August is a month rich in natural beauty and warmth, and its three birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—reflect this with their vibrant colors and storied histories. These gemstones have captivated cultures across millennia, from ancient civilizations to modern collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. Each possesses a unique set of gemological characteristics, historical associations, and symbolic meanings that contribute to their enduring appeal. This article delves into the origins, properties, and cultural significance of these three August birthstones, offering a comprehensive guide for those interested in gemology, jewelry design, or the deeper meanings behind these natural treasures.
History and Lore
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot is the yellow-green gem variety of the mineral olivine, and its history is as vibrant as its color. This gem has been admired since ancient times and has often been mistaken for other stones due to its striking resemblance to emerald and topaz. The name "peridot" is derived from the Arabic word faridat, meaning "gem." One of the most notable historical examples of peridot being misidentified is the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral, where what was once believed to be emerald is now known to be peridot.
Peridot was especially valued in medieval cultures and was thought to offer protection against nightmares and bring strength and happiness to the wearer. The Red Sea island of Topazios, which gave its name to the gem topaz, was actually a source of peridot. This gem’s unique formation—often found in meteorites and volcanic lava—adds to its mystique and scientific interest.
Peridot has also been linked to royalty and power. Historians speculate that Cleopatra’s famed emerald collection may have actually been made up of peridot, underscoring the gem’s historical importance and its ability to rival other precious stones in beauty and desirability.
Sardonyx: The Ancient August Birthstone
Sardonyx is the oldest of the August birthstones and has been used for thousands of years. It is a type of chalcedony, composed of alternating bands of sard (a reddish-brown chalcedony) and onyx (a white or black chalcedony). Sardonyx was highly favored in the Roman Empire, particularly for signet rings and seals. Its smooth surface made it ideal for engraving, and it was commonly used to stamp wax for official documents and correspondence. The stone was also believed to offer protection and was thought to help with decision-making and courage.
Its historical use as a seal stone indicates its significance in both personal and official matters, suggesting that sardonyx was valued not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its functional role in ancient communication.
Spinel: The Underappreciated Gem
Spinel is the youngest of the three August birthstones to gain widespread recognition. Once mistaken for ruby and other red gems, spinel was often undervalued and misclassified. In recent decades, however, the gem has gained popularity, particularly among those seeking alternatives to traditional red stones like ruby. Spinel comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, blue, and even colorless, with red and pink being the most prized for jewelry.
The discovery of vivid blue and deep red spinel in Vietnam and Tanzania in the late 20th century sparked renewed interest in the gem. These vibrant colors, combined with spinel’s durability and brilliance, have made it a favorite among contemporary jewelers and collectors.
Spinel has been used in royal jewelry collections for centuries, and some of the most famous "rubies" in European crown jewels are actually red spinel. Its resurgence as a respected gemstone reflects both its beauty and the growing appreciation for lesser-known but equally captivating stones.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of the August birthstones has a distinct geological origin and is found in specific locations around the world.
Peridot: From Earth’s Mantle to Meteorites
Peridot is formed 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 be traced back to outer space. The gem is typically found in volcanic regions and is often referred to as "volcanic glass" due to its formation in rapidly cooled magma.
Significant sources of peridot include the United States (particularly in Arizona), China, and the Red Sea islands. The gem's formation in such extreme conditions gives it a unique composition and luster, making it both scientifically and aesthetically fascinating.
Sardonyx: The Banded Chalcedony
Sardonyx is a form of chalcedony, a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz. It is formed when layers of sard and onyx band together over time. The reddish-brown sard and white or black onyx create the distinctive patterns that make sardonyx so visually appealing. This gem is commonly found in deposits of chalcedony and is often mined in India, Brazil, and the United States.
Its banded structure makes it ideal for carving and engraving, which explains its historical use in seals and signet rings. Sardonyx is also known for its durability, making it a practical choice for jewelry that can be worn daily.
Spinel: A Durable and Diverse Gem
Spinel is formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks, typically in pegmatite or marble deposits. It is found in several countries, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania. The gem’s hardness—8 on the Mohs scale—makes it highly durable and suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications, from rings to pendants.
The discovery of vivid blue and deep red spinel in Vietnam in the 1980s and 2000s has made the country a key player in the spinel market. These discoveries have also led to a greater appreciation for the gem’s versatility and beauty.
Gemological Properties
Each of the August birthstones has its own unique set of gemological properties that affect its appearance, durability, and suitability for different types of jewelry.
Peridot
- Color: Yellow-green to deep olive green
- Clarity: Typically transparent
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 6.5–7
- Chemical Formula: MgFeSiO₄
- Luster: Vitreous (glassy)
- Origin: Volcanic regions
Peridot’s warm green color and moderate hardness make it a popular choice for rings and pendants. However, its lower hardness means it can be more susceptible to scratches and damage compared to harder gemstones like sapphire or diamond.
Sardonyx
- Color: Red-brown and white bands
- Clarity: Often opaque or semi-transparent
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 6–7
- Chemical Formula: SiO₂
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous
- Origin: Chalcedony deposits
Sardonyx is a durable stone that can be carved into intricate designs. Its banded appearance makes it ideal for engraved rings and seals. While it is not as transparent as other gemstones, its opacity is part of its charm and utility.
Spinel
- Color: Red, pink, blue, colorless
- Clarity: Often transparent to semi-transparent
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 8
- Chemical Formula: MgAl₂O₄
- Luster: Vitreous
- Origin: Pegmatite and marble deposits
Spinel is one of the most durable August birthstones, making it an excellent choice for rings and bracelets. Its wide range of colors allows for great versatility in jewelry design. Red and pink spinel are particularly popular for their vibrant hues and affordability compared to other red gems like ruby.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the August birthstones carries its own set of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties, which have been passed down through various cultures and eras.
Peridot
Peridot has long been associated with the sun and its life-giving energy. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to protect against nightmares and bring happiness and strength to the wearer. The gem was also thought to bring prosperity and was often used in amulets and talismans.
In more modern times, peridot is seen as a stone of renewal and healing. It is believed to promote emotional balance and to encourage a positive outlook on life. Peridot is also associated with the heart chakra and is thought to help open the heart to love and compassion.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx has been used for protection and courage since ancient times. In Roman times, it was believed to help with decision-making and to provide a sense of calm and clarity in difficult situations. It was also thought to protect the wearer from harm and to help them remain grounded and focused.
In some cultures, sardonyx is associated with the root chakra and is believed to help with issues of stability, security, and personal power. It is also thought to help with communication and to encourage honesty and integrity.
Spinel
Spinel is a relatively new player in the world of metaphysical gemstones, but it has quickly gained popularity. It is believed to enhance vitality and to promote a sense of balance and harmony in the body and mind. Red and pink spinel are associated with the heart and root chakras and are thought to help with emotional healing and personal strength.
Blue spinel is linked to the throat and third eye chakras and is believed to enhance communication and intuition. It is also thought to help with mental clarity and to encourage creativity and inspiration.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of any gemstone. The care instructions for the August birthstones vary depending on their hardness and susceptibility to damage.
Peridot
Peridot has a moderate hardness (6.5–7 on the Mohs scale), which means it can be scratched by harder gemstones. It is also sensitive to heat and can lose its color if exposed to high temperatures. To clean peridot, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the gem.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a durable stone with a hardness of 6–7 on the Mohs scale. It is generally easy to clean and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the surface of the stone. Sardonyx is also relatively stable and does not fade with exposure to light.
Spinel
Spinel is one of the hardest August birthstones, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It is stable and can be cleaned with ultrasonic or steam cleaners. However, if the gem has any fractures or inclusions, warm soapy water is the safest option. Spinel can be exposed to light and chemicals without fading or losing its luster.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—offer a rich blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the fiery red of spinel to the warm green glow of peridot and the banded elegance of sardonyx, these gemstones reflect the energy, warmth, and strength of the summer season. Their geological origins, cultural significance, and gemological properties make them not only valuable as jewelry but also as symbols of personal meaning and connection.
Whether you are drawn to the vibrant colors, the deep history, or the metaphysical properties of these gemstones, the August birthstones offer something for everyone. By understanding their origins and characteristics, you can appreciate these natural wonders on a deeper level and choose the perfect gemstone to honor those born in August.