August, with its golden light and the promise of ripening harvests, is a month rich in natural energy and symbolism. Those born during this time are particularly blessed by the birthstone tradition, as the month of August is associated with not one, but three gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Each of these stones carries a distinct history, set of properties, and cultural significance, reflecting the diverse and dynamic spirit of those born in summer’s peak. This article delves into the geological, historical, and metaphysical attributes of each gemstone, offering a comprehensive exploration of their roles in jewelry, folklore, and gemology.
Introduction
The concept of birthstones has long been a bridge between the natural world and human culture, assigning symbolic meaning and protective properties to gemstones based on the month of one’s birth. For August, the selection includes peridot, the radiant green gem of the sun; spinel, the versatile and vibrant gem that mimics ruby; and sardonyx, the banded stone of ancient strength and balance. These stones have evolved in their recognition over centuries, with sardonyx being the oldest known August birthstone and peridot gaining official status in the 20th century. The addition of spinel in 2016 further enriched the August birthstone palette, offering a broader range of colors and qualities to suit different tastes and purposes.
This article explores the origins, properties, and meanings of each gemstone, as well as practical considerations for selecting and caring for August birthstone jewelry. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the symbolic and scientific aspects of these stones, this guide will provide a thorough and informative overview.
History and Lore
The Evolution of August Birthstones
The practice of assigning gemstones to months of the year is ancient, with roots in both Western and Eastern traditions. One of the earliest known references to birthstones comes from the Breastplate of Aaron, mentioned in the Bible, which lists 12 stones for the 12 tribes of Israel. Over time, these associations were adapted and expanded into the modern birthstone calendar.
In the early 20th century, the American National Retail Jewelers Association (now Jewelers of America) standardized the birthstone list to promote jewelry sales and consumer awareness. At that time, peridot was designated as the official August birthstone. However, as gem availability and consumer preferences evolved, spinel was added to the list in 2016, and sardonyx—which had been historically linked to August—was re-recognized as an official birthstone in some contemporary references.
This evolution reflects both practical and cultural shifts. Sardonyx, for instance, has a documented history of over 4,000 years as a gemstone associated with August, making it the oldest of the three. The Romans believed sardonyx embodied the fiery energy of summer and the balance of harvest season. Peridot, with its glowing green hue, was long considered a protective and energizing stone, often mistaken for emerald in earlier centuries. Spinel, though similar to ruby in appearance, was underappreciated for a long time and is now gaining popularity as an ethical and affordable alternative.
Cultural Significance and Symbolism
Each of the August birthstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning across different cultures and time periods.
Peridot has long been associated with the sun, light, and positive energy. Ancient Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun,” and it was believed to bring happiness, strength, and protection from nightmares. In some traditions, peridot was considered a calming stone that could soothe anger and promote mental clarity.
Spinel, often mistaken for ruby and sapphire due to its wide range of colors, was historically used as a substitute in royal and aristocratic jewelry. The vivid red varieties of spinel were particularly prized and used in crowns and regalia. In modern times, spinel is appreciated not only for its beauty but also for its ethical sourcing and durability.
Sardonyx, a banded form of chalcedony, has been valued for its protective and stabilizing properties. The Romans believed it could ward off evil and promote courage, while the ancient Greeks used it as a tool for divination. Its red and white bands symbolize the balance between action and rest, making it a fitting stone for the transition from summer to autumn.
These stones continue to be cherished today, not only for their historical connections but also for their aesthetic appeal and symbolic resonance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot: The Gem of the Mantle
Peridot is a member of the olivine mineral group and is distinguished by its vivid green color, which is due to the presence of iron. It is one of the few gemstones that can originate both from Earth's mantle and from meteorites. Peridot is commonly found in volcanic rocks and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Notable sources include:
- Arizona (United States): The San Carlos Apache Reservation is a major source of fine peridot.
- Sri Lanka: Known for producing high-quality, bright green peridot.
- Nigeria: A significant producer of large peridot crystals.
- Madagascar: A growing source of peridot with a wide range of hues.
Peridot is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it suitable for everyday jewelry with proper care. It is also thermally stable and can be treated to enhance its color, though untreated peridot is typically the most valuable.
Spinel: The Forgotten Noble Gem
Spinel is a mineral composed of magnesium aluminum silicate, with its coloration determined by trace elements like chromium (which produces red), iron (which yields brown), and cobalt (which results in blue). The most prized spinel is the red variety, which can closely resemble ruby. Spinel is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is mined in several parts of the world:
- Burma (Myanmar): The source of some of the finest red spinel.
- Afghanistan: Known for producing vibrant rubellite spinel.
- Tanzania: A newer source of high-quality spinel.
- Vietnam: Has recently become a significant producer of blue and pink spinel.
Spinel has a Mohs hardness of 8, making it one of the harder gemstones in the August birthstone category. It is also highly durable and resistant to scratches, making it an excellent choice for rings and other frequently worn jewelry.
Sardonyx: The Banded Stone of Strength
Sardonyx is a form of chalcedony, a type of microcrystalline quartz, that features alternating bands of red and white. The red color comes from iron oxide, while the white is due to the quartz matrix. Sardonyx is typically found in sedimentary rocks and is mined in several regions:
- India: A major historical and contemporary source of sardonyx.
- Brazil: Known for producing vibrant, well-banded sardonyx.
- United States: Some sardonyx is mined in the western states, particularly in California and Arizona.
- Europe: Sardonyx has been historically mined in Germany, Russia, and Italy.
Sardonyx has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, similar to peridot. It is relatively hard and durable but can be sensitive to harsh chemicals and should be cleaned gently. It is also known for its ability to hold intricate carvings and engravings, making it a popular stone for cameos and intaglios.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Color Range | Mohs Hardness | Chemical Composition | Refractive Index | Common Sources | Treatments Commonly Used |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Yellow-green to olive green | 6.5–7 | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ | 1.65–1.70 | Arizona, Sri Lanka, Nigeria | Heat treatment |
| Spinel | Red, pink, blue, black | 8 | MgAl₂O₄ | 1.718–1.735 | Burma, Afghanistan, Vietnam | Heat treatment |
| Sardonyx | Red and white bands | 6.5–7 | SiO₂ (quartz + iron oxide) | 1.48–1.53 | India, Brazil, United States | Dyeing |
Peridot
- Color: The most common and valuable peridot is a vibrant yellow-green, but it can also appear in olive green or even brownish tones depending on iron content.
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but not as tough as spinel or sapphire.
- Luster: Vitreous (glassy).
- Transparency: Usually transparent to slightly translucent.
- Specific Gravity: 3.34–4.55, depending on iron content.
- Cleavage: Peridot has perfect cleavage in one direction, which can make it prone to chipping if struck in the wrong place.
Spinel
- Color: Spinel is available in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, blue, and black. The red and blue varieties are the most prized.
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale, which is relatively high and makes it suitable for all types of jewelry.
- Luster: Vitreous to subadamantine.
- Transparency: Typically transparent.
- Specific Gravity: 3.99–4.10.
- Cleavage: Spinel has no cleavage, making it a very durable stone.
Sardonyx
- Color: Characterized by alternating red and white bands. The red is due to iron oxide, and the white is from the quartz base.
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Waxy to dull, depending on the finish.
- Transparency: Usually opaque to translucent.
- Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64.
- Cleavage: No cleavage, but it can be brittle if carved too thin.
These gemological properties make peridot, spinel, and sardonyx each uniquely suited for different types of jewelry and uses. Peridot's vibrant color and relative affordability make it a popular choice for everyday wear, while spinel's durability and range of colors make it a versatile gemstone. Sardonyx, with its banded appearance, is ideal for carved cameos and engraved pendants.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot: The Gem of Light and Positivity
Peridot has long been associated with the sun, light, and positive energy. In ancient times, it was believed to bring happiness, strength, and protection from nightmares. It was also thought to have the power to calm anger and promote mental clarity. Some cultures considered peridot a stone of good luck, and it was often worn to ward off negative emotions and attract positive energy.
In modern metaphysical practices, peridot is considered a stone of manifestation and abundance. It is said to help release negative thought patterns, promote emotional healing, and encourage self-confidence. Its bright green color is also associated with the heart chakra, symbolizing love, compassion, and emotional balance.
Spinel: The Stone of Passion and Clarity
Spinel is often linked to passion, vitality, and emotional clarity. The red varieties of spinel are particularly associated with courage, vitality, and a strong emotional connection. In some traditions, spinel is believed to help with communication, especially in relationships, and is thought to encourage open and honest expression.
Blue spinel, on the other hand, is associated with calmness, intuition, and spiritual insight. It is believed to help with mental focus and emotional balance, making it a useful stone for meditation and spiritual practices. Spinel is also considered a protective stone, believed to shield the wearer from negative energies and promote inner strength.
Sardonyx: The Stone of Protection and Balance
Sardonyx is one of the oldest known August birthstones and has a long history of being used for protection and balance. The ancient Romans believed sardonyx could ward off evil and promote courage. It was also used as a tool for divination and was thought to bring good fortune in battle and in the hunt.
In modern metaphysical practices, sardonyx is considered a grounding and stabilizing stone. It is believed to help with emotional balance, promote discipline, and support personal goals. It is also associated with the sacral chakra, which governs creativity, emotional well-being, and personal power. Sardonyx is often used to support those undergoing major life changes or transitions.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of August birthstone jewelry. Each gemstone has unique properties that affect how it should be cleaned and handled.
Peridot
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7, which means it is relatively durable but can still be scratched.
- Cleavage: Peridot has perfect cleavage in one direction, making it prone to chipping if struck in the wrong spot.
- Cleaning: Use mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steamers, as these can damage the stone or weaken its setting.
- Storage: Store peridot separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Spinel
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest August birthstones.
- Cleavage: No cleavage, which means it is less prone to chipping.
- Cleaning: Spinel can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are also safe for most spinel varieties.
- Storage: Spinel can be stored with other hard gemstones, but it should be kept in a soft pouch to prevent scratches.
Sardonyx
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7, which is relatively hard but not as durable as spinel.
- Cleavage: No cleavage, but it can be brittle if carved too thin.
- Cleaning: Use mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can dull the surface or damage the stone.
- Storage: Store sardonyx separately from harder gemstones and in a dry place to prevent moisture damage.
By following these care tips, you can ensure that your August birthstone jewelry remains beautiful and valuable for years to come.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—are a testament to the rich history, cultural significance, and scientific beauty of gemstones. Each stone has its own unique properties, symbolism, and geological origins, making them a perfect representation of the month of August. Whether you're drawn to the radiant green of peridot, the vibrant sparkle of spinel, or the earthy strength of sardonyx, these gemstones offer something truly special for those born in this sunny, spirited month.
As birthstone traditions continue to evolve, these stones remain a popular choice for jewelry and personal adornment, cherished for their beauty and meaning. Whether you're looking for a meaningful gift or a treasured keepsake, the August birthstones offer a wonderful way to connect with the energy, warmth, and strength of summer.