The month of August is celebrated with three distinct gemstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each offering a unique blend of color, history, and symbolism. Among these, peridot stands out as the most widely recognized and cherished of the trio. Known for its vibrant green hues, peridot has been a treasured gemstone for millennia, adorning jewelry, religious artifacts, and even meteorites. This article provides a detailed exploration of peridot as the primary August birthstone, along with insights into its fellow birthstones, sardonyx and spinel. Drawing from authoritative gemological sources and historical accounts, we will examine peridot's geological properties, cultural significance, and care instructions, as well as the broader context of the August birthstone tradition.
Introduction
The August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each offer a distinct visual and symbolic appeal. Peridot, in particular, is celebrated for its vivid green color, which ranges from a bright lime to a deep olive. As the official birthstone for August, peridot is believed to symbolize renewal and strength, making it a meaningful choice for jewelry and commemorative gifts. This article delves into the gemological characteristics of peridot, its historical use across different civilizations, and the modern appreciation it has garnered among jewelers and collectors. We also explore the origins and evolution of the August birthstone tradition, including the addition of sardonyx and spinel in the 20th and 21st centuries.
History and Lore
Peridot has a rich and storied history that spans centuries and continents. The word “peridot” is derived from the Arabic term faridat, meaning “gem.” In ancient times, peridot was highly valued and was used in religious and ceremonial contexts. As early as the second century BCE, peridot appeared in the jewelry of priests and was later incorporated into the chalices and churches of medieval Europe. The gemstone was also considered a protective talisman, believed to shield the wearer from evil spirits and the “terrors of the night.”
The ancient Egyptians were among the first to mine peridot, extracting it from the island of Zabargad, located in the Red Sea. This island, once known as Topazios, was a primary source of high-quality peridot. The mining conditions on Zabargad were harsh, and the island earned ominous names such as “Island of Death” and “Ophiodes” (meaning “snake island”). Despite these challenges, peridot from Zabargad was highly prized and has been preserved in prestigious museum collections around the world.
The use of peridot in jewelry and decorative arts continued through the Roman era and into the Middle Ages. In Roman times, sardonyx—another of the August birthstones—was popular for seals and signet rings due to its ability to resist the adhesion of hot wax. Sardonyx, a type of chalcedony with alternating bands of sard and onyx, was also a favored material for cameos and intaglios, showcasing the artistic skills of ancient craftsmen.
The modern tradition of birthstones was formalized in the early 20th century by the National Association of Jewelers, now known as Jewelers of America. In 1912, peridot was officially added to the list of August birthstones. This decision reflected the gemstone’s growing popularity and its increasing availability as mining techniques improved and new sources were discovered.
In 2016, the list of August birthstones was expanded to include spinel, a gemstone that had long been mistaken for ruby and other precious stones. The addition of spinel to the August lineup was intended to increase awareness of this beautiful and versatile gemstone and to provide more options for those born in August.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot is a magnesium iron silicate mineral with a chemical composition of (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. It forms in the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity or meteorite impacts. Peridot is one of the few gemstones that can be found in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial sources. Meteorites, particularly those from the Sahara Desert, contain peridot, making the gemstone truly cosmic in origin.
The most significant sources of peridot today include China, Myanmar (Burma), Pakistan, Tanzania, Vietnam, and the United States. The United States, specifically the state of Arizona, is home to Peridot Beach, where the sands shimmer with a luminous green due to the presence of peridot. This unique location is a testament to the gemstone’s natural beauty and its connection to the Earth’s geological processes.
Historically, the Egyptian island of Zabargad has been the most famous source of peridot. The island has been mined for over 3,000 years, and its peridot is known for its exceptional quality and vibrant color. The harsh conditions on the island, including its remote location and extreme climate, have made mining operations challenging, yet the gemstone produced there remains highly sought after.
A Table of Peridot Sources
| Country | Notable Features |
|---|---|
| Egypt (Zabargad Island) | Longest recorded source of peridot; historically significant; high-quality stones |
| United States (Arizona) | Peridot Beach; terrestrial source; accessible and scenic |
| Tanzania | Modern source; produces pinkish and orangy red spinel; also yields peridot in various hues |
| China | One of the largest producers; includes high-quality and affordable peridot |
| Myanmar (Burma) | Produces vibrant green peridot; known for its clarity and brilliance |
| Pakistan | Source of peridot and other gemstones; often found in volcanic regions |
| Vietnam | Emerging source; known for producing peridot with a range of green tones |
Gemological Properties
Peridot is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This places it between orthoclase feldspar and topaz, making it suitable for jewelry but requiring careful handling to prevent scratches and damage. The gemstone is also susceptible to fractures, so it should be protected from impacts and sudden temperature changes.
The refractive index of peridot ranges from 1.650 to 1.690, which contributes to its brilliance and luster. Peridot is a uniaxial gemstone, meaning it has one optic axis, and it typically exhibits a glassy to vitreous luster. The gemstone is also pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. This optical property adds to its visual appeal and makes each peridot unique.
Peridot’s color is its most distinguishing feature. It ranges from a bright lime green to a deep olive green, depending on the iron content. The most valuable and sought-after peridot is a vivid green with a slight yellowish undertone. This color is often described as a “golden green” and is considered the most desirable in the gem trade.
The cut of peridot is typically round or oval, as these shapes best showcase the gemstone’s brilliance and color. Peridot is also cut into other shapes, including marquise, pear, and cushion, depending on the design of the jewelry piece. The carat weight of peridot can vary widely, with small stones being more common and larger stones being rarer and more valuable.
A Table of Peridot’s Gemological Properties
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5–7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.650–1.690 |
| Luster | Glassy to vitreous |
| Cleavage | Perfect in one direction |
| Color | Lime green to olive green (depending on iron content) |
| Pleochroism | Yes (can show different colors from different angles) |
| Common Cuts | Round, oval, marquise, pear, cushion |
| Typical Carat Weights | Small stones are common; stones over 5 carats are rare and valuable |
| Stability | Sensitive to heat and chemicals; requires gentle cleaning and care |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Peridot has been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties across different cultures and historical periods. In ancient Egypt, peridot was believed to have protective powers and was used in amulets to ward off evil spirits and nightmares. The gemstone was also thought to bring good fortune and prosperity to its wearer.
In medieval Europe, peridot was considered a symbol of light and was often used in religious artifacts and jewelry. The gemstone was believed to have healing properties and was used in treatments for various ailments. Some sources suggest that peridot was also used as a remedy for snakebites, a belief that may have originated from the gemstone’s association with the island of Zabargad, which was known as “Ophiodes” or “snake island.”
In modern gemology, peridot is seen as a stone of revitalization and renewal. It is believed to help the wearer overcome feelings of stress and improve self-esteem. Peridot is also associated with love and emotional healing, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other sentimental jewelry pieces.
The addition of spinel and sardonyx to the August birthstone list in the 20th and 21st centuries expanded the symbolic and metaphysical meanings associated with the month of August. Spinel, with its vibrant colors and historical significance, is often seen as a stone of hope and emotional balance. It is believed to enhance the wearer’s ability to manage stress and to promote a sense of calm and well-being.
Sardonyx, with its alternating bands of sard and onyx, is associated with protection and grounding. It is believed to provide strength and stability to the wearer and to help them overcome obstacles. Sardonyx has also been used historically in Roman seals and signet rings, where it was valued for its ability to resist the adhesion of hot wax.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot, being a relatively soft gemstone, requires special care to maintain its beauty and durability. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which means it is more susceptible to scratches and fractures than harder gemstones like diamond or sapphire. Therefore, it is important to handle peridot jewelry with care and to avoid exposing it to harsh conditions.
To clean peridot, a soft, dry cloth is recommended for everyday cleaning. If more thorough cleaning is needed, warm, soapy water can be used. After cleaning, the jewelry should be rinsed with clean water and dried carefully. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone or the setting.
Peridot should also be protected from sudden temperature changes and exposure to heat. It is advisable to remove peridot jewelry before swimming, exercising, or performing household chores, as these activities can expose the gemstone to chemicals, abrasives, and physical impacts.
For larger or more valuable peridot pieces, professional cleaning and inspection are recommended at least once a year. A professional jeweler can ensure that the gemstone is clean and that the setting is secure. This is especially important for pieces with intricate settings or for those that have been passed down through generations.
Spinel, the third August birthstone, is slightly more durable than peridot, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It can be cleaned with ultrasonic and steam cleaners, although care should be taken if the gemstone has any fractures. Spinels are also stable when exposed to light and chemicals, but high heat can cause some colors to fade. Warm soapy water is a safe and effective cleaning method for spinel.
Sardonyx, being a type of chalcedony, is also relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm soapy water. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the surface of the stone. Sardonyx should also be protected from physical impacts, as it can chip or crack if subjected to excessive force.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, sardonyx, and spinel—each offer a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. Peridot, with its vibrant green color and ancient origins, has been cherished for thousands of years and continues to be a popular choice for jewelry and commemorative gifts. Its geological properties, cultural significance, and metaphysical associations make it a gemstone of enduring appeal. The addition of sardonyx and spinel to the August birthstone list in the 20th and 21st centuries has expanded the options available to those born in August, allowing them to choose a gemstone that resonates with their personality and aesthetics.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, the August birthstones offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of gemstones and their cultural significance. From the ancient mines of Zabargad to the modern jewelry collections of today, peridot and its fellow August birthstones continue to captivate and inspire.