August is one of the few months in the birthstone calendar to feature three distinct gemstones, each with its own unique color, symbolism, and historical significance. The official August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—offer a vibrant palette of options for jewelry lovers and those seeking meaningful adornments for August birthdays. Together, these gemstones represent a blend of vitality, courage, and protection, making them more than just decorative stones. This article delves into the physical, historical, and cultural dimensions of these August birthstones, drawing from expert and historical sources to present a comprehensive overview.
History and Lore
The history of the August birthstones is as rich and varied as the stones themselves. Peridot, the most well-known of the three, has been cherished for thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, it was known as the "Evening Emerald" and was believed to possess protective qualities. Egyptian pharaohs prized peridot, and miners have extracted it for millennia. The gem was often mistaken for an emerald due to its rich green hue. The name "peridot" comes from the Arabic word "faridat," meaning gem. This August birthstone was valued in many ancient and medieval cultures, and it is even speculated that Cleopatra’s famous emerald collection may have been composed of peridot.
Sardonyx, another of the August birthstones, has a history that dates back more than 4,000 years. It is a banded chalcedony marked by its layered red-brown and white stripes. This gemstone was highly regarded in ancient times for its protective and grounding properties. Sardonyx has been associated with strength, courage, and stable relationships. Its earthy, vintage-style appearance makes it a popular choice for those who appreciate its historical roots and symbolic meaning.
Spinel, the third and more recently added August birthstone, has a fascinating history of its own. For centuries, red spinel was mistaken for ruby, and it was not until more recent times that its true identity was recognized. Spinel is a versatile gemstone that comes in a range of colors, including deep red, vivid pink, orange, blue, and black. It has been found in royal collections and is now appreciated for its brilliance and durability. Spinel offers a high-energy stone for renewal, inspiration, and grounding, and it has become a popular choice for modern jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of the August birthstones has a distinct geological formation and origin. Peridot is the yellowish green to greenish yellow gem variety of the mineral olivine. It is formed under extreme conditions and can be found in the hardened lava that carried it from deep within Earth’s mantle. Peridot is also found in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones that have traveled from outer space. The most significant sources of peridot include the Red Sea island of Zabargad (also known as Topazios), Myanmar, and the United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico.
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a form of quartz that is characterized by its fine-grained structure and waxy luster. It is formed through the deposition of silica-rich solutions in rock cavities and fissures. The banding in sardonyx is a result of periodic changes in the mineral composition and color of the silica solution during the stone’s formation. The primary sources of sardonyx are India, Brazil, and Mexico, where it is mined for both industrial and decorative purposes.
Spinel, a mineral composed of magnesium aluminum silicate, is formed in metamorphic and igneous rocks. It is found in a variety of colors, each of which is determined by trace elements within the crystal structure. The most valuable spinels are the deep red and vivid pink varieties, which are caused by the presence of chromium or vanadium. The most significant sources of spinel include Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam. These deposits have yielded some of the finest examples of spinel, including the famous "Black Prince’s Ruby," which is actually a large red spinel.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of peridot, sardonyx, and spinel distinguish them from one another and make each suitable for different types of jewelry and settings.
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively durable but not as hard as some other gemstones. Its refractive index ranges from 1.65 to 1.69, and it has a vitreous (glassy) luster. Peridot is typically cut in a brilliant or mixed style to enhance its color and brilliance. The most desirable color for peridot is a vivid lime green to olive green. Peridot is also pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, similar to peridot. It has a waxy luster and a refractive index of approximately 1.53 to 1.54. Sardonyx is usually cut in a cabochon or step style to showcase its banding and color contrast. The stone is often used in intaglios and cameos due to its ability to take a fine polish and its contrasting colors.
Spinel has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it harder and more durable than peridot and sardonyx. It has a refractive index of 1.718 to 1.736 and a vitreous luster. Spinel is typically cut in a brilliant or round style to maximize its brilliance and fire. The most valuable spinels are those with a high saturation of color and excellent clarity. Spinel is also known for its excellent toughness and resistance to chipping, making it suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with peridot, sardonyx, and spinel have been passed down through generations and continue to be relevant in modern times.
Peridot is often referred to as the "sun gem" due to its warm, luminous appearance. It is believed to bring light, abundance, and renewal to those who wear it. In ancient times, peridot was thought to protect against nightmares and bring happiness and strength to the wearer. It is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to support healing and joy. Peridot is a popular choice for those seeking to release negative patterns and open their hearts to love.
Sardonyx is known for its grounding and protective properties. It is believed to support strength, courage, and stable relationships. In ancient times, sardonyx was used as a protective amulet and was thought to bring stability and success in endeavors. It is also associated with the root chakra and is believed to provide a strong foundation for emotional and physical well-being. Sardonyx is a popular choice for those who seek to enhance their personal power and maintain harmonious relationships.
Spinel is a versatile gemstone that is associated with renewal, inspiration, and vitality. It is believed to restore energy and inspire hope, making it a popular choice for those going through difficult times. Spinel is also associated with the heart and solar plexus chakras and is believed to support emotional balance and personal growth. It is a popular choice for those seeking to restore their inner fire and find inspiration in their daily lives.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of peridot, sardonyx, and spinel. Each gemstone has specific requirements based on its hardness and sensitivity to heat, light, and chemicals.
Peridot, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, is relatively soft and can be scratched by harder materials. It is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures. To clean peridot, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
Sardonyx, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, is similar to peridot in terms of durability. It is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures. To clean sardonyx, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can dull the stone's luster.
Spinel, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, is harder and more durable than peridot and sardonyx. It is also more resistant to heat and can be exposed to higher temperatures without damage. To clean spinel, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Spinel can also be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner, but it is best to consult a professional jeweler to ensure the stone is cleaned properly.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—offer a vibrant and diverse selection of gemstones that are cherished for their beauty, history, and symbolic significance. Each stone has its own unique characteristics and properties, making them suitable for different types of jewelry and personal adornment. Peridot is a bright and uplifting gemstone that is associated with light, abundance, and renewal. Sardonyx is a grounding and protective stone that supports strength, courage, and stable relationships. Spinel is a versatile and vibrant gemstone that is associated with renewal, inspiration, and vitality. Whether you are drawn to the brilliance of peridot, the grounding energy of sardonyx, or the vibrant colors of spinel, these August birthstones are a testament to the enduring appeal of gemstones and their ability to connect us to our history, culture, and personal journey.