August is a month rich in natural energy and warmth, and it is fitting that those born in this month have the privilege of choosing from three remarkable gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Each of these stones carries a unique set of properties, meanings, and historical significance that reflect the vibrant essence of summer. Together, they form a diverse and captivating collection of August birthstones, each with its own story to tell.
The Official August Birthstone
The official August birthstone is peridot, a gemstone celebrated for its refreshing green hue and protective energy. Known as the “gem of the sun” in ancient times, peridot is associated with light, abundance, and renewal. It is often referred to as the “Evening Emerald” due to its striking green color, which is similar to that of emerald, though with a more vibrant and lively tone. Peridot’s historical significance is profound, with ancient cultures such as the Egyptians valuing it for its protective qualities.
In addition to peridot, modern jewelers also recognize spinel and sardonyx as alternative August birthstones. Spinel, with its wide range of colors including deep reds, hot pinks, and even rare blues, offers a bold and dynamic choice for those who prefer a more vibrant palette. Sardonyx, with its earthy, banded appearance, brings a sense of stability and grounding energy to the mix. Each of these stones contributes to the rich tapestry of August's birthstone tradition, offering unique benefits for healing, beauty, and personal growth.
History and Lore
The history of the August birthstones is as rich and varied as the stones themselves. Peridot, in particular, has a long and storied past. The ancient Egyptians were among the first to prize peridot, using it in jewelry and religious artifacts. They believed that the stone could protect against nightmares and bring happiness and strength to the wearer. The island of Zabargad in the Red Sea, known as the “Island of Death” and “Ophiodes” (meaning “snake island”), was a significant source of peridot. The harsh conditions on this island earned it such ominous names, but the peridot found there has been prized for centuries and remains highly desirable today.
Peridot has also been associated with the Earth’s mantle and even meteorites. Some of the finest peridot specimens have been found in meteorites, particularly pallasite meteorites, which contain nickel-iron and olivine. This connection to the cosmos adds a mystical allure to the stone, with some believing it carries the energy of the Earth's core and cosmic vibrations.
Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, has a history that dates back over 4,000 years. It was used in ancient Egypt and Greece, where it was valued for its protective and grounding properties. Sardonyx was believed to offer protection to warriors and was often worn during battle. In the Roman Empire, sardonyx was highly prized and used in signet rings and other forms of jewelry. The stone's banded appearance, with its alternating bands of red and white, was thought to symbolize courage and strength, making it a popular choice for those seeking stability and resilience.
Spinel, while not as ancient as peridot or sardonyx, has a rich history that has only recently come to light. For centuries, red spinel was mistaken for ruby, a gemstone with a much higher value. However, as gemologists and jewelers began to recognize the unique properties of spinel, its popularity grew. Today, spinel is appreciated for its brilliance and variety of colors, making it a versatile and modern choice for August-born individuals.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is formed under extreme conditions, often found in the hardened lava that carries it from deep within the Earth’s mantle. It is also found in meteorites that have traveled from outer space. The most notable sources of peridot include the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona, where volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago created the conditions necessary for peridot to form. Arizona is a significant source of high-quality peridot, with some Apache families having worked the mines for decades. Another important source is Myanmar, where the finest-quality peridot with deep color and superb transparency can be found in the mountainous region near Mogok.
Zabargad, an island in the Red Sea, is another historic source of peridot. The island has been mined for peridot since ancient times, and the peridot found there is known for its exceptional quality. The harsh conditions on the island, however, made mining a dangerous and challenging endeavor, earning the island its ominous reputation.
Spinel is found in various parts of the world, including Burma (Myanmar), Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. It is formed in metamorphic rocks and is often found in association with other gemstones. The discovery of large, high-quality spinel crystals has increased its popularity in recent years, making it a sought-after gemstone for both collectors and jewelry designers.
Sardonyx is a type of onyx that is characterized by its distinct banding of red and white. It is primarily found in Brazil, India, and the United States. The stone is formed in sedimentary rocks and is often mined in large quantities. Its durability and affordability make it a popular choice for a variety of jewelry designs, from rings to pendants.
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine and is known for its bright green color, which ranges from yellow-green to deep olive-green. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. This means that peridot requires special care to avoid scratches and damage. It is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures. Peridot is typically transparent to translucent and has a vitreous luster. Its refractive index ranges from 1.65 to 1.70, and it does not exhibit pleochroism, meaning it does not show different colors when viewed from different angles.
Spinel is a mineral that comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, blue, and black. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than peridot. Spinel is known for its brilliance and clarity, with a refractive index of 1.718 to 1.755. It is also known for its lack of pleochroism, which means it displays a consistent color regardless of the viewing angle. Spinel is often used in fine jewelry due to its durability and beauty.
Sardonyx is a type of onyx that is characterized by its banded appearance. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is composed of silica in the form of chalcedony. The red bands are due to the presence of iron, while the white bands are composed of quartz. Sardonyx is often used in carvings and engraved jewelry, and it is known for its durability and affordability. It has a waxy luster and is often used in cameo and intaglio work.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the August birthstones carries its own set of symbolic and metaphysical properties. Peridot is associated with positivity, joy, and abundance. It is believed to open the heart chakra, inviting abundance and joy into the wearer’s life. It is also thought to have protective qualities, warding off negativity and bringing happiness and strength to the wearer. Peridot is a stone of renewal and is often used in meditation and healing practices to promote emotional balance and mental clarity.
Spinel is associated with renewal, inspiration, and vitality. It is believed to have high energy and is often used to restore energy and inspire hope. Spinel is also thought to be a stone of encouragement, providing support during difficult times. It is a versatile gemstone that can be used for a variety of purposes, from enhancing creativity to promoting emotional healing.
Sardonyx is associated with grounding and protection. It is believed to provide stability and courage, making it a popular choice for those who need support in their personal and professional lives. Sardonyx is also thought to promote stable relationships and is often used in jewelry to symbolize commitment and loyalty. Its earthy appearance and grounding energy make it a popular choice for those seeking a sense of security and stability.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of August birthstones. Peridot, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7, requires special attention to avoid scratches and damage. It should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and ultrasonic cleaners should be used with caution. Peridot is sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures, making it unsuitable for steam cleaning. It is also not recommended for daily wear in rings due to its relative softness.
Spinel, with a hardness of 8, is more durable and can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. It is also safe to use an ultrasonic cleaner, though steam cleaning should be avoided. Spinel's durability makes it a good choice for everyday wear, but it should still be handled with care to avoid any potential damage.
Sardonyx, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7, requires similar care to peridot. It should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and ultrasonic cleaners can be used with caution. Sardonyx is more durable than peridot and can be worn daily, but it should still be protected from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures to maintain its appearance and longevity.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each offer a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. Peridot, with its vibrant green color and protective energy, is a gemstone of light and renewal. Spinel, with its diverse range of colors and high energy, is a versatile and inspiring choice. Sardonyx, with its earthy grounding energy, provides stability and courage. Together, these stones reflect the warmth and vitality of August, making them a perfect choice for those born in this month. Whether worn for their beauty, their historical significance, or their metaphysical properties, the August birthstones continue to captivate and inspire gemstone enthusiasts around the world.