August, the month of summer’s peak and the cusp of autumn, is symbolically rich with color, warmth, and energy. For those born in this vibrant period, the tradition of birthstones offers a beautiful way to connect with the essence of the season. August is unique in that it boasts three officially recognized birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each with its own distinct history, symbolism, and gemological characteristics. Among these, peridot holds the most prominent position as the primary August birthstone, though the inclusion of spinel and sardonyx adds depth and diversity to the tradition.
This article delves into the origins, properties, cultural significance, and care instructions of these three August birthstones, with a particular focus on peridot as the official gem. Drawing from historical records, geological insights, and cultural traditions, we explore how these stones have shaped human history, adorned royalty, and continued to captivate gemstone lovers today.
A Historical Journey Through August’s Birthstones
The Ancient Roots of Sardonyx
Of the three August birthstones, sardonyx is the most ancient. Its use dates back over 4,000 years, with archaeological evidence of sardonyx being carved into seals and amulets by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. The stone was highly valued for its bold red and white banding, which was believed to represent the balance between the fiery intensity of summer and the cooler transitions of fall.
The Romans associated sardonyx with strength, courage, and protection, making it a popular choice for warriors and leaders. Its durability and striking appearance made it ideal for engraving, and it was often used in signet rings and ceremonial objects. Sardonyx remained a symbol of honor and resilience throughout antiquity, and its association with the month of August reflects the season’s own duality—full of energy and also poised for change.
The Rise of Peridot as the Official August Birthstone
Peridot’s journey to becoming the primary August birthstone is a more recent development. By the 20th century, the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) had established a more standardized list of birthstones, and peridot was officially recognized as the August birthstone in 1912. This decision was likely influenced by the gem’s vibrant green color, which aligns with the lushness of summer, and its historical and cultural significance across multiple civilizations.
The Ancient Egyptians, in particular, were great admirers of peridot. They referred to it as the “Evening Emerald” due to its brilliant green color that shone especially well under moonlight. Peridot was also believed to have protective properties—warding off nightmares and evil spirits—and was often set into rings and amulets for its calming and grounding energy.
The Modern Addition of Spinel
The most recent addition to the August birthstone family is spinel, which was officially recognized in 2016. This relatively recent designation reflects a growing appreciation for spinel’s beauty, rarity, and versatility. Spinel, often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its similar appearance and refractive properties, was historically misclassified and undervalued. However, with the advancement of gemological science and increased awareness among jewelers and collectors, spinel has gained its rightful place among the August birthstones.
Spinel comes in a wide range of colors, including vivid reds, pinks, oranges, and even blue and black. Its inclusion in the August birthstone list offers a broader palette for jewelry design and personal expression.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot: A Gem from the Earth’s Mantle
Peridot is chemically a silicate of magnesium and iron, with the mineral formula Mg₁₋ₓFeₓSiO₄, where x ranges between 0 and 1 depending on the iron content. This iron content is what gives peridot its green color, with higher iron concentrations producing deeper, more intense hues.
Unlike most gemstones that form in the Earth’s crust, peridot is formed deep within the Earth’s mantle, under intense heat and pressure. It is often brought to the surface through volcanic activity, where it can be found in xenoliths—fragments of the mantle carried up by magma. In rare cases, peridot has even been found in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones with an extraterrestrial origin.
Commercial peridot is primarily mined in Arizona, Pakistan, and China, with Arizona being known for producing some of the highest quality peridot due to its light, vibrant green color and clarity. The gemstone is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, which makes it suitable for jewelry but requires careful handling to avoid scratches and fractures.
Spinel: A Diverse and Resilient Gem
Spinel is a magnesium aluminum oxide, with the chemical formula MgAl₂O₄. It occurs in a wide range of colors due to trace elements such as chromium, iron, and cobalt. The most famous and valuable color is red spinel, which can rival the beauty of ruby.
Spinel forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks, often in marble deposits where it can be found alongside corundum and other gemstones. It is typically harder than peridot, with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it more durable and suitable for daily wear in jewelry. Spinel is found in Burmah (Myanmar), Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Madagascar, with each region producing distinctive color variations.
Sardonyx: A Banded Agate with Ancient Appeal
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline quartz, and is composed of sard and onyx. It is characterized by its distinctive bands of red and white, with the red portion coming from iron oxide impurities and the white from pure silica.
This gemstone is geologically stable, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, and is often used in carved seals, rings, and pendants. Sardonyx is found in Brazil, India, and the United States, and has been historically prized for its durability and ability to hold intricate carvings.
Gemological Properties of August Birthstones
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of the three official August birthstones, based on the data from the provided sources:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color Range | Hardness (Mohs) | Transparency | Origin of Formation | Common Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Magnesium iron silicate | Yellow-green to olive green | 6.5–7 | Transparent | Earth's mantle (volcanic) | Arizona, Pakistan, China |
| Spinel | Magnesium aluminum oxide | Red, pink, orange, blue, black | 8 | Transparent | Metamorphic/igneous rocks | Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam |
| Sardonyx | Microcrystalline quartz | Red and white banded chalcedony | 6.5–7 | Translucent | Sedimentary/thermal processes | Brazil, India, USA |
These properties determine how each stone is best used in jewelry, what kind of care it requires, and its overall durability and appeal.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun and the Heart
Peridot has long been associated with light, warmth, and positive energy. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to be a gift from the sun god Ra, and it was often used in amulets and talismans to bring prosperity, happiness, and protection. The gem was also thought to ward off nightmares, and many ancient texts mention its use in bedtime jewelry.
In modern metaphysical traditions, peridot is considered a stone of transformation and renewal. It is believed to help release negative emotions, promote calmness, and encourage personal growth. Those born in August are often encouraged to wear peridot to balance their emotions, attract abundance, and enhance their inner strength.
Sardonyx: The Stone of Courage and Stability
Sardonyx has historically been associated with courage, protection, and grounding. The Romans believed it could ward off negative influences, and it was often worn during battles or important negotiations. The stone’s red and white bands were seen as a symbol of action and rest, making it a powerful aid in decision-making and emotional balance.
In modern times, sardonyx is valued for its ability to strengthen willpower and self-discipline. It is also believed to help overcome fears and build confidence, making it an excellent stone for those who are embarking on new ventures or facing challenges.
Spinel: The Stone of Passion and Vitality
Spinel, especially in its red and pink varieties, is often associated with passion, love, and vitality. It is believed to stimulate the heart chakra, promoting emotional healing and connection. Red spinel, in particular, is considered a stone of strength and courage, and is often used in meditation and energy work.
Spinel is also believed to enhance creativity and intuition, making it a popular choice for artists, healers, and spiritual practitioners. Its inclusion in the August birthstone list allows those born in this month to choose a stone that resonates with their inner fire and emotional depth.
Care and Maintenance of August Birthstones
Peridot
Due to its relatively low hardness (6.5–7), peridot requires gentle care to avoid scratches and damage. It is not recommended to clean peridot with ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone. Instead, mild soap and warm water are sufficient for regular cleaning.
Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and abrasive materials, and store peridot separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Spinel
Spinel is harder and more durable than peridot, with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it suitable for daily wear. It can be cleaned with ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, or mild soapy water.
However, it is still wise to remove spinel jewelry before engaging in physical activities or exposure to harsh chemicals, as even durable stones can be chipped or scratched under extreme conditions.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is relatively durable, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7, and can be cleaned with mild soap and water. However, it is not recommended to use steam or ultrasonic cleaners on sardonyx, as the stone’s banding and porosity may make it susceptible to damage.
To maintain its luster and clarity, store sardonyx in a soft cloth or separate compartment to prevent scratches from harder gemstones.
Conclusion
The August birthstone tradition offers a unique and rich tapestry of gemological, historical, and cultural significance. While peridot is the primary August birthstone, the inclusion of spinel and sardonyx adds depth, variety, and versatility to the selection. These three stones reflect the energy, warmth, and transition of August, and each carries its own distinct meaning, beauty, and power.
Whether you are drawn to the vibrant green of peridot, the bold banding of sardonyx, or the versatile brilliance of spinel, there is a perfect gemstone to represent your August birth month. These stones not only serve as ornamental treasures but also as symbols of personal strength, renewal, and protection.
By understanding their properties, origins, and symbolism, you can select a gemstone that resonates with your spirit and style, and carry its energy and beauty with you for a lifetime.