August is represented by a remarkable trio of birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each with a unique history, set of gemological properties, and cultural significance. Together, these stones offer a rich tapestry of meaning and beauty, making August a month celebrated not only for its warmth and vitality but also for the allure of its gemstone heritage.
This article delves into the geological formation, historical usage, symbolic meanings, and practical care of these three gemstones, providing a comprehensive overview suitable for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry collectors, and students of gemology.
The Historical Journey of August Birthstones
Peridot: The "Sunstone" of Ancient Egypt
Peridot, with its vibrant green hues, has been cherished for millennia. Known in ancient Egypt as the "gem of the sun," it was believed to be a gift from the sun god, Ra. The Egyptians mined peridot at night, convinced it absorbed the sun’s energy and released it during the dark hours. This belief highlights the early mysticism and reverence associated with the gemstone.
The mineral is found in volcanic regions, often in lava flows that brought it to the surface from deep within the Earth’s mantle. Notably, peridot has also been found in meteorites, lending it the intriguing title of a "space gem." Some of the finest peridot specimens originate from Arizona in the United States, as well as from Pakistan and China.
The peridot stone was once misidentified as topaz or emerald, and historical records show that some of the stones in the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Germany’s Cologne Cathedral were thought to be emeralds but were later identified as peridot. This misidentification persisted for centuries, underscoring the gemstone's complexity and allure.
Peridot was also used in religious contexts. In the Bible, it was referred to as chrysolite, and some scholars believe that it was among the stones on the breastplate worn by Aaron, the brother of Moses. Additionally, in Hawaiian culture, peridot is said to be the tears of Pele, the goddess of volcanoes and elements.
Sardonyx: The Royal Stone of Ancient Empires
Sardonyx is one of the oldest known birthstones and was recognized as the original August birthstone. This banded gemstone, composed of reddish-brown and white layers, was highly valued in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Roman soldiers wore sardonyx engraved with images of heroes or deities to gain courage before battle, believing the stone brought protection and strength.
The name sardonyx derives from the combination of "sard," a reddish-brown chalcedony, and "onyx," a layered form of quartz. This reflects the stone’s distinctive striped appearance. Sardonyx was also considered a symbol of happiness in marriage and was used in protective amulets. In some traditions, it was believed to ward off infectious diseases and the bites of venomous creatures, particularly scorpions.
Christian theologians viewed sardonyx as a symbol of spiritual strength, and it was believed that dreams featuring the stone signified a deep love for friends. According to the mystic Emanuel Swedenborg, sardonyx represented the "love of good and light," reinforcing its positive connotations.
Sardonyx was extensively used in ancient jewelry and seals, often carved into intricate designs. Its durability and visual appeal made it a favorite among royalty and high-ranking individuals, earning it the title of a "royal stone."
Spinel: The Overlooked Gem Reclaiming Its Place
Spinel is the most recent addition to the August birthstone list, officially recognized in 2016. This gemstone was often mistaken for ruby in the past due to its deep red color. The name "spinel" comes from the Latin spina, meaning "thorn," a reference to the pointed shape of its natural crystals.
Spinel comes in a wide range of colors including red, pink, purple, blue, orange, and black. Its hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale makes it suitable for everyday wear. The gem is found in various locations around the world, including Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania.
Spinel’s rich history is marked by its misidentification. For centuries, many red spinel stones were labeled as rubies, particularly in royal collections. One notable example is the "Black Prince’s Ruby," which is actually a red spinel. This gemstone was mounted on the crown of King Charles I of England and is now part of the British Crown Jewels.
Spinel has now gained recognition as a distinct and valuable gemstone, appreciated for its brilliance and affordability compared to ruby. Its inclusion as an August birthstone reflects a growing appreciation for its beauty and rarity.
Geological Formation and Sources of August Birthstones
Each of the August birthstones is formed through distinct geological processes and is found in specific regions around the globe.
Peridot: From Volcanic Lava to Meteorites
Peridot is a nesosilicate mineral, composed primarily of magnesium and iron in the form of olivine. It forms under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions in the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Peridot can also be found in meteorites, a rare and fascinating occurrence that has earned it the nickname "space gem."
Major sources of peridot include Arizona (United States), Pakistan, and China. These regions provide some of the most vibrant and valuable peridot specimens. The clarity and color of peridot are influenced by its iron content, with higher iron concentrations resulting in deeper green tones.
Sardonyx: Banded Beauty from Chalcedony
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz. It forms in sedimentary rocks and is characterized by its banded patterns of reddish-brown and white. The reddish-brown bands are due to the presence of iron, while the white bands are composed of pure silica.
Sardonyx is found in various parts of the world, including India, Brazil, Germany, Uruguay, and the United States. These regions have long histories of sardonyx mining and use. The gemstone’s durability and striking appearance made it a popular choice for ancient seals, amulets, and jewelry.
Spinel: A Versatile and Colorful Mineral
Spinel is a mineral composed of magnesium aluminum silicate and is found in both igneous and metamorphic rocks. It forms in a cubic crystal system and exhibits a wide range of colors depending on trace elements. Red spinel, for example, gets its color from chromium, while blue spinel is due to cobalt.
Spinel is found in several countries, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania. These regions produce some of the finest and most colorful spinel specimens. The gemstone’s hardness and brilliance make it an excellent choice for both jewelry and collectors.
Gemological Properties of August Birthstones
Understanding the physical and optical properties of gemstones is essential for both collectors and jewelry designers. The following table summarizes the key gemological characteristics of the August birthstones.
| Property | Peridot | Sardonyx | Spinel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Yellow-green to deep olive | Banded red, brown, white, orange | Red, pink, purple, blue, orange, black |
| Chemical Composition | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ (Olivine) | SiO₂ (Chalcedony) | MgAl₂O₄ |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic | Trigonal (Chalcedony) | Cubic |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5–7 | 6.5–7 | 7.5–8 |
| Refractive Index | 1.65–1.70 | 1.48–1.53 | 1.718–1.722 |
| Common Sources | Arizona, Pakistan, China | India, Brazil, Germany, Uruguay, USA | Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | Translucent | Transparent to translucent |
These properties influence the gemstone’s suitability for different types of jewelry and its care requirements. For instance, peridot, with a hardness of 6.5–7, is relatively soft and may require more careful handling than spinel or sardonyx.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each August birthstone carries unique symbolic and metaphysical associations, reflecting the cultural and spiritual beliefs of various societies.
Peridot: Prosperity and Protection
Peridot has long been associated with prosperity, good fortune, and peace. Ancient Egyptians believed it brought happiness and protected against nightmares and evil spirits. In some traditions, it was worn on the left hand to guard health and vitality.
The gemstone’s warm, luminous glow made it a favorite among ancient priests, who used goblets encrusted with peridot to connect with their gods. In modern times, peridot is still valued for its positive energy and is believed to promote optimism and personal growth.
Sardonyx: Strength and Stability
Sardonyx is a symbol of grounded strength and stability. It was believed to bring courage to Roman soldiers and to attract lasting happiness in love and marriage. The stone was also associated with protection from illness and venomous creatures.
Christian theologians viewed sardonyx as a symbol of spiritual strength and the love of good and light. In some cultures, it was used in legal matters to attract success and attract friends.
Spinel: Passion and Clarity
Spinel is often associated with passion and clarity. Its vibrant red varieties symbolize love and courage, while blue spinel is linked to calmness and wisdom. The gemstone was historically mistaken for ruby and was used in royal collections, which reflects its association with power and prestige.
Spinel is also believed to enhance one's energy and emotional balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking inner strength and resilience.
Care and Cleaning of August Birthstones
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of August birthstones. Each gemstone has specific requirements based on its hardness, cleavage, and sensitivity to environmental factors.
Peridot
- Hardness: 6.5–7 (relatively soft)
- Cleavage: Perfect in one direction
- Care Tips: Avoid exposure to hard knocks and extreme temperatures. Clean with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Use a soft cloth for drying. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steamers, as they can damage the stone.
Sardonyx
- Hardness: 6.5–7
- Cleavage: None (but can be brittle)
- Care Tips: Sardonyx is more durable than peridot but still requires gentle handling. Clean with warm water and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Spinel
- Hardness: 7.5–8 (very durable)
- Cleavage: None
- Care Tips: Spinel is one of the most durable August birthstones. It can be cleaned with warm water, mild detergent, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally safe to use. Store in a soft cloth or padded container to avoid scratches.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each offer a unique blend of beauty, history, and symbolism. From the sun-kissed green of peridot to the banded elegance of sardonyx and the vibrant colors of spinel, these gemstones have captivated people for centuries.
Peridot, with its ancient roots in Egyptian and Hawaiian culture, continues to be a symbol of prosperity and protection. Sardonyx, the original August birthstone, brings strength and stability, while spinel, once mistaken for ruby, is now recognized as a gem in its own right.
For those born in August, these gemstones offer more than just aesthetic appeal—they are imbued with meaning, history, and personal significance. Whether chosen for their color, symbolism, or rarity, the August birthstones are a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones in human culture.