August is one of the few months in the birthstone calendar that offers more than one official gemstone. This diversity reflects the richness of gemological history, cultural evolution, and the practical needs of the jewelry market. The official birthstones for August are peridot, sardonyx, and spinel, each with its own unique characteristics, symbolism, and historical background. This article delves into the properties, origins, and meanings of each of these gemstones, supported by detailed data and historical context from authoritative sources.
The tradition of assigning gemstones to birth months dates back centuries, with roots in biblical and ancient cultural beliefs. Over time, the list of birthstones has evolved to reflect not only historical significance but also gem availability, consumer preferences, and the influence of scientific discovery. August’s selection of three gemstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—illustrates this evolution. While peridot has long been the most prominent among these, sardonyx and spinel were added to the official list in 2016 and 1912 respectively, broadening the options for those born in the month of August.
The August birthstones are not only valued for their aesthetic appeal but also for their symbolic meanings and historical associations. Peridot, with its vivid green hue, has been linked to the sun and is believed to bring happiness and protection. Sardonyx, known for its distinctive banded pattern, is associated with courage and strength. Spinel, though historically overshadowed by ruby and other red gemstones, has gained recognition for its brilliance and versatility in color.
In the following sections, we explore the origins, physical properties, and cultural significance of these three gemstones, drawing on data from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), historical accounts, and contemporary sources to provide a comprehensive overview of the August birthstones.
History and Lore
The historical significance of the August birthstones spans thousands of years, with each stone playing a role in different cultures and eras. Peridot, in particular, has a rich and well-documented history that dates back to ancient civilizations.
Peridot: The Ancient Sunstone
Peridot has been cherished for millennia, with archaeological evidence of its use in jewelry and amulets dating back over 4,000 years. It was a favored gem in ancient Egypt, where it was believed to have been brought to Earth by fallen stars. The gem was so highly valued that it was often used to decorate sacred artifacts and royal jewelry. In medieval Europe, peridot was associated with the sun and was believed to ward off nightmares and bring good fortune.
The name “peridot” is derived from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem.” Historically, peridot was often mistaken for emerald or topaz due to its bright green color. One notable example of this confusion is the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral, where peridot was mistakenly identified as emerald.
Peridot also has a connection to Cleopatra, whose famous emerald collection is now believed by some historians to have included peridot. This misconception highlights the gem’s visual similarity to emerald and its historical importance in royal and religious contexts.
Sardonyx: The Stone of Strength
Sardonyx, a form of onyx with distinct reddish-brown and white bands, has been used in jewelry and amulets since ancient times. The stone was particularly popular in the Roman Empire, where it was used to carve signet rings and seals. The banded pattern of sardonyx made it ideal for engraving, and it was often used to mark important documents or to serve as a personal signature in the form of a wax seal.
In medieval Europe, sardonyx was believed to offer protection from harm and to instill courage in the wearer. It was also associated with the sun and was thought to bring vitality and strength. The stone’s durability and striking appearance made it a popular choice for both practical and ceremonial purposes.
Spinel: The Underrated Gem
Spinel is a relatively recent addition to the August birthstone list, having been officially recognized in 2016. Despite its late inclusion, spinel has a long and fascinating history. It was often mistaken for ruby and other red gemstones due to its similar color and brilliance. In fact, several historical pieces believed to be rubies have been identified as spinel in modern times.
Spinel was once considered a rare and valuable gem, particularly in royal collections. It has been found in historical jewelry in India, Burma, and Thailand. The gem’s versatility in color—ranging from red and pink to blue and black—has made it increasingly popular among collectors and jewelry designers in recent years.
The addition of spinel to the August birthstone list reflects the changing dynamics of the gemstone market and the desire to provide a wider range of options for consumers. Spinel offers a brilliant, durable alternative to more traditional gemstones and has gained recognition for its beauty and affordability.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins of a gemstone provides insight into its rarity, durability, and overall value. The August birthstones are formed under different conditions and are found in various locations around the world.
Peridot: From Earth’s Mantle to the Surface
Peridot is a type of olivine, a 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 that can originate from outer space. Peridot is typically found in basaltic rocks and is often associated with areas of high volcanic activity.
The most significant sources of peridot include:
- Arizona, USA: Known for producing high-quality peridot with a vivid green color.
- Sri Lanka: A traditional source of peridot, particularly in the form of gem-quality crystals.
- Madagascar: A major modern source of peridot, supplying much of the world’s market.
- Egypt: Historically, peridot was mined from volcanic islands such as St. John’s Island in the Red Sea.
Peridot is relatively abundant, but stones with high clarity and intense green color are more valuable and sought after.
Sardonyx: The Banded Beauty
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz. It forms in sedimentary rock deposits and is characterized by alternating bands of red-brown and white. The red color is due to the presence of iron, while the white bands are composed of pure quartz.
The primary sources of sardonyx include:
- Brazil: A leading source of sardonyx, particularly in the state of Bahia.
- India: Known for producing high-quality sardonyx with distinct banding.
- Germany: Historically a significant source, with deposits in the region of Thuringia.
- United States: Sardonyx is also found in Arizona and California.
Sardonyx is relatively durable and is often used in carvings and engraved jewelry due to its hardness and ability to take a fine polish.
Spinel: A Versatile and Durable Gem
Spinel is a mineral that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is found in a variety of colors, including red, pink, orange, blue, and black. The gem is known for its brilliance and clarity, as well as its durability.
The major sources of spinel include:
- Sri Lanka: Known for producing high-quality red and pink spinel.
- Myanmar (Burma): A source of vivid red and pink spinel.
- Vietnam: Known for its blue and black spinel.
- Madagascar: A growing source of spinel in various colors.
Spinel is highly durable, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of a stone determine its appearance, durability, and suitability for use in jewelry. Each of the August birthstones has distinct characteristics that make them unique and valuable.
Peridot: The Lively Green Gem
- Chemical Composition: (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale
- Refractive Index: 1.65–1.70
- Color: Yellow-green to olive green
- Specific Gravity: 3.30–3.40
- Luster: Vitreous
Peridot is known for its vibrant green color and its ability to display a range of shades depending on the iron content. It is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, which means it is more susceptible to scratches and requires careful handling.
Sardonyx: The Striped Stone
- Chemical Composition: SiO₂
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Hardness: 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale
- Refractive Index: 1.48–1.53
- Color: Reddish-brown and white bands
- Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, and its banding pattern is one of its most distinctive features. The red color is caused by iron in the stone, while the white bands are composed of pure quartz. Sardonyx is relatively durable and can be used in a variety of jewelry applications.
Spinel: The Sparkling Gem
- Chemical Composition: MgAl₂O₄
- Crystal System: Isometric
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
- Refractive Index: 1.718
- Color: Red, pink, orange, blue, black
- Specific Gravity: 3.6–4.0
- Luster: Vitreous
Spinel is known for its brilliance and clarity. It is available in a wide range of colors, with red and pink being the most popular. Spinel is highly durable and is suitable for use in rings, pendants, and other types of jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the August birthstones has been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties across different cultures and eras.
Peridot: The Stone of Joy and Protection
Peridot is often referred to as the “stone of joy” due to its bright green color and its association with the sun. It is believed to bring happiness, positive energy, and protection to the wearer. In medieval Europe, peridot was used to ward off nightmares and was thought to have calming effects.
Peridot is also associated with prosperity and healing. It is believed to promote emotional balance and to help with stress and anxiety. In modern times, peridot is often used in crystal healing practices to support mental clarity and emotional well-being.
Sardonyx: The Stone of Courage and Strength
Sardonyx has long been associated with courage, strength, and protection. In ancient Rome, it was used as a protective amulet and was believed to help warriors in battle. The stone was also used to carve signet rings, which were used to seal important documents.
Sardonyx is believed to instill confidence and to help the wearer overcome obstacles. It is also associated with communication and is thought to enhance the ability to express oneself clearly. In modern times, sardonyx is used in crystal healing to support emotional stability and to provide protection from negative influences.
Spinel: The Stone of Vitality and Renewal
Spinel is associated with vitality, energy, and renewal. It is believed to bring a sense of balance and harmony to the wearer, particularly in times of change or transition. Spinel is also thought to promote courage and to help the wearer make decisions with confidence.
In modern crystal healing, spinel is used to support physical and emotional well-being. It is believed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and to help with conditions such as fatigue and stress. Spinel is also associated with love and passion, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of gemstone jewelry. The care requirements for the August birthstones vary based on their hardness and susceptibility to damage.
Peridot: Gentle Handling and Care
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft and can be scratched easily. It is also sensitive to heat and chemicals, so it should be handled with care.
- Cleaning: Peridot can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
- Storage: Store peridot separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft pouch or a lined jewelry box is ideal.
Sardonyx: Durable and Easy to Care for
Sardonyx is relatively durable, with a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale. It is also resistant to heat and chemicals, making it easy to care for.
- Cleaning: Sardonyx can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It can also be cleaned with a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris.
- Storage: Sardonyx can be stored with other gemstones, but it is best to keep it in a dry place to prevent any buildup of moisture.
Spinel: Resilient and Low-Maintenance
Spinel is one of the most durable of the August birthstones, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It is resistant to scratches, heat, and chemicals, making it ideal for everyday wear.
- Cleaning: Spinel can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaner.
- Storage: Spinel can be stored with other gemstones, but it is best to keep it in a dry place to prevent any buildup of moisture.
Conclusion
The August birthstone offers a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. With peridot, sardonyx, and spinel as the official gemstones for the month, August-born individuals have a wide range of options to choose from. Each of these stones has its own distinct properties, origins, and meanings, making them not only valuable in jewelry but also rich in cultural and historical significance.
Peridot, with its vibrant green color and ancient associations with the sun and protection, remains the most iconic of the three. Sardonyx, with its striking banding and long history of use in seals and amulets, offers a more traditional and earthy choice. Spinel, though a newer addition to the list, has gained recognition for its brilliance, durability, and versatility in color.
Whether you are drawn to the glowing green of peridot, the bold patterns of sardonyx, or the sparkling versatility of spinel, the August birthstone provides a meaningful and beautiful way to celebrate your birth month. These gemstones not only reflect the energy and warmth of summer but also carry with them a legacy of history, symbolism, and enduring beauty.