August is uniquely distinguished among the months of the year for having three official birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Each of these gemstones carries its own rich history, cultural significance, and gemological properties, making them a compelling choice for jewelry and personal adornment. This article delves into the origins, characteristics, and symbolism of these three August birthstones, offering a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking a meaningful gift.
A Triad of Treasures
The inclusion of three gemstones for a single birth month is relatively rare in the tradition of birthstones. While most months are associated with one or two gemstones, August stands out with its trio. This diversity reflects not only the historical evolution of gemstone usage but also the modern jewelry industry’s desire to offer a broader selection of stones to suit different tastes and budgets.
The original August birthstone was sardonyx, a banded chalcedony with a history stretching back over 4,000 years. Peridot, a vibrant green gemstone, was added later due to its frequent confusion with sardonyx and its increasing popularity in jewelry. In 2016, spinel was officially recognized as the third August birthstone, expanding the options available to those born in this month and reflecting contemporary preferences for vibrant and affordable gems.
Each of these stones has its own unique allure and charm, making the August birthstones a fascinating subject for gemologists and jewelry lovers alike.
History and Lore
Sardonyx: The Ancient Gemstone
Sardonyx is the oldest of the three August birthstones, with a history that dates back to ancient civilizations. This banded chalcedony, composed of layers of sard (a reddish-brown form of quartz) and onyx (a black form of quartz), was highly valued in antiquity for its durability and aesthetic appeal.
The name "sardonyx" is derived from the Greek words "sardion," meaning "blood red," and "onyx," referring to the black bands that often appear in the stone. Ancient Greeks and Romans used sardonyx extensively in cameos, seals, and amulets. The Romans believed that sardonyx brought strength and protection, and it was often worn by warriors for courage in battle.
Sardonyx was also associated with communication and eloquence, making it a favored gemstone among politicians and orators. In the Middle Ages, sardonyx was believed to ward off evil spirits and promote mental clarity. Its enduring popularity across centuries is a testament to its historical and cultural significance.
Peridot: The Gem of the Sun
Peridot, with its radiant yellow-green hue, has been known since antiquity as the "gem of the sun." This gemstone is the green variety of the mineral olivine and is formed under extreme geological conditions. Peridot is unique in that it can be found both in the Earth's mantle and in meteorites, making it one of the few gemstones that originate from outer space.
The earliest known use of peridot dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was believed to possess healing properties and protective powers. The Egyptians called peridot the "gem of the sun" and associated it with light and vitality. They were particularly fond of peridot jewelry and often used it in religious and ceremonial contexts.
One of the most famous historical references to peridot is the Shrine of the Three Holy Kings in Cologne Cathedral. This shrine is adorned with over 200 carats of what were once believed to be emeralds, but are in fact peridots. Some historians even speculate that Cleopatra's famous emerald collection may have consisted largely of peridot.
Peridot's association with the sun and its vibrant color made it a symbol of positivity, abundance, and protection. It was also believed to bring good fortune and ward off nightmares. These historical beliefs continue to influence the modern perception of peridot as a gemstone of warmth and light.
Spinel: The Misunderstood Gem
Spinel is the youngest of the three August birthstones, having only been officially recognized in 2016. Despite its recent addition to the birthstone list, spinel has a long and fascinating history. For centuries, red spinel was mistaken for ruby, leading to many historical gems being misidentified.
Spinel is a silicate mineral that occurs in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, green, blue, and black. Its versatility and brilliance make it a popular choice in both antique and modern jewelry. The confusion between spinel and ruby was particularly common in royal and aristocratic collections, where spinel was often used as a substitute for the more expensive and rare ruby.
One notable example of spinel's historical significance is the "Black Prince's Ruby," a red gemstone set in the crown of the British monarch. For centuries, this gem was believed to be a ruby, but it was later identified as a large spinel. This discovery highlights the importance of gemological analysis in understanding the true nature of historical jewels.
Spinel's recent recognition as an August birthstone reflects the growing appreciation for its beauty and affordability. It is a gemstone that offers the same brilliance and color as more expensive stones but at a more accessible price point.
Geological Formation and Sources
Peridot: From Earth's Mantle to Outer Space
Peridot is formed under extreme conditions, typically in the Earth's mantle or in meteorites. It is one of the few gemstones that can be found both on Earth and in space. The high temperatures and pressures required for peridot to form make it a rare and unique gemstone.
On Earth, peridot is most commonly found in volcanic lava flows, where it is carried to the surface by magma. The Hawaiian Islands are a well-known source of peridot, with the gemstone being found in basaltic lava. Peridot has also been discovered in meteorites, including those that have fallen to Earth from outer space. This cosmic origin adds to the allure and mystique of peridot.
The finest peridot is typically found in Myanmar (Burma), China, and the United States. These stones are prized for their vivid green color and high clarity. The presence of iron in peridot's chemical composition is responsible for its green hue, with the intensity of the color depending on the concentration of iron.
Spinel: A Versatile and Diverse Gem
Spinel is a versatile gemstone that can form in a variety of geological environments. It is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks, as well as in alluvial deposits. The different colors of spinel are caused by the presence of various trace elements. For example, red spinel gets its color from chromium, while blue spinel is colored by cobalt.
Spinel is found in several countries around the world, including Burma, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Tanzania. Each of these locations produces spinel with unique characteristics, making it a valuable and sought-after gemstone. The recent recognition of spinel as an August birthstone has increased its popularity in the jewelry market, particularly for those seeking an affordable alternative to more expensive gems like ruby and sapphire.
Sardonyx: A Timeless Chalcedony
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz. It is formed through the slow deposition of silica-rich water in the cavities of rocks. The banded patterns in sardonyx are created by alternating layers of sard and onyx, which give the stone its distinctive appearance.
Sardonyx is found in a variety of locations around the world, including India, Brazil, and the United States. These deposits have been mined for centuries, supplying the ancient world with the gemstone that was so highly valued in antiquity. The availability of sardonyx in different parts of the world has contributed to its widespread use in jewelry and decorative objects.
The durability of sardonyx makes it an excellent choice for carved cameos and intaglios, which were particularly popular in the Roman and Victorian eras. Its ability to be carved into intricate designs has made it a favorite among artisans and jewelers.
Gemological Properties
Peridot
- Chemical Formula: (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄
- Color: Yellow-green to greenish-yellow
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6.5–7
- Refractive Index: 1.65–1.70
- Specific Gravity: 3.30–3.33
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Inclusions: Common, including small crystals and fractures
Peridot is a relatively soft gemstone compared to other colored stones, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Its yellow-green color is caused by the presence of iron in its crystal structure. Peridot is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a bright and lively appearance. However, due to its lower hardness, peridot requires careful handling and cleaning to avoid scratches and damage.
Spinel
- Chemical Formula: MgAl₂O₄
- Color: Red, pink, orange, yellow, green, blue, black
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 8
- Refractive Index: 1.718–1.724
- Specific Gravity: 3.60–4.00
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Inclusions: Rare
Spinel is a relatively hard and durable gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more resistant to scratches than peridot. Spinel is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant and fiery appearance. The different colors of spinel are caused by various trace elements, such as chromium for red and cobalt for blue. Spinel is often compared to ruby and sapphire due to its similar color range and brilliance, but it is generally less expensive and more affordable.
Sardonyx
- Chemical Formula: SiO₂
- Color: Reddish-brown and black bands
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6.5–7
- Refractive Index: 1.48–1.53
- Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous
- Transparency: Translucent to opaque
- Inclusions: Common
Sardonyx is a type of chalcedony, a form of quartz, and is composed of layers of sard and onyx. Its hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale makes it suitable for use in jewelry, particularly in carved pieces and cameos. Sardonyx is known for its banded patterns and its ability to be carved into intricate designs. It is a relatively affordable gemstone that is often used in antique and Victorian jewelry.
| Gemstone | Hardness (Mohs) | Refractive Index | Specific Gravity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | 6.5–7 | 1.65–1.70 | 3.30–3.33 |
| Spinel | 8 | 1.718–1.724 | 3.60–4.00 |
| Sardonyx | 6.5–7 | 1.48–1.53 | 2.58–2.64 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Sardonyx: Strength and Communication
Sardonyx has long been associated with strength, courage, and protection. In ancient times, it was believed to bring victory in battle and was often worn by warriors for courage and protection. It was also thought to enhance communication skills and promote eloquence, making it a favorite among politicians and orators.
In the Middle Ages, sardonyx was believed to ward off evil spirits and promote mental clarity. It was also associated with love and was used in love charms and protective amulets. Sardonyx is considered a stone of stability and grounding, helping to bring a sense of balance and security.
Peridot: Abundance and Positivity
Peridot is a gemstone of abundance, protection, and positivity. It has been used for centuries to ward off nightmares and bring good fortune. The Egyptians believed that peridot had healing properties and was a protective stone that could bring light and vitality.
Peridot is also associated with the sun and is believed to promote warmth, happiness, and optimism. It is considered a stone of transformation, helping to bring about positive changes in one's life. Peridot is also believed to enhance self-esteem and promote a sense of inner strength.
Spinel: Passion and Affection
Spinel is a gemstone of passion and affection. It is believed to promote love, romance, and emotional balance. Spinel is particularly associated with the heart and is considered a stone of emotional healing and stability.
Red spinel, in particular, is believed to be a powerful stone for love and passion. It is often used in romantic jewelry and is associated with deep emotional connections. Spinel is also believed to enhance creativity and intuition, making it a valuable stone for artists and dreamers.
Care and Cleaning
Peridot
Peridot is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, so it requires careful handling and cleaning. It is susceptible to scratches and should be kept away from harder gemstones. Peridot should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and a soft brush can be used to gently remove dirt and debris.
Avoid exposing peridot to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as this can damage the surface of the stone. Peridot is also sensitive to heat, so it should not be exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods.
Spinel
Spinel is a harder and more durable gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more resistant to scratches and damage. Spinel can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and it can also be cleaned with a soft cloth or a jewelry cleaning solution.
Spinel is generally stable and can be exposed to light and heat without significant damage. However, it should still be handled with care, especially in jewelry settings where it may come into contact with other gemstones or abrasive surfaces.
Sardonyx
Sardonyx is a relatively durable gemstone, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is suitable for use in jewelry, particularly in carved pieces and cameos. Sardonyx can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and a soft brush can be used to remove dirt and debris.
Sardonyx is also relatively stable and can be exposed to light and heat without significant damage. However, it should still be handled with care, especially in jewelry settings where it may come into contact with other gemstones or abrasive surfaces.
Conclusion
The three August birthstones—peridot, spinel, and sardonyx—each have their own unique charm, history, and gemological properties. From the vibrant green of peridot to the brilliant red of spinel and the banded patterns of sardonyx, these gemstones offer a wide range of colors, symbolism, and styles.
Peridot, with its association with the sun and its vibrant color, is a symbol of positivity and abundance. Spinel, with its brilliance and affordability, offers a beautiful alternative to more expensive gems like ruby and sapphire. Sardonyx, with its ancient history and banded patterns, is a timeless gemstone that has been cherished for thousands of years.
Whether you are drawn to the warmth of peridot, the passion of spinel, or the strength of sardonyx, these August birthstones offer a rich and diverse selection for those born in this month. Their historical significance, gemological properties, and symbolic meanings make them a fascinating subject for gemologists and jewelry lovers alike.