recommended.
Spinel, being the most durable of the three, can withstand more rigorous cleaning. However, it is still advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. A soft brush and warm, soapy water are sufficient for maintaining its brilliance.
Conclusion
The August birthstones – peridot, spinel, and sardonyx – represent a fascinating intersection of history, geology, and symbolism. From the ancient Egyptians’ reverence for peridot to the protective qualities attributed to sardonyx and the vibrant beauty of spinel, these gemstones offer a diverse range of options for those born in August. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or perceived metaphysical properties, these stones continue to captivate and inspire. The abundance of choice reflects the rich tapestry of influences that have shaped the significance of these stones across time.