August, the eighth month of the year, is named after Augustus Caesar, the first Emperor of Rome, and once known as Sextilis due to its position as the sixth month in the Roman calendar. It is a month rich in natural beauty and symbolic depth, celebrated not only by its birth flower—the gladiolus—but also by three distinct gemstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. These gemstones have captivated humanity for centuries, each with its own geological origin, historical significance, and cultural symbolism.
This article delves into the properties, history, and meanings of these August birthstones, offering a comprehensive guide to their allure and enduring appeal. Whether you are an August baby seeking to connect with your birthstone, a gemstone enthusiast, or a jewelry buyer, this guide provides the insights you need to appreciate these remarkable gems.
A Historical Overview of August Birthstones
The concept of birthstones is deeply rooted in ancient traditions. The earliest references can be traced to the High Priest's breastplate in the Old Testament, which featured twelve gems representing the twelve tribes of Israel. While these early stones were not assigned to months, they formed the foundation for later interpretations. By the 1st century AD, the idea of associating gemstones with months had already taken root in ancient cultures, particularly in Rome.
The modern list of birthstones was formalized in the early 20th century, with various organizations, including the American National Association of Jewelers, updating and expanding the roster. August is one of the few months with multiple birthstones. Originally, sardonyx was the sole August birthstone, but in the 20th and 21st centuries, peridot and spinel were added to the list. In 2016, the American Gem Trade Association officially recognized spinel as the third August birthstone, broadening the month's gemstone representation.
Each of these stones reflects a different era of gem appreciation. Sardonyx, with its ancient roots and historical use in Roman times, speaks to the classical world. Peridot, with its fiery green hues and volcanic origins, has a more mystical and scientific allure. Spinel, long mistaken for ruby and emerald, is the newest entrant, gaining recognition for its beauty and rarity in the 21st century.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot: The Volcanic Gem
Peridot is a variety of the mineral olivine, with the chemical formula (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄. It is one of the few gemstones that can originate both from Earth and space. The most famous peridot deposits are found in volcanic regions, where the gem is brought to the surface by magma. Notably, peridot can also be found in meteorites, making it the only gemstone that comes from outer space.
Peridot exhibits a refractive index of 1.65–1.69, a birefringence of 0.035–0.038, and a specific gravity of 3.34. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear, though it is less hard than gems like quartz or topaz. Its color ranges from yellowish green to greenish yellow, with the most valuable specimens displaying a vivid, pure green.
Significant peridot deposits are located in:
- Zabargad Island (St. John’s Island) in the Red Sea
- Arizona and New Mexico in the United States
- Nevada, where it is found in basalt lava flows
- Brazil, Mongolia, and Australia
Peridot is often found in massive deposits, and larger stones are more common than in most other gemstones. This availability contributes to its affordability and widespread use in jewelry.
Spinel: The Misunderstood Gem
Spinel is a mineral with the chemical formula MgAl₂O₄, and it forms in a cubic crystal system. It is often mistaken for ruby and sapphire due to its similar appearance and color. Spinel is typically transparent to translucent and exhibits a refractive index of 1.718, a birefringence of 0.016–0.018, and a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the harder birthstones for August.
The most striking spinel specimens come in vivid red, but the stone also occurs in pink, blue, purple, orange, and even colorless forms. The red variety, known as ruby spinel, was historically confused with ruby and was once considered more valuable.
Spinel is found in metamorphic and igneous rocks, often in association with marble or basalt. Key sources include:
- Afghanistan, historically the most important source of ruby spinel
- Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful pink and red spinels
- Myanmar (Burma), where spinel is mined in ruby-rich areas
- Madagascar, a modern source of vibrant red and blue spinels
- Vietnam, where large red spinels have been found
Spinel is relatively rare, especially in high-quality, large sizes, which has led to a growing appreciation for the gem in the 21st century.
Sardonyx: The Ancient Gemstone
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz. Its name comes from the Greek words sardion (meaning "reddish") and onyx (a type of banded agate). Sardonyx is typically composed of layers of reddish-brown or orange sard and white or pale agate, giving it a distinctive banded appearance.
Sardonyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.53 to 1.54. It is often used in carvings and cameos due to its banded structure and ease of carving.
The stone has a long history of use in ancient civilizations. It was highly prized by the Romans, who used it extensively in signet rings and amulets. Sardonyx was also used by the Egyptians, Greeks, and Etruscans in both jewelry and religious artifacts.
Important sources of sardonyx include:
- Sardinia, the island after which the stone is named
- India, particularly in the region of Rajasthan
- Brazil, a modern source of high-quality sardonyx
- Mexico, known for its orange and brown varieties
Sardonyx is durable and suitable for everyday wear, though it requires care to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or abrasive surfaces.
Gemological Properties and Identification
| Gemstone | Color Range | Hardness (Mohs) | Refractive Index | Chemical Composition | Specific Gravity | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | Yellow-green | 6.5–7 | 1.65–1.69 | (Mg,Fe)₂SiO₄ | 3.34 | Rings, pendants, earrings |
| Spinel | Red, pink, blue, purple, orange, colorless | 8 | 1.718 | MgAl₂O₄ | 3.6–4.0 | Rings, earrings, pendants |
| Sardonyx | Reddish-brown with white bands | 6.5–7 | 1.53–1.54 | Silica (SiO₂) | 2.6–2.65 | Cameos, carvings, rings |
These properties are crucial for gemologists and jewelers in identifying and valuing these stones. For example, spinel's hardness of 8 makes it ideal for rings, while sardonyx's layered structure is well-suited for intricate carvings.
Peridot, with its relatively low hardness compared to other gems, is best suited for earrings or pendants, where it is less likely to be scratched or damaged. Its high birefringence also gives it a slightly double image when viewed through the stone, a characteristic that helps distinguish it from other green gems like emerald or tourmaline.
Spinel's refractive index and lack of birefringence help differentiate it from ruby. Additionally, spinel tends to have a more saturated color and fewer inclusions than ruby, making it a desirable alternative for those seeking a vibrant red gem without the high price tag of ruby.
Sardonyx, with its banded pattern and quartz composition, is often mistaken for onyx or agate. However, its reddish-brown coloration and distinct banding are key identifiers. It is often heat-treated to enhance its color and clarity.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of August's birthstones carries its own set of symbolic and metaphysical properties, rooted in ancient beliefs and cultural traditions.
Peridot: The Stone of Renewal
Peridot has long been associated with renewal, positivity, and protection. In ancient Egypt, it was known as the "gem of the sun," believed to bring joy and ward off nightmares. The Romans used peridot in their jewelry to protect against negative energies and to promote calmness and mental clarity.
In modern times, peridot is often linked to emotional healing and the release of negative emotions. It is believed to enhance self-esteem and encourage inner peace. Peridot is also associated with prosperity and abundance, making it a popular stone for those seeking financial or personal growth.
In some traditions, peridot is considered a stone of transformation, helping individuals let go of the past and embrace new beginnings. It is also believed to have calming properties that can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Spinel: The Stone of Passion and Clarity
Spinel has historically been associated with passion, love, and vitality. In the past, ruby spinel was thought to possess the same fiery energy as ruby, and it was often used in engagement rings and romantic jewelry. Today, spinel is valued not only for its beauty but also for its emotional and spiritual properties.
Spinel is believed to enhance emotional clarity and stimulate the heart chakra, promoting love and compassion. It is also said to strengthen one's sense of identity and confidence, making it a powerful stone for those seeking personal growth. Spinel is particularly favored by those who want to express their emotions more freely and connect with others on a deeper level.
In some metaphysical traditions, spinel is also associated with healing. It is thought to support the body's natural healing processes and to help with physical ailments, particularly those related to the circulatory system.
Sardonyx: The Stone of Strength and Protection
Sardonyx has a long history of use in protective and spiritual practices. In ancient times, it was believed to offer protection from evil spirits and to provide strength and courage. It was often used in amulets and talismans to ward off negative influences.
Sardonyx is also associated with discipline and self-control. It is believed to help individuals stay focused and grounded, particularly during times of stress or uncertainty. It is a stone of resilience and endurance, helping individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
In some traditions, sardonyx is used to enhance communication and to encourage honesty and integrity. It is particularly favored by those who work in public speaking, leadership roles, or any profession that requires clear and effective communication.
Care and Cleaning for August Birthstones
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of August birthstones. Each gemstone has its own specific needs due to differences in hardness, composition, and sensitivity to chemicals.
Peridot Care
Peridot, with a hardness of 6.5–7, is relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent damage. Peridot is also sensitive to heat and sudden temperature changes, so it should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
To clean peridot, use a soft brush with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the stone. After cleaning, gently dry the gemstone with a soft cloth.
Spinel Care
Spinel, with a hardness of 8, is one of the harder August birthstones and is generally more durable than peridot. It can be cleaned using standard jewelry cleaning methods, including ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
However, it is still advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. When storing spinel, keep it away from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Spinel is relatively stable and resistant to heat, making it a good choice for everyday wear.
Sardonyx Care
Sardonyx is a durable stone with a hardness of 6.5–7, but it can be scratched by harder materials. It is also sensitive to acidic substances, so it should be kept away from household cleaners and other acidic environments.
To clean sardonyx, use a soft brush with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the stone's surface. After cleaning, dry the gemstone with a soft cloth.
Sardonyx should be stored in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches. It is also a good idea to remove sardonyx jewelry before swimming or engaging in activities that involve exposure to chemicals or abrasives.
Conclusion
The August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—offer a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and beauty. From peridot's fiery green hues and volcanic origins to spinel's vibrant colors and misunderstood legacy, and sardonyx's ancient roots and protective properties, each gemstone has a unique story to tell.
Whether you are drawn to the mystical allure of peridot, the passionate energy of spinel, or the enduring strength of sardonyx, these stones provide a meaningful connection to the past and a source of inspiration for the future. As August birthstones, they are more than just decorative gems—they are symbols of identity, transformation, and personal growth.
For those born in August, choosing a birthstone is more than a fashion choice; it is a celebration of the month's natural and cultural heritage. For gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry buyers, these stones offer a rare opportunity to own pieces that are both beautiful and historically significant.