Children's birthstone jewelry has become a meaningful and popular tradition in many cultures, allowing young individuals to connect with the symbolic and historical significance of their birth month's gemstone. These pieces, often crafted in delicate designs such as stud earrings, are not only beautiful but also carry a rich history and cultural importance. This article explores the July and August birthstones—specifically the ruby and peridot—based on their representation in children’s sterling silver and gold jewelry, as highlighted in the available sources. We will examine their historical significance, gemological properties, and the symbolism that has been associated with them across time.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning gemstones to each month of the year dates back centuries, with roots in ancient civilizations that attributed magical and protective properties to stones. The July and August birthstones are no exception, with their meanings and uses evolving over time.
The ruby, July’s birthstone, is one of the most revered gemstones in history. Known as the “king of gems,” rubies have been cherished for their deep red color and rarity. In ancient times, rubies were believed to bring protection, vitality, and prosperity. They were often worn by royalty and warriors, who believed the stone would grant them courage in battle. The ruby’s association with life and energy has made it a powerful symbol in many cultures, including those in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Peridot, the August birthstone, has a more varied history. Some sources suggest that peridot was discovered in ancient Egypt, where it was referred to as the “evening emerald” due to its green color and its tendency to glow in the dark. The gemstone was also believed to ward off nightmares and was often carried by sailors for protection on their journeys. During the Victorian era, peridot gained popularity as a gemstone for jewelry, particularly for its affordability and vibrant color.
The use of these gemstones in children’s jewelry is a modern adaptation of these ancient traditions. By introducing children to their birthstones at an early age, parents and guardians help foster an appreciation for the beauty and symbolism of gemstones, creating a personal and meaningful connection that can last a lifetime.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological formation of the ruby and peridot is as fascinating as their historical significance. Understanding how these gemstones are formed and where they are found provides insight into their rarity and value.
The ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). What makes a corundum a ruby is the presence of trace amounts of chromium, which gives the stone its characteristic red color. Rubies are typically formed under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth's crust, often in metamorphic rocks such as marble. The most famous ruby deposits are found in Myanmar (formerly Burma), which has been a primary source of high-quality rubies for centuries. Other notable ruby-producing countries include Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
Peridot, on the other hand, is a magnesium iron silicate (Mg₁₋ₓFeₓSiO₄), and it forms in the Earth’s mantle, where it is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Peridot is known for its vivid green color, which is caused by the presence of iron in its chemical composition. It is one of the few gemstones that can be found in a single color—green—across all levels of quality. The most famous source of peridot is the island of Zabargad, located in the Red Sea. Other significant sources include Arizona in the United States, China, and Russia.
The availability of these gemstones in children's jewelry is influenced by their sources and the methods used to mine and process them. The ruby’s rarity and the peridot’s abundance make them both suitable for use in affordable and elegant designs, particularly in silver and gold settings that are appropriate for children.
Gemological Properties
To fully appreciate the beauty and durability of children’s birthstone earrings, it is important to understand the gemological properties of the ruby and peridot. These properties include hardness, color, clarity, cut, and refractive index, all of which contribute to the stone’s appearance and suitability for jewelry.
The ruby ranks 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making it one of the hardest gemstones after diamond. This high hardness ensures that rubies are resistant to scratches and abrasions, making them ideal for everyday wear, including in children’s jewelry. However, despite its hardness, the ruby can still be damaged if subjected to extreme impacts or high temperatures. Its refractive index ranges from 1.76 to 1.78, allowing it to display a brilliant sparkle when properly cut. The ruby’s color is primarily determined by the concentration of chromium, with the most valuable stones exhibiting a deep, vivid red known as "pigeon blood."
Peridot has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it less durable than the ruby. While it is still suitable for jewelry, it is more susceptible to scratches and requires careful handling. Peridot’s refractive index ranges from 1.65 to 1.69, giving it a bright, glassy luster. The gemstone’s color can vary from yellow-green to deep green, with the most valuable stones exhibiting a rich, saturated green. Unlike the ruby, peridot does not have any inclusions or fractures that significantly affect its clarity, as it is typically free of internal flaws.
Both gemstones are commonly cut into round shapes for children’s earrings, as this style is versatile and enhances the stone’s brilliance. The ruby’s deep red color and the peridot’s vibrant green make them ideal choices for simple, elegant designs that highlight the natural beauty of the stones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
In addition to their physical properties, the ruby and peridot carry deep symbolic and metaphysical significance. These beliefs, rooted in history and culture, have contributed to the enduring popularity of these gemstones in jewelry.
The ruby has long been associated with passion, love, and vitality. In ancient times, it was believed to be a symbol of the sun and was thought to bring warmth and energy to the wearer. The ruby was also considered a stone of protection, particularly for warriors and leaders. In modern times, the ruby is often used to represent love and commitment, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other romantic jewelry. Some metaphysical traditions suggest that the ruby can enhance confidence, courage, and self-esteem, making it a powerful stone for personal growth and empowerment.
Peridot, with its calming green color, is often associated with balance, harmony, and renewal. It is believed to have a soothing effect on the mind and emotions, making it a popular stone for those seeking peace and tranquility. In some traditions, peridot is thought to promote healing and rejuvenation, both physically and emotionally. It is also believed to have protective qualities, particularly for those who travel or spend time away from home. The gemstone’s association with the sun and light has also led to its use in rituals and ceremonies focused on positivity and clarity.
These symbolic and metaphysical properties make the ruby and peridot ideal choices for children’s jewelry. By wearing their birthstone, children can develop a sense of connection to these ancient traditions and learn to appreciate the deeper meanings behind the gemstones they wear.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of children’s birthstone earrings. Because children may not always handle jewelry with the same level of care as adults, it is important to follow specific guidelines to ensure the stones remain in good condition.
The ruby, being one of the hardest gemstones, is relatively durable and can withstand regular wear. However, it is still important to avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners or chlorine, which can damage the stone or its setting. To clean ruby earrings, use a soft cloth and a mild soap and water solution. Gently wipe the stone and setting, then rinse with clean water and pat dry. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone or the metal setting.
Peridot requires more careful handling due to its lower hardness. It is important to store peridot earrings in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches from harder gemstones or metal surfaces. When cleaning peridot, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can dull the stone’s luster. Instead, use a soft cloth and a mild soap and water solution to gently clean the surface. After cleaning, pat the stone dry with a clean, soft cloth to avoid water spots.
In addition to regular cleaning, it is important to inspect children’s birthstone earrings periodically for signs of wear or damage. If the setting becomes loose or the stone appears to be loose within the setting, it is best to have the jewelry inspected by a professional jeweler. Prompt attention to any issues can help prevent further damage and ensure the earrings remain safe and beautiful for years to come.
Conclusion
Children’s birthstone earrings, particularly those featuring the ruby and peridot, offer a beautiful and meaningful way to introduce young individuals to the world of gemstones. These stones, with their rich histories, unique gemological properties, and symbolic meanings, provide a lasting connection to tradition and personal identity. By understanding the significance of these gemstones, their geological origins, and the proper care they require, parents and guardians can ensure that children’s birthstone jewelry remains a cherished part of their lives. Whether worn as a symbol of protection, a source of inspiration, or simply for their beauty, these gemstones carry a legacy that spans generations.