August is a month of warmth and vitality, symbolized by the vibrant gemstones that represent it. The official August birthstone is peridot, a gemstone known for its striking green hue. However, the tradition of birthstones has expanded over time to include spinel and sardonyx as additional options for August. These gemstones not only offer a stunning array of colors and patterns but also carry rich historical and cultural significance. This article explores the geological formation, historical uses, gemological properties, symbolism, and practical care of August’s birthstones, offering a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating gemstones with the months of the year dates back to ancient times. While the modern list of birthstones was popularized in the early 20th century by the American National Association of Jewelers, many of these stones have been revered for centuries across different cultures. The practice of wearing gemstones as talismans or symbols of protection and good fortune can be traced back to the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. These ancient civilizations believed that gemstones held protective and healing properties, and many of these beliefs persist in modern times.
Peridot, the primary birthstone for August, has a long and storied history. The Romans, fascinated by its vivid green color, referred to it as the “evening emerald” because it retained its brilliance in artificial light. Peridot was also known to the ancient Egyptians, who believed it to be a gift from the sun god, Ra. They often used it in amulets and jewelry to ward off nightmares and negative influences. Sardonyx, with its bold banded patterns, was also valued by the ancients for its protective qualities and was often used in seals and rings.
Spinel, while less well-known as a birthstone, has also played a significant role in history. Often mistaken for ruby or sapphire due to its similar appearance, spinel was highly prized by royalty and aristocrats in the Middle Ages. Its vibrant colors and durability made it a popular choice for jewelry, and it was often used in royal regalia and ceremonial pieces.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of August’s birthstones has unique geological origins that contribute to their distinct properties and beauty.
Peridot
Peridot is a silicate mineral composed of magnesium and iron. It is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one color—green—due to the presence of iron in its crystal structure. Peridot forms deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. It is also found in meteorites, where it is known as olivine. The most significant sources of high-quality peridot include Arizona and New Mexico in the United States, as well as Burma (Myanmar), Pakistan, and China. These regions produce peridot in a range of green shades, from light lime to deep olive.
Spinel
Spinel is a mineral composed of aluminum and magnesium, with trace elements that determine its color. It is known for its wide range of colors, including red, pink, purple, blue, orange, and even black. The most sought-after August birthstone color in spinel is a vivid red, which can closely resemble ruby. Spinel forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is found in various parts of the world, including Myanmar, Tanzania, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka. Its versatility and brilliance make it a popular choice for jewelry.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz. It is characterized by its distinctive banded patterns, which consist of reddish-brown and white layers. Sardonyx forms in sedimentary rocks and is often found in regions with volcanic activity. The most notable sources of sardonyx include India, Brazil, and the United States. Its bold, earthy tones make it a favorite for rustic and vintage-inspired jewelry designs.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of August’s birthstones is essential for appreciating their beauty and durability.
Peridot
- Color: Peridot is always green, with shades ranging from pale lime to deep olive. The color is caused by the presence of iron in its crystal structure.
- Hardness: On the Mohs scale, peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7. This means it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones and can be easily scratched or damaged if not handled properly.
- Clarity: Peridot is often found with inclusions, which are visible to the naked eye. However, these inclusions do not detract from its beauty and can add character to the stone.
- Luster: Peridot has a vitreous (glassy) luster, which gives it a bright and lively appearance.
- Refractive Index: The refractive index of peridot ranges from 1.65 to 1.69, which contributes to its brilliance and fire.
Spinel
- Color: Spinel comes in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, purple, blue, orange, and black. The most sought-after August birthstone color in spinel is a vivid red, which can closely resemble ruby.
- Hardness: Spinel has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest and most durable of August’s birthstones.
- Clarity: Spinel is often found with high clarity, with many stones being eye-clean or containing only minor inclusions.
- Luster: Spinel has a vitreous (glassy) luster, which gives it a brilliant and sparkling appearance.
- Refractive Index: The refractive index of spinel ranges from 1.718 to 1.755, contributing to its high brilliance and fire.
Sardonyx
- Color: Sardonyx is characterized by its bold banded patterns, which consist of reddish-brown and white layers. The color variation is due to the presence of iron and silica in its composition.
- Hardness: Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but still prone to scratches and damage if not handled properly.
- Clarity: Sardonyx is typically opaque and does not display inclusions in the same way as transparent gemstones. Its banded patterns are a natural part of its composition.
- Luster: Sardonyx has a waxy to vitreous luster, which gives it a smooth and polished appearance.
- Refractive Index: The refractive index of sardonyx ranges from 1.48 to 1.53, which is lower than that of transparent gemstones but still contributes to its subtle brilliance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
August’s birthstones are not only valued for their beauty but also for their rich symbolism and metaphysical properties.
Peridot
Peridot has long been associated with joy, abundance, and emotional clarity. Ancient cultures believed that peridot had the power to ward off nightmares and negative influences. It was also believed to promote inner peace and harmony. In modern times, peridot is often used in crystal healing to help reduce stress and anxiety and to encourage personal growth and self-discovery.
Spinel
Spinel is associated with inspiration, energy, and resilience. It is believed to stimulate creativity and motivation, making it a popular choice for those seeking to overcome challenges or achieve their goals. Spinel is also thought to enhance confidence and courage, helping individuals to take bold steps in their personal and professional lives.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is known for its protective properties and is often used in jewelry to provide a sense of security and stability. It is believed to help individuals maintain balance and control in their lives, making it a valuable tool for those who are dealing with change or uncertainty. Sardonyx is also associated with strength and determination, making it a symbol of perseverance and resilience.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of August’s birthstone jewelry.
Peridot
Peridot is relatively soft and can be easily scratched or damaged if not handled properly. To care for peridot jewelry, it is important to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, acids, and extreme heat. Peridot should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. To clean peridot jewelry, use warm soapy water and a soft brush to gently remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
Spinel
Spinel is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, it is still important to care for spinel jewelry properly. Spinel should be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush to maintain its brilliance. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Store spinel jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a relatively durable gemstone but can still be scratched or damaged if not handled properly. To care for sardonyx jewelry, avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme heat. Sardonyx can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. However, it is important to note that sardonyx is porous and can absorb liquids, so it should not be submerged in water for extended periods. Store sardonyx jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
August’s birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—offer a stunning array of colors and patterns that reflect the vitality and warmth of the month. Each of these gemstones has a rich history and cultural significance, making them not only beautiful but also meaningful choices for jewelry. Understanding their geological properties, symbolism, and care requirements is essential for appreciating their beauty and ensuring their longevity. Whether worn for personal adornment or as a meaningful gift, August’s birthstones continue to captivate and inspire gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.